Hollywood Undead brings notes from underground to Salt Lake

If anyone doubts that the masked rap-rock ensemble Hollywood Undead has a conscience, consider this.

When the band heard about the Newtown massacre, members tried to get the song "Kill Everyone" pulled from their new album "Notes From the Underground," released on Jan. 8.

Alas, it was too late, said Johnny 3 Tears.

But the hard edge of the group remains, with some of its grittiest material yet ready to be unveiled live.

Tears said he is "more inclined to write music when you're emotional, in one direction or the other," which explains his sadder, more brutal songs on the band's third album.

But, he added, "I still like to party."

This time around, based on the group's past commercial success, the band was in total control of what went on the album, with little label involvement. "It's working with people you want to work with," Tears said.

The group also plans on continuing to wear the masks during the tour, for reasons other than scaring people.

"It's engaging in some degree," Tears said. "I always felt it was important that there was never a face to [Hollywood Undead]. It could be anyone doing it. It breaks down barriers between us and the audience."

When • Friday, Jan. 11, 6:30 p.m.Where • In The Venue, 579 W. 200 South, Salt Lake CityTickets • $19.50 at SmithsTix