In what’s probably the only good news coming out of Detroit lately, ‘80s garage gods, The Gories, are planning a summer reunion tour along with Memphis cohorts, Oblivians. The Gories broke up back in 1993 – the same year the Ford Taurus was America’s best selling automobile – as front man Mick Collins made the permanent transition to his side project, The Dirtbombs. With only three US dates scheduled, this ticket is hotter than a GTO’s clutch at the dragstrip (RIP Pontiac):

June 19, 2009 – Hi Tone, Memphis TN
June 20, 2009 – Hi Tone, Memphis TN
June 27, 2009 – Majestic Theater, Detroit MI

The remaining dates are scattered throughout Europe where American garage bands seem to always get a better reception than they do here in the US. Jack Oblivian played SXSW earlier this year with his latest band The Tennessee Tearjerkers but his namesake band, Oblivians, hasn’t been heard from since its final ’97 opus Play 9 Songs with New Orleans keyboard provocateur, Mr. Quintron.

For the uninitiated, The Gories repertoire is best exemplified by 1990’s I Know You Fine, But How You Doin’ which shows a bit more polish than previous efforts while maintaining a decidedly lo-fi sound. Berklee School grads they ain’t – think of Dead Moon but with rhythm.

Oblivians’ collaboration with Mr. Quintron feels like the soundtrack to a tent revival complete with baptisms and an afternoon barbeque. Popular Favorites spawned the quasi-hit “Guitar Shop Asshole” which paraphrases Chris Rock’s memorable performance in I’m Gonna Git You Sucka (‘how much for just one string?’).

If you happen to be within driving distance of Memphis or Detroit you’ve been warned that this will be the most raucous show you’re likely to see until Elvis and Lux Interior resurrect for a double bill in Vegas.

MP3:::
The Gories – Hey, Hey We’re The Gories
Oblivians – Feel All Right