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MELVINS => Melvins Show Reviews => Topic started by: Gladmarr on August 25, 2008, 10:12:29 PM

Title: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Gladmarr on August 25, 2008, 10:12:29 PM
...thought anybody interested might like to know... I gather this was relatively last minute, and word doesn't travel fast around this town...

The Melvins show in Phoenix August 27th was supposed to be at the Brickhouse in downtown Phoenix.  Now it's moved to Martini Ranch in Scottsdale.

...don't believe me, check the promoter's site:
http://www.luckymanonline.com/EventDetail.aspx?eventID=2080 (http://www.luckymanonline.com/EventDetail.aspx?eventID=2080)
Title: Re: 8/27/08 Melvins Phoenix, AZ show moved!
Post by: M i C H e L L e on August 25, 2008, 10:25:58 PM
Yes, this was determined to be true yesterday.  But thanks for the reminder.  You going?
Title: Re: 8/27/08 Melvins Phoenix, AZ show moved!
Post by: ___-----_____------_____ on August 26, 2008, 06:27:56 AM
(http://www.martiniranchaz.net/userfiles/aug%2027%20wed%20MELVINS%20calendar.jpg)
Title: Re: 8/27/08 Melvins Phoenix, AZ show moved!
Post by: Gladmarr on August 26, 2008, 10:15:11 AM
Quote from: Sweet Intuition on August 25, 2008, 10:25:58 PM
Yes, this was determined to be true yesterday.  But thanks for the reminder.  You going?

Sorry if this was repeated information, I did look around a bit to see if had already been posted before I put out there... and yes, I'm going!  I never miss the Melvins when they come to town.
Title: Re: 8/27/08 Melvins Phoenix, AZ show moved!
Post by: cara on August 26, 2008, 11:20:23 AM
Yeah this was reallly short notice, i'm sure there still will be a few people who show up at the Brickhouse tomorrow.
I got to Arizona yesterday and turns out where i'm staying is pretty much in Scottsdale, this is really convenient!
do you guys know when the doors open by the way?
Title: Re: 8/27/08 Melvins Phoenix, AZ show moved!
Post by: M i C H e L L e on August 26, 2008, 11:29:32 AM
Doors probably open at 7pm, show starts around 8ish.  That's just a guess though.
Title: Re: 8/27/08 Melvins Phoenix, AZ show moved!
Post by: stonerwitch on August 26, 2008, 02:47:40 PM
Was hoping to see the Melvins tomorrow night also but they're not taking stage til 10:30 pm tonight so it's gonna be a long night for us.

So fucking ready! :cheers:

Title: Re: 8/27/08 Melvins Phoenix, AZ show moved!
Post by: Smellis on August 27, 2008, 01:10:21 PM
Watch for my brother wearing his SNIVLEM shirt.  He'll be there..........

(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f122/crover/dangle.jpg)
Title: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: cara on August 27, 2008, 04:19:15 PM
Only 5 more hours to go. I'll post a review and pictures afterwards, i know some others probably will as well.

this'll be my first Melvins show and i'm super pumped to see my long time favorite band! My brother who has never listened to the Melvins (other than when i play it) is coming along.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Smellis on August 27, 2008, 04:36:00 PM
Scottsdale. This show is confusing...........how many will show up at the Brickhouse tonight??
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 07:08:08 PM
Quote from: cara on August 27, 2008, 04:19:15 PM
Only 5 more hours to go. I'll post a review and pictures afterwards, i know some others probably will as well.

this'll be my first Melvins show and i'm super pumped to see my long time favorite band! My brother who has never listened to the Melvins (other than when i play it) is coming along.
Woah, very cool, definitely write a review.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: anti-flenser on August 27, 2008, 07:27:17 PM
whoa, now - show is not at Brickhouse?!
sheesh - glad I saw that or would have been driving all the way out to bloody Brickhouse - hopefully there's no decibel/time restriction bullshit at Mart-weenie Ranch..what an honor for Melvins to play where Avril Lavigne has played-she's super hardcore "punk-rock" and says bad words
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 07:41:52 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 07:08:08 PM
Quote from: cara on August 27, 2008, 04:19:15 PM
Only 5 more hours to go. I'll post a review and pictures afterwards, i know some others probably will as well.

