The underworld of the Southwest American pro-wrestling circuit may not seem like the most promising subject on which to base an album. But exploring the daily struggles and despairs of working class Americans has become a career staple for John Darnielle and The Mountain Goats.
It’s no surprise then that Beat The Champ is such a triumph. Drawing mostly from childhood memories, Darnielle takes us on a well-informed, nostalgic trip along the desolate highways, dusty parking lots and beat-down arenas frequented by his masked, high-flying former heroes.
Tracks like the uncomplicated ‘Animal Mask’ and ‘The Legend Of Chavo Guerrero’ (eldest brother of former WWE champion Eddie Guerrero) are awash with colour and childlike wonder: “You let me down/But Chavo never once did.” As children we all need heroes; Chavo, despite the jeers from his troublesome stepfather, was Darnielle’s.
Musically, the Goats serve up a host of mid-tempo, alt-country tracks complemented with occasional warming flourishes of lap steel, horn and piano. It’s straightforward, but the perfect soundtrack for Darnielle’s sepia-toned narrative.
There’s also a darker side to this world, one where wrestlers risk everything for a shot at fame, whilst mostly settling for meagre pay and the grim reality of life on the road. Some don’t even make it that far, as ‘Stabbed To Death Outside San Juan’ reveals. And it’s Darnielle’s skill in unravelling these contrasting perspectives that make Beat The Champ a turnbuckle-smashing success.

Key Track - 'The Legend of Chavo Guerrero'