Mudhoney
Neumos, Seattle, WA
11.14.14
The legend continues as Seattle’s one and only Mudhoney checked in once more to say hello at Neumos on Capitol Hill, time-tested as one of their favorite spots to throw it down. The rabid and loyal alike came to bid homage to these inspirational behemoths, known less for their accolades and more prominently for their seemingly unending influence on music as we know it. Aah, the rock ‘n roll stories they could tell, I’m sure. While they don’t spend as much time on the road these days, Mudhoney continues to maintain a level of control and professionalism under the lights that only comes with plenty, and I mean plenty, of practice.
A sizeable fraction of these people weren’t even alive when Mudhoney began in ’88. The upper floor of Neumos soaked into the lower floor as bodies shuffled down the stairs in anticipation of the lights coming down. Running 30 minutes late, Mudhoney began their set under bluish purple hues and amid palpable electricity. Even at a 21 and over show, the pushing and shoving in the pit started immediately and never settled down. One dude had already been kicked out for chanting repetitively like a jackass.
Long, droning guitars sounded thick and full as Mudhoney began with “Mudride,” and the fresh, vibrant sound waves shaved away the years. Neumos rattled and rumbled as the walls gave their best effort to accommodate the gritty sounds. The drums of Dan Peters thundered on. Mark Arm sounded like he was 25, and gave a fleeting “Thank you” before heading into the second song. This evening was entirely focused on the music, the same as it has always been. Only a handful of shows currently dot the calendar for Mudhoney, so if you find yourself in a position to get a ticket, do yourself a favor and get this one marked off your bucket list. Legendary.
Tonight’s first opener was Tacoma’s The Fucking Eagles, a totally rad six-piece that had jamming vibes and a ton of contributing vocals. Tom Price Desert Classic took the middle slot, coming out in full force to a house that was still filling in the corners. The lights were sparse, but the focal point was unanimously their in-your-face style. This foursome also hails from Seattle, generously doling out a sense of pride this evening to all the local attendees. This night was, in all respects, a five-star show.
Review by T. Monte
Photos by Arlene Brown
Mudhoney
