The Horrible Department Record Release Party at The Rotunda Jan. 29

The Horrible Department will be making their triumphant return to The Rotunda in West Philly tonight to celebrate the long-awaited vinyl LP/poster/digital download version of Capital I and the Royal Waltzing We. Their debut album is based on songs from last year’s stage production of the same name. It is near impossible to narrow this group’s unique and original sound down to one genre so I’ll just lay out some of the its best parts so you can get an idea: Accordion-centered, waltzing, theatrical art music played by a group raised on punk rock, and also knew somebody who happened to play the French horn. Okay, so this may seem like a strange combination of influences for a band, but trust me it is quite enjoyable. Also on the bill is the Balkan-influenced free jazz from the West Philadelphia Orchestra, as well as the gypsy jazz sounds of Octomonkey. Last March, the surreal stage production of this album was featured at two sold out nights at the Rotunda, so if you missed the experience last time around be sure to be there this evening. The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut St., $5 – $10, Doors  pm, All AgesDan Brightcliffe