Richard Elfman founded the theatrical troupe The Mystic Knights of the Oingo Boingo, which later formally switched leadership to lead singer Danny Elfman when he transformed it into a band.

This hyperkinetic New Wave band is characterized by their manic live performances and eclectic range of songs; Elfman and the band performed for a remarkable twenty years.

The Californian band, a pared-down version of the theatrical troupe The Mystic Knights of the Oingo Boingo, released eight major albums and two live compilations, each containing songs that varied from fast-paced ska to soulful jazz to emotional rock to off-kilter pop. Their style can best be defined as “undefinable.”

Now mostly known for their frequent contribution to movie soundtracks (including their most successful song “Weird Science”), Oingo Boingo formally broke up in 1995 after their last Halloween live concert, the reason being that ‘it was time.’

Since the ... read more »