Throwing Muses

Throwing Muses

Throwing Muses are an alternative rock and indie rock group from Newport, United States. Formed in 1981, they also sit within post-punk and are associated with the 4AD scene. The line-up across the band’s history includes Kristin Hersh, Tanya Donelly, David Narcizo, Leslie Langston, Fred Abong, Bernard Georges, Elaine Adamedes and Becca Blumen. They are signed to Woah Dad!.

History and style

The group develops around the contrasting songwriting and vocals of Kristin Hersh and Tanya Donelly, who are stepsisters and both write for the band. Donelly leaves in 1991 to form Belly, later also working with The Breeders and as a solo artist. She returns to guest on concerts and recordings after the band reforms in 2003, and also contributes backing vocals to the self-titled album released that year.

Throwing Muses is known for songs with shifting tempos, unusual chord changes, irregular structures and surreal lyrics. Hersh’s writing is direct and often stark, while Donelly’s contributions bring more pop-oriented melodies and vocal harmonies. David Narcizo’s drumming is also distinctive, using techniques that avoid cymbals.

Releases and related work

The band records and tours extensively through the 1980s and 1990s before concentrating on other projects for a time. Their 2003 return comes with Throwing Muses, their eighth album. A greatest-hits compilation, Anthology, appears in 2011. Their ninth album, Purgatory / Paradise, follows. The band continues to perform and record beyond that period.

Members and other projects

Hersh also works as a solo artist and fronts the power trio 50 Foot Wave, which also includes Muses bassist Bernard Georges. Narcizo works in graphic design and has a separate musical project called Lakuna. Donelly has also been involved with Belly, The Breeders and solo performance.

Songwriting themes

Hersh’s songs sometimes address mental illness, but more often focus on characters from everyday life or on relationships.