Self-proclaimed ‘greatest glam punk goth ’n’ roll outlaws’ Gypsy Pistoleros reassure listeners that they have returned “more unhinged than ever.” I can confirm that the Chaucerian-titled ‘Dark Faerie Tales’ is as hinged as a thousand broken doors resigned to their fate as firewood. In a senseless world, we can either seek answers, or we can retreat into the oblivion of face painted hedonism.
Gypsy Pistoleros have chosen the second option, as evidenced by the video for ‘Dark Faerie Tales’, which sees them bashing their instruments in the Wyre Forest like manic racoon extras in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. In the SLAP review of last year’s album Church of the Pistoleros, we wrote that Gypsy Pistoleros are on a mission to yell and be damned, and their latest single reiterates that commitment.
So, enough preamble – what about the song? It announces itself with Tom Morello-like chords before giving way to a “mirror, mirror on the wall” incantation. The chorus is equal parts 80s hair rock and the college joie de vivre of Ash. Halfway through, there’s a tempo change that’s a jumble of Dire Straits, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and The Eagles, then there’s another brief tempo change before a final burst of the chorus that feels like playing Grand Theft Auto or doing donuts in the Aldi car park.
Gypsy Pistoleros will be performing more post-apocalyptic glam rituals (i.e. gigs) from April. Catch them at The Marrs Bar in Worcester on 17th April and/or at the Breaking Bands Festival in Droitwich on 23rd May. Bring your face paint and your nan.
‘Dark Faerie Tales’ is out now via The New Church Records / Plastichead Distribution Alongside the single, the band have launched full album pre-orders — available now on two exclusive colour vinyl editions in deluxe gatefold sleeves, plus CD digipak gatefold editions, you can order online.
By: Neil Laurenson