CRITIC'S CHOICE

Barkmarket, with Spongehead, Tuesday, May 24, at Seven South, is a band that inspires strong opinions. Relatively meek listeners likely will hate this trio--hate it with a passion not unlike that exhibited by the mob that recently celebrated the execution of John Wayne Gacy. But the more adventurous among you should recognize that the music made by Dave Sardy, John Nowlin and Rock Savage represents a taste worth acquiring. As proved by Barkmarket's last two American Records discs, 1992's Vegas Throat and last year's Gimmick, this band is extraordinarily intense and sports an understanding of both melody and unrelenting noise--as well as a wicked sense of humor--that should have you rolling in the mosh pit. That is, if this description hasn't already scared you off.