What surprise could still come with the 27th album? But in the press release for “Tarantula Heart” (Ipecac), exactly this is announced: It’s said to be the most unusual album by the Melvins so far. Let’s check that out.
First, the basic premise. That’s really unusual. Instead of going into the studio as a band with finished songs, King Buzzo had his drummer Dale Crover jam with guest Roy Mayorga (among others, Stone Sour, Ministry) and Steven Shane McDonald. King Buzzo then assembled the pieces into songs afterwards.
The mishmash is perhaps most evident in “She’s Got Weird Arms.” A challenging piece of music, but somehow satisfying too. But back to the beginning. There, “Pain Equals Funny” awaits, the centerpiece of the album.
Nineteen minutes long, almost exactly half of the total runtime. Outrageously accessible at first, the song transforms into a multi-headed beast. Psychedelic, offbeat, insanely good.
“Working The Ditch” is more of a classic Melvins fare, but also has a psychedelic twist. Overall, we feel at home. What still surprises: Even over 40 years after their formation, the Melvins are still producing relevant music.
Melvins – Tarantula Heart: Extraordinary. – RIFL
