Show Me The Body
Show Me The Body is a New York City-based experimental music group formed in 2009, comprised of Julian Cashwan Pratt (vocals, banjo), Harlan Steed (bass), and former member Noah Cohen-Corbett (drums and electronics). Their sound defies easy categorization, incorporating elements of punk, hardcore, hip-hop, and noise music.
Julian, known for literally pushing the boundaries of the term "frontman" with his physicality during live performances, teamed up with Harlan and Noah, who brought an unconventional instrumental approach, including the use of a five-string electric upright bass. Show Me The Body's early career was characterized by their D.I.Y. approach, involving a series of lo-fi, self-recorded demos that captured their raw energy.
In 2016, the band signed with Loma Vista Recordings and started to push the boundaries of their sound, drawing inspiration from their hometown's underground music scene. Their debut album, "Body War," combined harsh guitar distortion and booming drums with gritty vocals and Pratt's signature banjo. The next year, they released "Corpus I," a mixtape that featured a host of collaborations, emphasizing their openness to experimentation and fusion with hip-hop.
Show Me The Body's live performances are a unique experience, often featuring aggressive vocal deliveries and forceful, heavy bass lines. Their music incorporates an array of influences from New York's various cultural communities, including rap and punk, resulting in a genre-defying sound that is both confrontational and thoroughly captivating.
In 2019, the band released "Dog Whistle," which delved into themes of state oppression, gentrification, and class war, and included a series of feisty singles featuring artistically fitting collaborations. This album was spearheaded by Jack Shirley, who's known for his work with hardcore punk and noise projects.
As of recent, Show Me The Body's music remains a powerful statement of creative dissent, reflecting the struggles and emotions felt by young people in New York City. With a fearless approach to their music and a distinctive sound that unifies multiple genres, Show Me The Body continues to challenge conventions and invigorate the music scene.