this'll be my first Melvins show and i'm super pumped to see my long time favorite band! My brother who has never listened to the Melvins (other than when i play it) is coming along.
Woah, very cool, definitely write a review.
Yea, reviews from Melvins virgins are usually a good read.
Almost makes me jealous.  I want to go back and see them for the first time.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 08:37:21 PM
Quote from: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 07:41:52 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 07:08:08 PM
Quote from: cara on August 27, 2008, 04:19:15 PM
Only 5 more hours to go. I'll post a review and pictures afterwards, i know some others probably will as well.

this'll be my first Melvins show and i'm super pumped to see my long time favorite band! My brother who has never listened to the Melvins (other than when i play it) is coming along.
Woah, very cool, definitely write a review.
Yea, reviews from Melvins virgins are usually a good read.
Almost makes me jealous.  I want to go back and see them for the first time.
I remember the first time I saw them, I was nervous for some reason because I'd read that they were the loudest band in the world.  :lol: :P  Great show, it was.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 08:38:08 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 08:37:21 PM
Quote from: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 07:41:52 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 07:08:08 PM
Quote from: cara on August 27, 2008, 04:19:15 PM
Only 5 more hours to go. I'll post a review and pictures afterwards, i know some others probably will as well.

this'll be my first Melvins show and i'm super pumped to see my long time favorite band! My brother who has never listened to the Melvins (other than when i play it) is coming along.
Woah, very cool, definitely write a review.
Yea, reviews from Melvins virgins are usually a good read.
Almost makes me jealous.  I want to go back and see them for the first time.
I remember the first time I saw them, I was nervous for some reason because I'd read that they were the loudest band in the world.  :lol: :P  Great show, it was.
I wish I could remember my first time.......
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: FartLips on August 27, 2008, 08:47:25 PM
Quote from: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 08:38:08 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 08:37:21 PM
Quote from: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 07:41:52 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 07:08:08 PM
Quote from: cara on August 27, 2008, 04:19:15 PM
Only 5 more hours to go. I'll post a review and pictures afterwards, i know some others probably will as well.

this'll be my first Melvins show and i'm super pumped to see my long time favorite band! My brother who has never listened to the Melvins (other than when i play it) is coming along.
Woah, very cool, definitely write a review.
Yea, reviews from Melvins virgins are usually a good read.
Almost makes me jealous.  I want to go back and see them for the first time.
I remember the first time I saw them, I was nervous for some reason because I'd read that they were the loudest band in the world.  :lol: :P  Great show, it was.
I wish I could remember my first time.......
i remember very well. crover came out and i was like "what the hell?" its been that way ever since. :D
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 09:47:26 PM
Quote from: OLD FART LIPS on August 27, 2008, 08:47:25 PM
Quote from: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 08:38:08 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 08:37:21 PM
Quote from: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 07:41:52 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 07:08:08 PM
Quote from: cara on August 27, 2008, 04:19:15 PM
Only 5 more hours to go. I'll post a review and pictures afterwards, i know some others probably will as well.

this'll be my first Melvins show and i'm super pumped to see my long time favorite band! My brother who has never listened to the Melvins (other than when i play it) is coming along.
Woah, very cool, definitely write a review.
Yea, reviews from Melvins virgins are usually a good read.
Almost makes me jealous.  I want to go back and see them for the first time.
I remember the first time I saw them, I was nervous for some reason because I'd read that they were the loudest band in the world.  :lol: :P  Great show, it was.
I wish I could remember my first time.......
i remember very well. crover came out and i was like "what the hell?" its been that way ever since. :D
:lol:
I'll always associate Fart with the guy that ate lunch with the melvins at a cracker barrel. 
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 09:49:11 PM
I do remember Crover in his tighty whities with a drumstick tucked in them.  I just wish I could remember where the show was......
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 09:52:21 PM
Quote from: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 09:49:11 PM
I do remember Crover in his tighty whities with a drumstick tucked in them.  I just wish I could remember where the show was......
What year?  Month?  We could probably deduce it.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 10:05:56 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 09:52:21 PM
Quote from: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 09:49:11 PM
I do remember Crover in his tighty whities with a drumstick tucked in them.  I just wish I could remember where the show was......
What year?  Month?  We could probably deduce it.
Shit......92?  Maybe?  93? 

As far as a month, who knows.
Title: Re: 8/27/08 Melvins Phoenix, AZ show moved!
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 10:07:19 PM
Your brother is Lieutenant Dingle?!?
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 10:10:19 PM
    * January 15, 1992 Seattle, WA - Crocodile Cafe w/ Nirvana

Sacrifice/Way Of The World/ With members of Nirvana. Was anything else played???

