The Witching Hour Sessions – 26/01/2018

Whipping Boy

Whipping Boy were formed in Dublin in 1988, the band comprised of Fearghal McKee (vocals), Paul Page (guitar), Myles McDonnell (bass, vocals), and Colm Hassett (drums). After a couple of EP’s on the Cheree label, they released their debut album, ‘Submarine’ in 1992 on Liquid Records . The album was critically acclaimed though commercially unsuccessful, but it did lead to a deal with Columbia Records. The follow-up album, ‘Heartworm’ received much critical acclaim, with Allmusic calling it “an earth-shatteringly powerful experience”.

The group split up in 1998 after being dropped by Columbia, leaving a third album unreleased. This self-titled album was eventually released in 2000 on their own Low Rent label.

Tonight’s listening:

1 – Submarine (1992)

A fine debut that sets the scene for their superb follow up ‘Heartworm’.

2 – Heartworm (1995)

A powerful album filled with tense guitars and fantastic production. All 11 songs deliver on an unsettling, dangerous and yet beautiful and moving record.

3 – Whipping Boy (2000)

Finds the band evolving and adding strings and piano to some downright beautiful ballad tempo songs. It’s hard to find a flaw on this fantastic album.