Tampa supergroup The Holy Terror has come a long way in a short amount of time. Formed in 2018 and comprised of a bevy of members from several other hometown bands (i.e. Rototiller, Poetry ‘N Lotion, Same Day Delivery Orchestra, et al), the band is the brainchild of drummer, singer, guitarist and songwriter John Nowicki.
Wearing his influences proudly on his sleeve, Nowicki leads the seven-piece outfit through gin-soaked paeans reminiscent of Tom Waits’ classic work as effectively and efficiently as he does through the moody, introspective tunes that harken back to ‘90s grunge era on the dozen songs that make up this superb release. Melissa Grady’s emotive cello work on “Kindling” adds a layer of lush beauty that lifts the melancholic piece to almost become the album’s centerpiece.
But it’s Nowicki’s ability to straddle the line between cheekiness and earnestness throughout HT2: L’atrocité Du Jour that’s the real attraction here. When he belts the line “I’m on drugs…” to open “Powers that Be,” another standout track on the album, the listener isn’t sure if they should laugh or worry. With this outstanding collection of 12 original compositions, this, The Holy Terror’s sophomore release, is undoubtedly one of the best to emerge from the crop of local albums this year.
Tampa Bay venues and promoters need you to bug Marco Rubio about saving the live music scene.
Support local journalism in these crazy days. Our small but mighty team is working tirelessly to bring you up to the minute news on how Coronavirus is affecting Tampa and surrounding areas. Please consider making a one time or monthly donation to help support our staff. Every little bit helps.
Follow @cl_music on Twitter to get the most up-to-date music news, concert announcements and local tunes. Subscribe to our newsletter, and listen to us on WMNF 88.5-FM’s “Radio Reverb” program every Saturday from 4 p.m.-6 p.m.