    * March 04, 1992 Vancouver, BC - Commodore Ballroom w/ Soundgarden
    * March 05, 1992 Seattle, WA - Paramount Theater w/ Soundgarden
    * March 06, 1992 Seattle, WA - Paramount Theater w/ Soundgarden
    * March 07, 1992 Olympia, WA - The Vortex w/ Beat Happening, Witchy Poo
# February 12, 1993 Olympia, WA - Capitol Theatre
# February 13, 1993 Seattle, WA - RCKNDY

???
Title: Re: 8/27/08 Melvins Phoenix, AZ show moved!
Post by: Smellis on August 27, 2008, 10:16:22 PM
That's Dangle.  And yes, he is.     :shock:
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 10:24:32 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 10:10:19 PM
    * January 15, 1992 Seattle, WA - Crocodile Cafe w/ Nirvana

Sacrifice/Way Of The World/ With members of Nirvana. Was anything else played???

    * March 04, 1992 Vancouver, BC - Commodore Ballroom w/ Soundgarden
    * March 05, 1992 Seattle, WA - Paramount Theater w/ Soundgarden
    * March 06, 1992 Seattle, WA - Paramount Theater w/ Soundgarden
    * March 07, 1992 Olympia, WA - The Vortex w/ Beat Happening, Witchy Poo
# February 12, 1993 Olympia, WA - Capitol Theatre
# February 13, 1993 Seattle, WA - RCKNDY

???


BINGO!

I was too young to get into the other shows. 

Oh yea, and the Feb 13th '93 show is when my buddy's band opened up for them.  No Talent

I wish I could find a copy of this poster.
(http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q90/idlehanz/49119-1.jpg)

Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: FartLips on August 27, 2008, 10:27:05 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 09:47:26 PM
Quote from: OLD FART LIPS on August 27, 2008, 08:47:25 PM
Quote from: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 08:38:08 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 08:37:21 PM
Quote from: Idlehanz on August 27, 2008, 07:41:52 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 27, 2008, 07:08:08 PM
Quote from: cara on August 27, 2008, 04:19:15 PM
Only 5 more hours to go. I'll post a review and pictures afterwards, i know some others probably will as well.

this'll be my first Melvins show and i'm super pumped to see my long time favorite band! My brother who has never listened to the Melvins (other than when i play it) is coming along.
Woah, very cool, definitely write a review.
Yea, reviews from Melvins virgins are usually a good read.
Almost makes me jealous.  I want to go back and see them for the first time.
I remember the first time I saw them, I was nervous for some reason because I'd read that they were the loudest band in the world.  :lol: :P  Great show, it was.
I wish I could remember my first time.......
i remember very well. crover came out and i was like "what the hell?" its been that way ever since. :D
:lol:
I'll always associate Fart with the guy that ate lunch with the melvins at a cracker barrel. 
dinner, to be exact. or supper, considering the fine locale. :P
Title: Re: 8/27/08 Melvins Phoenix, AZ show moved!
Post by: anaconda on August 27, 2008, 10:53:50 PM
this board is like an episode of LOST, all these red herrings.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: M i C H e L L e on August 28, 2008, 03:17:50 AM
. . . . . Just got back from the show.  I'm too wired to even attempt to sleep right now, so I'll get this review out there.  Wow, ok, well, here goes . . . .

