The Key Studio Sessions: The Bad Doctors

It seemed like The Bad Doctors burst out of nowhere this summer. The power trio’s impressive set opening for JEFF The Brotherhood in August sent me scurrying after their Distractions EP, but as I noted when profiling them in The Key’s Freshman Class of 2011 roundup, the Docs have been kicking around West Philly for almost three years. Watching them record a high-energy Key Studio Session last month, it was obvious how locked-in these three dudes were. Their revved-up post-punk drumbeats, tricky over-layering parts, dramatic slow burners, and spitfire Ramones rockers that work up a sweat; all were pulled off like only a band that’s been around the block can (even if that block is somewhere around Clark Park). Equally evident is their fondness for new wave, from the Peter Hook bass stylings of “The Big Bang” to the ultra-Devo “The Ugliest Man.” Tune in to The Key Studio Sessions Hour on XPN2 tomorrow night at 7 p.m. when the band will discuss its fondness for literary references and old philosophers; share tips for finding the ever-elusive Bloodstains Across Philadelphia comp; and reflect on its growth from The Millcreek Tavern to points east. Then, when the show is done, proceed to Kungfu Necktie, where The Bad Doctors are on a solid bill with Hot Guts and Catholic Workers. (8 p.m. doors, $8 tickets, 21+)