It's bittersweet to be making this post. Murder by Death are currently on the road for their Farewell Tour. Murder by Death have been a part of my life for the past 20 years. Some of my longest-lasting friendships were formed through this band, and my love for them and their music is unconditional. It's sad to say goodbye, though it's not for forever. The band will continue to get together for their cave shows, and hopefully some other one-off events here and there, but for the most part, their touring career is coming to an end. When the band announced the dates for their farewell tour, I knew without a doubt that I was not going to miss their Halloween show. I can't imagine a bigger bang to go out on.
They enlisted the help of Folk-Punk rockers AJJ to send them on their way. AJJ is another band that played a part in my youth. The pairing was perfect, and I couldn't have been more excited. I arrived at the venue in an entire blue jean ensemble and red puffer vest. My best attempt at Marty McFly. Amongst the crowd I spied Ozzy, a hot dog, a few mothmen, Chas Tenenbaum and his children, and many other would-be trick or treaters.
When the time came for AJJ to take the stage, the band had been replaced by Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem, but they still ran through a number of AJJ hits like "Brave as a Noun," "Heartilation," and "Big Bird" from the band's critically acclaimed, Knife Man. AJJ still performs with every ounce of gusto they've maintained their entire career. Honestly, though, the highlight of the night was when someone requested "Rainbow Connection" and Sean Bonnette as Floyd Pepper, went on a rant about never mentioning that song or bringing up Kermit. The stage banter was every bit as entertaining as the performance.
In the lead-up to the show, Murder by Death had been hinting at being cryptids for Halloween. Which ones they would all take the role on as was a mystery. As a video played displaying a poignant message about the farewell tour, and how many shows they have played (This was their 1939th show. The first time I saw them, they were only at 563.), out came The Lochness Monster, Bat Boy, Cerberus, Cyclops, The Abominable Snowman, The Mothman, and Baba Yaga. Throughout the night, Nessie made notes of how they wanted the setlist to be more spooky-themed. Naturally, that meant they had to include songs like "Ghost Fields," "Ash" and the classic kid-zombie tale of "Killbot 2000." However, they didn't shy away from fan favorites and classics like "Brother," "Comin' Home" and "Foxglove." Turla even asked for advice on how to make pizza spooky to properly include "Pizza Party! (at Gloria Estefan's House)."
The night was beginning to wind down. The cryptids left the stage for the encore. Soon Baba Yaga and Nessie came back out to kick off "No Oath, No Spell" with the rest of the cryptid collective joining them midsong. They ended the night with the only song appropriate for their farewell tour: "Alas."
I know this won't be the last time I see Murder by Death. They're one of my favorite bands, always will be, and I'm sad that this is goodbye for the foreseeable future. After nearly 2000 shows, they've earned their rest. Thanks for all the years of shows and music Murder by Death, and any time you've given to speak to me, whether for an interview, to hear my song requests, or just to fawn over your band. You all always did things your way and made being a fan of your band unique and exciting. From book clubs, shows in caves or haunted hotels, or the opportunity to cover any song suggested to you, being a fan was always a pleasure. Thanks for being real ones.