Got there just before 8pm, and everyone was still in line waiting.  No worries, the line wasn't long, and I anticipated the doors opening shortly.  I killed time by chatting with a few board members.  Wore my Snivlem 2.0 shirt tonight, and recognized someone with the same one.  I also saw Smellis' brother, but I didn't get an opportunity to chat with him, he was busy chatting with Toshi at the moment. 
So I get in the doors, and the other Michelle secures two prime seats at the bar, with a beeline view of the stage.  I ordered a drink than headed over to visit Brian at the merch table.  Some money was exchanged, and I left needing to hit the ATM, again.   The poster for tonight is even better in person, the ink has a pertty gold sheen to it, and it'll look nice framed.  I'm not sure how I'll ship it out to some of you, the paper is nearly as thick as cardboard. 
Anyways, Porn/MSR opened up the show, which was super nice, and they totally blown me away.  Coady came out towards the end and jammed.  Him and Dale did a nice long, extended drum combo that was simply beautiful.  My heart and insides were rattling around it was so intense.  Toshi toys were nicely played, and added an erie effect with scary babies crying and other weird shit. 
It didn't take long for Big Business to come out next.  Jared had issues with his mic, too much feedback he said, and he looked pissed that the sound guy hadn't fixed it yet.  The set was the same as before, and Jared didn't engage us with any of his hilarious psychobabble.  It was a short intermission after their set, than the rest of the gang joined them on stage.  (Buzz looked thinner since I saw them in Denver towards the beginning of the tour.)  I had a prime spot where I could watch Buzz and Dale from the side, and see every move they made, with rare interruptions from others blocking my view.  Jared had trouble with his mic again, and sang very little on the first two songs.  During Honey Bucket, I believe, someone knocked over Buzz' mic stand, and Buzz gave him the evil eye but continued to play without missing a beat.  There was no other douchery going on, except a couple of drinks splashed on stage.  Every song sounded incredible thereafter, and from where I was sitting the sound wasn't bad at all for the place being so small.  Boris was unbelievable, the last verse was done way different, with Jared doing a munchkin voice behind Buzz' growls.  I was very pleased with how the show was ending.  Next I made my way back to the merch table just before the end so I could beat the crowd.  I threw down some more cash, and walked away with several posters, the bloody eagle Big Biz shirt, and one of Coady's drum heads.  All in all, I'd say this was a fuckin' great show!
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: cara on August 28, 2008, 04:09:11 AM
i just got back now!
i dont think i saw any of you there - well, maybe i did. I wouldn't know it. I was the girl with long black hair wearing a sleeveless Sleep shirt.

I got there about an hour early and killed time talking with my brother and waiting in line. As soon as i got there i hit the merch table and got a devil head shirt and a big business shirt, and i looked through all the Waltsby posters. I ended up getting one that i'll post a picture of later - there was a funny one of Steven Tyler that said something along the lines of "when will you fucking stop already?" and he talked about how bad Steven Tyler looks now like he had a ton of plastic surgery. Waltsby is a super chill/polite guy and he held all the stuff i bought until the end of the show. Too bad there's still a shortage of shirts and stuff, theres still only a couple sizes of the devil head shirts. The venue had about 1/4 of the stage cut off for minors to stand - thats where i was since i'm only 18. Nonetheless i ended up getting a great place to stand becuase all the other minors seemed to be afraid of the stage and stood back pretty far. It seemed like a lot of waiting before and after the first acts, plus the security guard kept shoving inbetween the 2 fences seperating the different sides of the floor and standing uncomfortably close. I felt like we were cuddling. He also insisted on escorting me to the bathroom since its on the "no minors" side. Other than that i felt like it was a good, intimate venue.

Big Business was awesome, the new songs they played seem excellent! I also loved the songs from Here Come the Waterworks live. When the Melvins came out Buzzo was wearing his mumu with skulls and beetles and stuff on it. They got right into it and it was unbelievable! I got some laughs from a guy that was trying to move his mouth along to every song that was played the entire night - he clearly didn't know that many of the words. The setlist has been posted so many times i won't bother going into details but all the stuff from (A)SA and NWB were great live, and obviously Boris was incredible. When they played the national anthem some dick was giving nazi signs.What else can i say? Its the fucking Melvins! I didn't think i could love them more but after seeing them live i think i do.

Oh yeah, and after the show i took a little walk around the venue to stretch my legs and ended up meeting Buzzo who was standing outside. I got a picture with him and talked to him briefly - he said he wasn't feeling very well and sounded really sick like he was losing his voice. He did a good job masking it becuase i didnt notice at all during the show!

I got a couple other decent pictures (mostly blurry ones) that i'll definitly post later, once i get back to Canada. Anyways I'm still fucking blown away! This is the best show i've ever been to, hands down. I might add more to this review later, i can't think right now. THANKS MELVINS FOR A KICKASS NIGHT!

Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: norecess on August 28, 2008, 04:41:24 AM
THANKS FOR THE REVIEWS, WOO-HA!
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 28, 2008, 06:52:18 AM
Great reviews! THanks!
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Smellis on August 28, 2008, 09:24:37 AM
WOW killer reviews. OK, my brother took this photo with his phone last night. What's going on here, is Buzzo's Les Paul feeling ill too? Is he playing Tim Moss' guitar in this pic?? Wow that is kind of cool. Moss has just a great growly low end evil sounding tone. I wonder what Buzz was able to get out of that thing. At least I think it's Tim's guitar.

