Explore the Afghan Whigs' unique blend of soul-infused alt-rock, Greg Dulli's pitch-black lyrics, and the band's tumultuous 40-year journey, from their grunge-era origins to their latest album 'Soft Control,' reflecting on Dulli's personal history, major label struggles, and enduring artistic vision.
The Afghan Whigs, led by frontman Greg Dulli, carved a distinctive niche in the grunge era with a sound heavier than their peers, rooted in turbulent soul and funk, often employing distortion to cut through drummer Steve Earle's volume. Dulli's lyrics, inspired by Motown, explored dark themes of co-dependent relationships, betrayal, and consequence. Forty years after their formation, the Whigs are resurgent with their new album, 'Soft Control,' which Dulli views as holding its own against classics like 'Gentlemen' and 'Black Love.' Dulli's early life, marked by sorrow, a questioning Catholic upbringing, and a mother's diverse record collection, shaped his artistic output. After forming The Black Republicans, the band coalesced with John Curley, Rick McCollum, and Steve Earle, signing with Sub Pop and gaining renown for eclectic live covers. A major label deal with Elektra followed Nirvana's explosion, leading to 'Gentlemen,' an album born from a stormy relationship where Dulli confronted his own hypocrisy and male chauvinism. Subsequent albums included the film-noirish 'Black Love' and the mainstream-leaning '1965' before an amicable split in 1999. Dulli pursued other projects like The Twilight Singers and The Gutter Twins with Mark Lanegan. The Whigs reunited in 2012, energized by a performance with Usher, leading to new material like 'Do to the Beast' and 'Soft Control.' The latest album reflects Dulli's contemplation of mortality, especially after Lanegan's death. Dulli concludes by reflecting on life, death, and music's role as his lifelong companion, affirming the Afghan Whigs, with original member John Curley, as an enduring and 'hot fuckin’ band.'
