Images: The Melvins, Helms Alee August 3, 2016 at Backstage Bar

As I walked into Backstage Bar and Billiards with the handful of die hards who got there early, I turned my eyes to the stage and noticed there were two drum sets. Although the flyer hadn’t shown an opener, there was definitely another band about to play. Even though all the TVs around the venue were playing Sid and Nancy and I was thoroughly distracted, my attention was about to be torn back to the stage by Helms Alee.

Shortly into this Seattle trio’s set, it became clear Helms Alee was a perfect pick to open for The Melvins.  I don’t know if there is a better way to say it, but these folks were just in-your-face heavy. Each member sang and chanted, bringing their own style and sound to each song. The drummer was just absolutely losing her mind behind the kit, and the whole band was mesmerizing and fun to watch. If you get the chance – check them out.

As The Melvins took the stage, the fans went wild and I saw that familiar gaze from frontman Buzz Osbourne to the crowd. I did notice that this time around not only was the bass player wearing a bedazzled shirt spelling out “bass,” but drummer Dale Crover had the same shirt spelling out “drums.” The identifying outfits weren’t the only change, though. The band’s stage presence was more in-your-face, present and chaotic than the last time I saw them.

With passion and presence in his voice, Buzz moved around quite a bit and interacted with the crowd during songs, using that maniacal gaze he is known for. At one point Dale even climbed up on his drum set and started banging on his cymbals, almost falling over, while bassist Steven McDonald jumped all over the stage flinging his hair every which way it could go. The crowd seemed to be a lot more raucous and involved this time around as well. If you haven’t seen The Melvins live, you just aren’t getting the full experience. I encourage you to check them out any chance you get.

-Anthony Constantine | https://www.facebook.com/anthonycphotography