(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f122/crover/BUZZO1.jpg)
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: M i C H e L L e on August 28, 2008, 11:52:56 AM
Oh I forgot to mention - Glen you should enjoy this.  Jared was wearing a lovely red scarf tied around his neck.  It was reminiscent of the late great Charles Nelson Riley. :D
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: cara on August 28, 2008, 12:26:12 PM
Quote from: Smellis on August 28, 2008, 09:24:37 AM
WOW killer reviews. OK, my brother took this photo with his phone last night. What's going on here, is Buzzo's Les Paul feeling ill too? Is he playing Tim Moss' guitar in this pic?? Wow that is kind of cool. Moss has just a great growly low end evil sounding tone. I wonder what Buzz was able to get out of that thing. At least I think it's Tim's guitar.


Tim was playing a Les Paul last night, wasn't he?
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Branch Breaker on August 28, 2008, 05:37:59 PM
Moss was playing the same guitar during the opening set. I'd like to know what brand it is or if it's a custom build. It had a mirrored finish everywhere (even the fretboard).
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: black stallion on August 29, 2008, 04:04:42 AM
Quote from: Branch Breaker on August 28, 2008, 05:37:59 PM
Moss was playing the same guitar during the opening set. I'd like to know what brand it is or if it's a custom build. It had a mirrored finish everywhere (even the fretboard).
from the pics i have seen Tim Moss guitar is a Travis Bean (with aluminum neck)
Title: aluminum guitar
Post by: Живојиновић on August 30, 2008, 12:00:20 PM
Here ya go, swabbies:

http://www.electricalguitarcompany.com/standard_guitar.html

Buzz took delivery of it in Atlanta. It's set up like a Les Paul. The luthier is named Kevin. I dinked around on it; I shall be ordering one next week.


Quote from: Smellis on August 28, 2008, 09:24:37 AM
WOW killer reviews. OK, my brother took this photo with his phone last night. What's going on here, is Buzzo's Les Paul feeling ill too? Is he playing Tim Moss' guitar in this pic?? Wow that is kind of cool. Moss has just a great growly low end evil sounding tone. I wonder what Buzz was able to get out of that thing. At least I think it's Tim's guitar.

(http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f122/crover/BUZZO1.jpg)

[attachment deleted by admin]
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: anaconda on August 30, 2008, 12:14:24 PM
electrical guitars?
electrical audio?

so buzz is playing one of the guitars from albini's company??
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 30, 2008, 01:51:08 PM
Woah, very cool.  A guitar made out of polished aluminum?!?  Is there a noticeable tone difference from a regular les paul?

You could blind someone playing it outside.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: FartLips on August 30, 2008, 01:52:52 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 30, 2008, 01:51:08 PM
Woah, very cool.  A guitar made out of polished aluminum?!?  Is there a noticeable tone difference from a regular les paul?

You could blind someone playing it outside.
you should check out tar the band as well.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: anaconda on August 30, 2008, 01:56:23 PM
at least buzz doesn't have to worry about the airlines
breaking this one 6 times! like his older les paul.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 30, 2008, 01:57:35 PM
Fucking airlines!  He could always buy a seat for his guitar.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 30, 2008, 02:22:17 PM
Courtesy of Mean Gene:
http://www.azcentral.com/ent/music/articles/2008/08/28/20080828melvinsreview.html



Melvins play ear-bleedingly strong set
by Joe Golfen - Aug. 28, 2008 03:30 PM
Special for The Arizona Republic

Martini Ranch took a break from its usual Scottsdale nightclub routine to bring the ear-bleeding din of The Melvins to the Valley Wednesday night. The longstanding sludge band, complete with a new bassist and a second drummer, delivered a powerfully heavy set, proving they still have what it take to put on a good show and send you home with your ears ringing.

Blending the slow burning metal of Black Sabbath and the frantic guitar work of Black Flag, The Melvins have been playing grunge since before that was even a genre. A huge influence on groups like Soundgarden and Nirvana ( Kurt Cobain was a fan of the band and friends with the members), The Melvins have taken their sound in more experimental directions on their later albums, including this year's Nude With Boots. But for all their digressions into swirling distortion and frantic drumming, the pure punk energy behind the songs still shines through.

