Stolen Babies/Screaming Mechanical Brain/Discordia/Something Involving a Monkey

If the band’s twisted name fails to freak you out, don’t worry because their live show will. Band members take turns showcasing their artistic talents by creating the gory props and backdrops so that each show has a unique look to it. The California-based avant-garde metal quintet draws influence from dark cabaret, heard most through their use of an accordion. Stolen Babies put out an EP in 2002, and their official debut full-length, There Be Squabbles Ahead, followed in 2006. Expect to hear some tracks from their latest longplayer, Naught, due out next month. (Nikki Hunt)