John Maus (USA) | Vilnius

Artist, freak, philosopher, publicist. That's how John Maus could be described. Although he has a doctorate in political philosophy and a teaching status, he emerged in the world of music more than twenty years ago. Then went on to collaborate and play with music freaks like Ariel Pink and Animal Collective before eventually developing his own sound inspired by the music of Nirvana, Syd Barrett, Jim Morrison and the weird sounds of the Renaissance and Baroque eras. Nostalgia and irony are now key elements in his music, and a melancholic baritone reminiscent of Joy Division's Ian Curtis intertwines with avant-garde, mysterious, synth-filled pop compositions.

However, Maus' biggest breakthrough was the 2011 album "We Must Become the Pitiless Censors of Ourselves", which the snobbish music publication "Pitchfork" included in the list of the best albums of the year and gave it even 8.4 points. This collection is now considered a classic of experimental pop music and paved the way for the success of the American artist and allowed him to establish himself in the world of eclectic music.

The live performances of this strange character are eccentric and impressive. Some call them something similar to an exorcism, others a cathartic experience with moments of silence, wild shouts, sweat, strange euphoria and mild anxiety that forces you to look deeper into your emotions. As J. Maus himself says: "I try as much as I can in the performances. If people can't see my face, sweat or effort, who can blame them if they think I'm just some kind of mockery?' He's about as far removed from traditional pop star status as you can imagine.

J. Maus lyrics are not easy. The American provokes, touches on fear, society and extremely controversial topics in his works using black humor and irony, for example in the songs "Cop Killer" or "Real Bad Job". His lyrical style is often combined with repetitive phrases and evocative, almost monotone speaking that creates a strong impression.

As a Flood magazine reviewer writes: "If you haven't seen him on stage The fury and pure energy of Maus, I strongly recommend that you do it at the first opportunity, before this exceptional, enigmatic artist finally leaves the hall and disappears from your ears”. The BBC described him as a serious believer in pop music who "<...> has a deep desire to explore our contemporary relationship with pop music and its impact on our philosophy and culture".

J. Maus is worth discovering if you like musical projects like Bauhaus, Ariel Pink, Suicide, Dirty Beaches or Alex Cameron.

Doors: 18.30
Music: 20.00

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