Wednesday 's show got off to a slow start, with no one stepping onto the stage until 9:30. The first act was a guy who obviously really liked his effect pedal, and simply hit one chord on his guitar and then looped it through so many processors that in the end it sounded like that suction thing they stick in your mouth at the dentist. Even when the drummers from The Melvins climbed on stage and banged out some impressive rhythms, the tiresome guitar work had the audience shaking their heads and checking the clock.

Things improved once Big Business hit the stage. Although two-thirds of this Washington-based metal group are now official members of The Melvins, when joined by their guitarist they craft their own sound. Equal parts hardcore punk, grunge and Led Zeppelin-era metal, the trio powered out a muscular set., characterized by quick, finger-stretching riffs and bassist Jared Warren's echoing growl. The crowd was slow to pick up on the group's heavy tunes, but Big Business eventually had heads bobbing and fists flying through the air.

Having a little troubling hoisting himself onto the stage, guitarist and lead singer Buzz Osborne eventually stumbled into the spotlight and waved to the crowd. Wearing a black robe and sporting his characteristic shock of white hair, Osborne (aka King Buzzo) grinned menacingly as he picked up his chrome guitar. Drummer Dale Crover was joined by Coady Willis of Big Business, and Warren arrived on stage as the bassist, now wearing a white shirt, purple scarf and a bald wig.

Wasting no time, The Melvins immediately launched into their face-melting set, with Osborne and Warren buzzing through distortion-soaked tunes. Crover and Willis pounded their drums in unison, making for a cool mirrored effect and an incredibly powerful sound. Willis managed to keep up with Crover's erratic, high-energy beats, allowing the drummers to musically steal the show from their worthy bandmates.

The high-energy set included both the group's trippy new material and plenty of straightforward tunes from their classic album Houdini. The crowd went nuts the minute Osborne hit the stage, screaming and cheering as King Buzzo hammered away at his guitar, and no one seemed to mind that he looked like Uncle Fester in a fright wig. Although the tight security squelched any attempts at a mosh pit, the audience buzzed with energetic tension, occasionally erupting in a slew of people slamming into each other.

Playing like the seasoned pros they are, Osborne and Crover managed impressive changes in song dynamics and other musical feats, such as dropping a frantic riff into a quiet military beat in a quick second. Their songwriting hasn't become much more sophisticated over time, but their ability to play their instruments has been refined to an art.

The tunes may be lowbrow, but bands like The Melvin helped shape the sounds of the past two decades worth of punk rock, grunge and heavy metal. Their hard hitting show proved that time can't slow this band down, as they jumped from one bruising genre to the next with ease. And, of course, they still play everything at full volume.

See concert photos







http://swordfishblog.wordpress.com/2008/08/28/reviewer-spotlight-the-melvins-gluey-porch-treatments/


Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: M i C H e L L e on August 30, 2008, 03:44:48 PM
I don't like that guy.  He wrote that review like he was writing a freshman term paper on the Melvins.  He is certianly not an avid listener, and this was most obviously his first show.  He's probably used to going to Martini Ranch for their "Metal" night, and he happened to stubble in when there was actually real metal playing.  The only portion of this article that was amusing was how he thought Jared was wearing a bald wig. :lol:
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: cara on August 30, 2008, 05:46:13 PM
you're right about that.
"The first act was a guy who obviously really liked his effect pedal, and simply hit one chord on his guitar and then looped it through so many processors that in the end it sounded like that suction thing they stick in your mouth at the dentist. "
FUCKIN' EH, WHERES THE SHREDDING AND VAN HALEN COVERS?

it also annoyed me how he referred to grunge as if its a legitimate genre. There were some cool pictures, though.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: anaconda on August 30, 2008, 07:31:26 PM
and who is this in the back lower right wearing a snivlem??

(http://www.azcentral.com/php-bin/commphotos/view.php?id=187329)
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on August 30, 2008, 08:53:26 PM
smellis' brother?
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: anaconda on August 30, 2008, 09:23:03 PM
ahhh!!
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: M i C H e L L e on August 30, 2008, 09:45:40 PM
I think it's Greenguy.  :-s
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Smellis on August 30, 2008, 09:51:49 PM
It's not my brother. He was stage right, in front of Buzz! Don't see him though.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: cara on September 01, 2008, 01:47:49 PM
here's my pictures from the show! just uploaded them. most of them are terrible but i thought the one of Jared is pretty epic looking.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v344/cara102/Phoenix0808035.jpg)

(http://thesickos.free.fr/Phoenix0808036.jpg)

(http://thesickos.free.fr/Phoenix0808037.jpg)

(http://thesickos.free.fr/Phoenix0808038-1.jpg)

and THE KING AND I! i promise i'm not actually copping a feel.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v344//Phoenix0808039.jpg)

Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: norecess on September 01, 2008, 01:52:13 PM
Wow, that photo of Jared is really cool, thanks!
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on September 01, 2008, 02:19:23 PM
Are you grabbing Buzz's bum?!? YOU ARE!

