Sunday, May 20

 What hath Alice Cooper wrought? Easy answer. Marilyn Manson and GWAR. What hath Marilyn Manson and GWAR wrought? One answer is Candy Spooky Theatre, which hails from that great American rip-off country of Japan. (No knock on Japan; their rip-offs tend to be a scream.) This gig at the Middle East Upstairs Sunday May 20 should be a scream indeed. It's all the trappings of a big bloody arena show, scaled down to club size. Here's what they promise: Jack-o-lanterns, murder, gore, and hellish screams. This is a horror-themed goth band with a demented sense of humor from Tokyo, Japan. Formed in 2003, they quickly became known through out their home country for their stylishly wild on-stage antics, and their overtly original, Halloween-esque, B-Rated horror inspired music. Their unique sound and personality soon garnered them worldwide fame as in early 2007 they signed to the Trisol label in Europe, and announced their first US tour for May of that year. A band that truly needs to be seen to be believed, they never let their fans down with their one-of-a-kind live Show, characteristic tongue-in-cheek humor, and over the top, harrowing, unconventional melodies. Unconventional melodies? Ah yes, the Japanese do have a way with that. Think of the Sadistic Mika Band or the Boredoms or Shonen Knife. This is one for the adventurous rocker, perhaps someone who's about to attend one of those fine Grindhouse shows at the nearby Brattle. Of note: This is an all-ages afternoon show - meaning the gore can't be so horrific. Starts at 1. Tickets: $12.

472 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 617-864-3278 mideastclub.com