After a brief run as a recording-only project based in Austin, founding vocalist David Yow, bassist David Wm. Sims and guitarist Duane Denison relocated to Chicago, Illinois in 1989, finding kindred spirits in recording engineer Steve Albini and the Touch and Go Records imprint. With the addition of drummer Mac McNeilly, they began operating as a live band, expanding their following beyond Chicago's alternative scene into an international audience. Drummer Jim Kimball replaced McNeilly late in 1996, and was himself replaced by Brendan Murphy two years later.
Despite releasing a split single with leading alt-rockers Nirvana and signing to Capitol Records, the band failed to find commercial success amid the alternative rock explosion of the 1990s, and disbanded in 1999. Their reunion from 2008 to 2010 and following tour enjoyed positive responses from audiences and critics.
In October 2013, The Jesus Lizard were set to play at the All Tomorrow's Parties event Release the Bats in Melbourne, Australia. They cancelled this show due to "unforeseen circumstances."
Members:
David Yow - vocals;
Duane Denison - guitars;
David Wm. Sims - bass;
Mac McNeilly - drums.
Former members:
Jim Kimball - drums;
Brendan Murphy - drums.
http://www.thejesuslizard.net
Whirl
The Jesus Lizard Lyrics
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But I want to
The Jesus Lizard's song "Whirl" is a short, brutish burst of noise rock from the band's 1991 album "Goat". The song clocks in at just over a minute and a half and features David Yow's trademark manic vocals, squealing guitar riffs, and pummeling rhythms. The lyrics are sparse but suggestive, with Yow imploring the listener to "get undressed" while also expressing hesitation with the line "but I want to." The meaning of the song is open to interpretation, but some have speculated that it could be about temptation, desire, or even sexuality.
Overall, the song is a perfect representation of The Jesus Lizard's intense and abrasive sound, which was heavily influenced by punk, noise, and post-hardcore. The band's music was known for its physicality and aggression, with Yow's confrontational stage presence adding to the sense of chaos and danger in their live shows. "Whirl" is a prime example of this approach, with the band barreling through the song at breakneck speed and Yow's vocals reaching a fever pitch as he repeats the same two lines over and over.
Line by Line Meaning
Get undressed
Let go of your outer layers, release your inhibitions
But I want to
Despite any hesitations, I desire to see you bare and vulnerable
Contributed by Ruby J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.