Perhaps the perfect amalgam of Royal Trux, ZZ Top and the Chickasaw Mud Puppies, Chicken Snake funnels anarchic acoustic blues though a psych boogie filter. The underlying beats lock in, the acoustic slide guitar squonks away and the songs ramble on through the night.

Chicken Snake Shapeshifter (Beast Records)

The upbeat tempos undercut the decidedly dark lyrics--or perhaps provide a sly counterpoint. This isn't a band that's interested in mass appeal, but it does want its fans to get up off their asses. If you're not shaking one way or another while this is playing, you're not listening right.

Similarly, the lo-fi sound really isn't. This is produced to sound a lot more raw than it is. I imagine live shows could be ragers, but the deft arrangements and production are what lend these songs their loose feel.

I suppose some might see this as a put-on. I don't have an opinion on that, because I'm more concerned about the finished product. Chicken Snake has an undeniable visceral appeal. Think less and dance more. Moderately whacked out and totally infectious.

Jon Worley