Formed in 1995, the members of Disco Biscuits, Jon “the Barber” Gutwillig (guitar), Marc Brownstein (bass), Aron Magner (keyboards, synth) and Allen Aucoin (drums), met whilst they were attending the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, US. After playing at college parties, the band soon became regulars of the City’s nightclub scene, garnering a reputation for their groove-heavy sets.
In 1996, Disco Biscuits released their independent debut album, “Encephalous Crime.” Its warm reception led to high profile support slots for Merl Saunders, the Black Crowes, Morphine and the Jerry Garcia Band, raising their profile and finding them new fans. Declaring their desire to create the wildest music possible, their sound became dance-heavy, making their live shows notoriously fun. Their eclectic influences kept listeners on their toes, with it not being unknown for them to break into classical jazz alongside their blues grooves.
They signed with Hydrophonics Records in 1998 for their sophomore effort, “The Uncivilised Area,” before returning three years later with “They Missed the Perfume.” Disco Biscuits were always eager to explore new territories, displayed with “Señor Boombox” in 2002. Two live albums appeared in 2006, with the double-disc “The Wind at Four to Fly” and “Rocket 3.” A steady release of albums continued, with 2009’s “Planet Anthem” and “Otherwise Law Abiding Citizens,” in 2011, still finding time to curate the festival, Camp Bisco.
I got to see the amazing and amazingly talented Disco Biscuits live in 2013. They put on a truly excellent performance. The light show was amazing and well thought out in time with the music. The drum solos were excellent and some of the best I have ever heard in my entire life. The guitar and bass had amazing riffs that made you sit up and take notice of both individually each time they played. The vocals were perfect for the genre and the lyrics were both fun and funny while being intriguing and interesting at the same time.
They were a band that is clearly in love with music of all kinds and it showed in that performance.The audience at times did not know what to think, they found themselves in awe of their amazing musical talent, but it was not a song you could really move around to so they just stood there, slack jawed.
Eventually people started to clap along to the faster songs and showed their love for the band this way. I loved that concert and think these are some of the best musicians I have ever seen perform live. Every one should see Disco Biscuits perform live at least once in their lives.