No better time than Halloween to salute that the awesome Shaggs! Although they are charitably described as "outsider" music, and were supposedly one of Frank Zappa's favorite groups, what they really are is three well-meaning young women who could not sing, play instruments, or write songs, and yet somehow succeeded brilliantly at all three. From the lisping vocals, to the randomly strumming guitar, to the drums that usually sounded like they were playing a different song, the Shaggs on one hand were a true disaster. They modestly entitled their album "Philosophy of the World." And yet...and yet, their charm and awfulness is somehow transmogrified into something incredible. Yes, I know they sound terrible, but most bands couldn't sound this terrible if they tried.Anyway, one of my fave Shaggs songs is "It's Halloween." Someone has graciously posted a YouTube video with the song accompanying some sort of Halloween parade or something. Wasn't really paying attention...was just listening to the Shaggs roll over me. Hope you enjoy them too. Happy Halloween!
