Yr Knives – “Stretch Bath (live 9/2025)”

One of the best parts of catching a set from Messthetics this week, aside from the searing sax bath from James Brandon Lewis, was the opening set by new outfit Yr Knives. The band is comprised of a host of Chicago improv vets, including members of Tortoise, BASIC, Health and Beauty, Wild Bell, and Hanami. The band tore through a set that slipped from searing to tender caress, building a wave of anticipation for their upcoming debut record. In the meantime, though, the band is proffering a merch table-only live CD that captures the stage-side fire that they had on display this past Monday at Tubby’s. “Stretch Bath” tears at the bonds of tape, seething and flexing under the hot stage lights. The band’s symbiosis is on full display from this 2025 set, just a taste of what’s to come in the next few months from the band. If they’re headed your way, don’t hesitate, the double-foot kick to the head between them and The Messthetics is worth seeking out. Check out a peek into the live disc below and keep an eye out for more news.