Sounds of Asteroth: Avant garde cabaret-style group with a show that connects via skilled musicianship and theatrical flair.


The Players: Martin Von Sexy, vocal stylings, tambourine; Gabriel Von Lead, lead guitar; Rich Von Rythme, rhythm guitar; Sir Von Top, bass guitar; Just-In-Time, drums, beat master; Cherry Nova, backup singer; Cotton Candy, backup vocals.

Material: Dark and brooding at times, funky and flashy at others, Sounds of Asteroth run the musical gamut. Using an avant garde caba-ret approach to both songwriting and performance this group ties together disparate musical genres to create a unified sound. Despite the reliance on performance, the compositions are strong enough to exist as strictly aural works. However, to fully appreciate what this group of mavericks has to offer, one must engage in the complete experience.


Musicianship: There is a high level of musicianship in this band. The focal point is Martin Von Sexy, whose surprisingly deep vocals and charismatic stage presence command attention despite the myriad of musical, and non-musical, activity taking place across the stage. The backup vocals of Cherry Nova and Cotton Candy add an intriguing subtlety, as well as contrast, to Von Sexy's lead. The two-pronged guitar attack of Von Lead and Von Rythme is balanced by the drumming by Just-In-Time and the bass grooves of Sir Von Top, who especially shine on the funkier numbers.


Performance: At first impression, Sounds of Asteroth was a chaotic mess of sights and sounds. But, it quickly became evident that this group is in fact a well-orchestrated cabaret show. Ultimately, it was impossible to separate the performance from the music.


Summary: Quintessentially a live act, Sounds of Asteroth exists at the intersection of music and performance art. This is an eye-opening and talented group of musicians and performers.


––Ben Nachman