It looks like he's giggling in the last picture.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on September 01, 2008, 02:30:17 PM
What Walsby poster did you get?
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: cara on September 01, 2008, 02:54:51 PM
i said i wasn't grabbing his ass, goddammit! :lol:
i think he was giggling becuase my brother couldnt figure out my camera and we had to stand like that forever waiting for him to take the picture. this is my Waltsby:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v344/cara102/Waltsby-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: glen on September 01, 2008, 05:56:57 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on September 01, 2008, 02:19:23 PM
Are you grabbing Buzz's bum?!? YOU ARE!

It looks like he's giggling in the last picture.

he's smiling because that is the best looking yahoo thats come up to him and said "dude... can I get a picture?" all tour.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: anaconda on September 01, 2008, 06:04:34 PM
put it back in your pants.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Smellis on September 01, 2008, 09:39:01 PM
He really does look like he is starting to feel ill there. He just looks out of sorts, not his usual blank stare look. That's cool he took the time for a photo even when he was sick!
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: glen on September 02, 2008, 07:26:21 AM
Quote from: anaconda on September 01, 2008, 06:04:34 PM
put it back in your pants.

oh come on now.   I kept it in complete good taste.  spoke(posted) in a complete factual manner.
surprisingly enough I had no vulgar intentions.

but the facts are the facts.   if you were buzz osborne and you had 46 different dink-wad dorky guys approaching you every night and huddling close for a picture you'd be damn glad to get a lovely young lady asking for that same huddle.   no innuendos intended.


so,  condy...    hows about a little internet snooping for your old pal glenny?  huh? huh?  you got the touch!  
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: bUTTHOLEmAN on September 02, 2008, 11:12:39 AM
What's that bottom line say?!?  Anaconda touched Glen????

:shock: :shock: :shock: :o

(http://www.panopticist.com/graphics/badtouchweekly.jpg)
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: anaconda on September 02, 2008, 11:17:18 AM
Please seek help.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: FartLips on September 02, 2008, 11:54:09 AM
Quote from: anaconda on September 02, 2008, 11:17:18 AM
Please seek help.
my help! :twisted:
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: black stallion on September 02, 2008, 12:02:14 PM
Quote from: bUTTHOLEmAN on September 02, 2008, 11:12:39 AM
What's that bottom line say?!?  Anaconda touched Glen????

:shock: :shock: :shock: :o

(http://www.panopticist.com/graphics/badtouchweekly.jpg)
:lol: :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Idlehanz on September 02, 2008, 03:40:52 PM
That pic of Jared is great.  Good one!
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: FartLips on September 02, 2008, 04:57:35 PM
i like all of your pics, cara!
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: ___-----_____------_____ on September 02, 2008, 06:03:39 PM
Quote from: anaconda on August 30, 2008, 07:31:26 PM
and who is this in the back lower right wearing a snivlem??

(http://www.azcentral.com/php-bin/commphotos/view.php?id=187329)

very interesting.  the guy to his right w/ the HD shirt is one of my closest friends - Ron, but he wasn't with him.
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: Idlehanz on September 02, 2008, 08:25:14 PM
The most interesting thing about that picture is how damn bright the room is.  I've never seen a room the Melvins played in that bright.  Was that just a well timed pic?
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: M i C H e L L e on September 02, 2008, 08:51:58 PM
Hmm, I didn't see that side of the room during the show, but for being such a small place they had a lot of lighting.  Lot's of stage lights, as you can see in the picture. 
Title: Re: Phoenix, AZ 27.8.08 @ Martini Ranch
Post by: m3kcomp on September 02, 2008, 11:16:00 PM
that picture of Buzz after the show is probably the most moving image I've ever seen of him. He's clearly not feeling well, but mustered up a smile...

there's something so human about him with his bag, his mumu all rolled up under his arm, just trying to get going...

looks like he went with a much lighter mumu on this date, def. a shorter one...he must have been feeling real shitty to not go full on death mumu.