Will Wood and the Tapeworms: Biography of the Experimental Rock Ensemble
American experimental rock band known for their eclectic, genre-blending sound and theatrical performances.Will Wood and the Tapeworms was an experimental rock band formed in New Jersey, USA, around 2015. Fronted by singer, songwriter, and pianist Will Wood, the band released two critically acclaimed studio albums, 'Everything is a Lot' (2015) and 'Self-Ish' (2016), before disbanding in 2020. They developed a cult following for their unique fusion of cabaret, jazz, punk, rock, and avant-garde elements, coupled with Wood's intensely personal and often surreal lyrics exploring mental health, identity, and existentialism.
- The band's name was intentionally provocative, referencing Wood's past struggles with mental health and substance abuse, framing his personal 'demons' as metaphorical 'tapeworms'.
- Their live shows were renowned for their high energy, theatricality, and unpredictability, often featuring elaborate costumes and chaotic stage presence.
- Frontman Will Wood has been open about his diagnoses of bipolar disorder, OCD, and Tourette syndrome, themes that heavily influenced the band's lyrics and raw emotional delivery.
- The band officially disbanded in 2020. Will Wood transitioned to a solo career, releasing albums like 'The Normal Album' (2020) and 'In case I make it,' (2022), which continued his experimental approach but often with a more subdued, introspective, and acoustic-driven sound compared to the Tapeworms' output.
- Despite their relatively short tenure and limited discography, Will Wood and the Tapeworms developed a significant and devoted online fanbase, particularly noted on platforms like Tumblr and Reddit, drawn to their unique sound and unflinching lyrical themes.