IN AND OUT OF YOUTH

For those not in the know, a new record or tour from Young Widows is an event, a rarity, and something to look forward to—like the last day of school, sliding into a fresh pair of sneaks, or someone pulling a fire alarm. As that old adage goes about absence and the heart, we promise it’s also accompanied by mild frustration and resentment that the Louisville trio aren’t just perpetually around. But by the time they do show, all is forgiven, as their ever-evolving mix of punk, goth, death rock, and noise transforms those feelings—bolstered by that bombastic, shock-and-awe live show, naturally. If you haven’t seen them yet, consider this official CREEM homework.

Luckily, we’re the merciful type, and we got bassist Nick Thieneman to take some photos on the road during their recent trek with Cherubs and Porcelain. But just know that reading the CliffsNotes isn’t the same as grasping the material. In fact, it’s about time we made a syllabus, and you can be pretty goddamn sure that Young Widows will be on it.