After the band dodged a hurricane out of Houston, Savannah-based Black Tusk will perform Thursday, September 16 at Santos. The thrash and sludge metal outfit off the Season of Mist label is rounding out a tour that started earlier this month in Asheville. Often compared to Savannah’s Kylesa and Municipal Waste out of Richmond, Black Tusk’s members describe their music as “swamp metal,” a term that has been described as “murky” and “dirty.”

Guitarist and vocalist Andrew Fidler told OffBeat about the band’s time in New Orleans. “We’ve been playing in New Orleans forever. We actually played a house show in Metairie after Katrina. Dixie Tavern and Siberia were our second homes,” he says.

“Savannah and New Orleans are very similar. It’s the same vibe—friendly locals and a massive service industry serving tourists. But those locals have their own scene in Mid City and that’s where we’ve been known to hang.” He also says the band is known to be found at The Saint. 

When asked if social-distancing has affected live shows, Fidler is optimistic, feeling the energy is still there. “A lot of shows have been outside. It’s hard to socially distance in a venue. Staff and crew are wearing masks for the most part. Attendees not drinking are usually masked. There’s vaccine requirements in some places. But people still make it work and have a good time. And sometimes they do mosh it up.”

The original lineup of the band, which released five studio albums together, featured Fidler, James May, and  Jonathan Athon. Athon died after a tragic biking accident and the band released T.C.B.T. (which stands for Take Care of Black Tusk) with Corey Barhorst on bass. Currently, Derek Lynch is playing bass. The band has appeared on Adult Swim, which is based out of Atlanta.

Savage Master, originally based in Louisville, Kentucky, will open. A throwback super-retro metal act who seek to recreate the early 80s heavy metal sound, the band is Iron Maiden meets BDSM night with their theatrical flair. Savage Master is a staple in the Atlanta metal scene where bands such as Death of Kings, Order of the Owl, and Mastodon are based.

Wizard Dick will perform, as well. Tickets are $13 in advance or $16 at the door and may be purchased via holdmyticket.com. 

Proof of vaccination is required (or negative Covid test) to enter. Doors open at 8 p.m. at Santos, 1135 Decatur Street. Fans must be 21 years to enter.