Gwar, the cartoonishly grotesque band of self-styled Norwegian gods, had some tragic reminders that they are not, in fact, immortal when longtime bassist Cory Smoot (also known as Flattus Maximus) died in 2011. That was followed by the sudden death of founding vocalist and articulate Gwar spokesman Dave Brockie in March of last year.
Gwar carries on. The current crop of metal-mad, bile-spewing, bloodthirsty, foam-muscled Nordic deities includes Blothar, Balsac the Jaws of Death, Jizmak Da Gusha, Beefcake the Mighty, Pustulus Maximus, Sawborg Destructo and Bonesnapper.
Gwar has been visiting New Haven at this time of year for decades, often working Thanksgiving or Christmas themes into their epic shows of wanton destruction and high-decibel headbanging. Gwar assaults Toad’s Place, 300 York St., New Haven, at 7:45 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, with three opening acts: Born of Osiris, Battlecross and Zombil. Tickets are $25, $20 in advance. Information: 203-624-TOAD, toadsplace.com
