Almost certainly one of the most unique bands to strike the scene, The World/Inferno Friendship Society (WIFS), is back with an all new album Red-Eyed Soul. Commonly referred to as a cabaret punk band, WIFS puts on very unique live shows and has an incredible cult following particularly in their hometown of Brooklyn, NY. Formed almost a decade ago this circus acting posse has pleased thousands of fans and is always highly anticipated. Having performed with many other punk rock acts throughout the years and even appearing on a Rock Against Bush compilation, WIFS has no problem pushing out this sixth full length release CD.

So what is cabaret punk you ask? Mix your typical angry punk rock with some swing music and add some rebellion and historic references and you have yourself cabaret punk that is simply delightful to listen to or even dance to. WIFS almost reminds me of an Elvis Costello like band but with a louder horns section, elegant back up singers, and up to ten tattooed punk rockers rocking out at times. If you think that it is weird, you are correct, but it is a good weird that will show you a good time.

Starting the CD off is “Brother Of The Mayor Of Bridgewater” a perfect cabaret tune to this fifteen track CD. This rockabilly like song makes me want to riot in almost a West Side Story style once the singing starts, (mind you I do not dance) making it a nice entertaining track. I swear Mr. Costello himself guest sung on “The Velocity Of Love” as the similarities of the singing are so exact. “Only Anarchists Are Pretty” is such a great song about the attraction to rebels. The song has catchy swing piano playing throughout and saxophones to accompany great singing.

I especially dug the end of the song as they slowed it down a bit and kept repeating “only anarchists are... pretty” only to speed it up again and bring back the horns. The song quickly morphs into “Let’s Steal Everything” an almost nihilist anthem with gypsy like harmony backing the tune about having no shame, having nothing, and finding something to do like stealing everything. Ending the disc is “So Long To The Circus” with a punk rock beginning but met midway with piano and horns.

I have missed my opportunity a few times to see WIFS live and regret it. From what I have heard, they put on one of the best live shows especially their annual Halloween show where they actually march down the street performing songs with the audience following. How fun that must be to participate in a tradition like that.

I am absolutely in love with Red-Eyed Soul mainly because how fun the disc is. I have not heard of anything quite so entertaining in a long time. I admit I was not too familiar with their material spite a few songs, but this CD has invited me to check out their entire catalog. If you are new to WIFS, they are not anything you have ever heard musically before and that is why the band is one to give a chance. If you like the Elvis Costello or the Stray Cats and prefer your music a little more upbeat yet insubordinate, then you need to check out WFIS.