If the Philadelphia gypsy-punks' chaotic live shows are the real deal, then Rabbit Habits (which shares its name with a brand of vibrator) is the band's most realistic home substitute yet. The quintet's feathers and war paint can still only be experienced live, but here its gutter ruckus, reminiscent of Captain Beefheart and Tom Waits's boho-hobo sway, is more fully realized than on previous efforts. From carnie chant "The Ballad of Butter Beans" to hard-luck juke joint "Easy Eats or Dirty Doctor Galapagos," the album incorporates rollicking keyboards, accordion, horns, woodwinds, fuzztone bass and lunatic percussion. Lead singer Honus Honus sings in a strangled shout that recalls recent tourmate Modest Mouse at its most apoplectic (both groups also share an affinity for Charles Bukowski). Occasionally, the freak show moments mask Man Man's high quality songwriting. Still, you don't need an interest in the avant-garde to appreciate the delicate piano pop on "Doo Right" or stomping serial killer song "Poor Jackie." Does Rabbit Habits please, satisfy and titillate? Yes. But that doesn't mean it'll make you happy.

-- Marc Hogan