The Afghan Whigs: FUV Live

The Afghan Whigs first made a splash back in 1988 when they self-released their debut, Big Top Halloween. But the Ohio band truly hit its stride in the '90s, after signing to Sub Pop and eventually, in a more fraught relationship, Elektra, releasing Uptown Avondale, Gentlemen and Black Love. Taking a step away from the grunge rumblings of the era, the Afghan Whigs meshed a soulful sound with frontman Greg Dulli's agitated croon and bray, underscoring lyrics brimming with personal and romantic malaise.

After releasing five albums, the last being 1965 in 1998, The Afghan Whigs broke up in 2001. Dulli busied himself with a new band, The Twilight Singers, and later collaborated with Mark Lanegan as the Gutter Twins.

However, after playing live again in 2012, the Afghan Whigs were further inspired by a 2013 SXSW show with Usher, energizing the band. Despite the departure of orginal lead guitarist Rick McCollum, the Afghan Whigs headed back into the studio to record Do to the Beast—their first album of new material in 16 years and one that finds the band back on Sub Pop.

Last month, the Afghan Whigs trundled up to the Bronx for a set and a conversation with The Alternate Side's Russ Borris. Below, watch videos of the Afghan Whigs playing live in Studio A, including a kicking version of "The Lottery," and listen to the entire session in the FUV Vault or on TAS on 91.5 WNYE this Friday, June 20, at 11a.m. EDT, also streaming online.

Want to see The Afghan Whigs for yourself? Catch them when they come back to New York on October 4 at The Beacon Theatre.  

[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzM3qSJ35kA]

[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGawdwTK3Og]

[recorded: 05/13/14]