Who are Mandible?

"This quasi-rock ensemble has made a quasi-career out of completely ignoring the talent-deaf behemoth now known as rock (or pop) radio.

Their material draws on numerous non-commercial influences, such as Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention, Ween and Syd Barrett’s solo works–and yet, somehow maintains an infectious element that will find many adventurous listeners drawn into what it is they’re laying down.

They mix up the more catchy elements of their song writing with plenty of atonal noise, structured musical chaos and intentional absurdity.

Initially begun as an experimental duo (only founding member Jason Mullinax remains in the current lineup) devoted to making amateur home recordings of mood-music–often played on toy instruments or improvised noise makers–they have now grown into a quartet whose live shows and recorded output are apt
to draw comparisons to everyone from the Boredoms and The Residents to Rush (!) And King Crimson.

Are they metal pranksters? Do they compose ambient soundtracks needing films? Are they unrepentant Primus fans?

The answer to all these questions is a resounding yes.

Mandible is loud, abrasive, twisted and much more daring than 90% of the bands that come through town. You may not wind up liking what they do (they’ll never enjoy anything remotely like mainstream success), but their hearts are in it, and it’s most definitely worth checking out if you appreciate artistic non conformity in the face of overwhelming odds.

--Jim Reed
Connect Savannah, October 6- October 12 2004