Another week, another Mercury music section filled with musicians making music via ordinary methods. How dull. Looks like it's gonna take Kanye, once again, to point the way to the future: Music made entirely with animal noises. "Bark!" "Roar!" "Moo!" "Oink!" "Gobble!" This idea can't fail.

Nerve-addled pre-punkers the Skabbs broke up in 1979 when their lead singer died. None of their material has been ever released—until now. And they're coming to town to play. (Our extended Q&A with Skabbs bassist Mike Enzor will be up on End Hits later today.)
LISTEN:

The Skabbs - "Idle Threat"

The rebirth of doomers Witch Mountain continues with their latest, Cauldron of the Wild. Jack London would be proud. IF HE WASN'T DEAD.
LISTEN:

Witch Mountain - "Beekeeper"

Rhett Miller's other band, Old 97's, have made peace with his solo career. Because how can you say no to a handsome face like his?
LISTEN:

Rhett Miller - "Out of Love"

Portland classic metal band Last Empire are playing their last show ever. Q: Are you ready? A: You are not.

Plus the Men (pictured above), Widowspeak, Jimmy Cliff, and more in our rundown of Up & Coming shows.