The Melvins have a lot to celebrate these days. 40 years since they formed, 30 years of their "Houdini" album and out on the Twins of Evil tour with Japanese band Boris performing the "Bullhead" album. If you aren't familiar with the Melvins they are known for their pioneering work in sludge and experimental metal. Lead singer and guitarist Buzz Osborne has been the only constant member of the band and is still at the helm.
The show was on the first cold night of the year at the Musikfest Cafe in Bethlehem, PA. The venue was filled with an audience that I was not expecting. I was expecting an older crowd but the venue was filled with a very young crowd, mainly in their late teens and early 20's. They chanted for the Melvins before they hit the stage; then sang, danced and rocked their way through their hour plus set. The Melvins performed 7 out of the 8 songs off of the "Bullhead" only leaving out If I Had an Exorcism. They started the night out with Ligature. The guitar was heavily distorted, the drums were like a heavy heart beat and the bass thundered through the crowd. When asked about the show I said the Melvins were a blend of Motorhead and Jimmy Hendrix.
The show was a remarkable journey through time covering their iconic songs including two from their anniversary album "Houdini" . They tore through Honey Bucket and Night Goat. Honey Bucket had stand out speed metal riffs and vocals that rivaled Metallica and Night Goat was bass heavy and gritty. From beginning to end their set showed why they are gaining fans of a new generation. Their music has inspired many bands that the younger generation is in to. It's only natural that they are gravitating to the source.
It was a great night at the Musikfest Cafe with the Melvins and I am glad that I was there to capture the moments of history.
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