Napalm Death, Melvins & Weedeater @ The Underground

Of course I'm going to see the Melvins if they come to town.  What I don't understand is why doesn't everybody.

Eric and I got to the Underground just in time to catch the last few songs of Weedeater.  The Underground is already crowded, as we're assaulted by the heavy, sludgy sounds of Weedeater.  I'm not sure if the audience reaction had been bad before we arrived, or if sarcasm was ruling, but the lead singer basically told everyone to fuck off before plowing into their last song.

Weedeater Setlist

Not since before the boys were born (actually it was the night before I found out we were having twins) have I seen the Melvins play with 2 drummers, but Cody is back with the band again, and the Melvins are ready to play.  Buzz looked like he was in a good move (I've never seen him use all of the stage so much).  Steve McDonald was his usual effervescent self, making it hard to determine where you should be watching - who was having the best time on stage?  The double drum opening of Billy Fish was spectacular.  It's a shame Dale and Cody weren't on risers because, even at 6"2, I was having trouble seeing them.  That mirrored rhythm is a sight to be seen....and heard.  Honeybucket was the best, as always.  It's a favorite all time song of mine, and I'd have happily come along just to hear that song.  So Fast.  So offbeat.  So Nonsensical.  So Good.  This is my 11th time seeing the Melvins, and while I don't know song names (or keep up with their extended catalogue of work) every show is a good one.  Dare I say this is one of the best I've seen.

Melvins Setlist

I've confessed to being there for the Melvins and was still in an amazement daze when Napalm Death hit the stage.  Their extremely heavy style is not one I've really been into, ever, but am always happy to give a band a listen to.  What I didn't realize was that they are English, and Barney Greenway's Birmingham accented talking voice just doesn't come close to to the sound of his singing voice.  He was into it from the start, lapping around the stage, singing like a man possessed.  Napalm Death aren't for me, and we (2 old guys with kids that need to get up for school in the morning) left after about 5 songs.  Everybody else in there were just getting warmed up, and I feel those die hard fans weren't about to be disappointed.

Napalm Death Setlist

Writing this review happens at the same time the Melvins announce another tour, this time playing with Redd Kross (again) up in Asheville in October.  I feel a road trip coming on.

The Crap Facts

This is my 517th concert.
This is my 12th concert at The Underground.
This is my 115th concert in Charlotte.
This is my 138th concert in North Carolina.
This is my 317th concert in the USA.
Weedeater are the 601st band I've seen.

This is my 11th Melvins concert.

Napalm Death are the 602nd band I've seen.