Carlton Melton @ The King Arthur Glastonbury

Until this evening I'd not been to a gig since the outbreak of 'rona', so it was a real joy to be back at my favourite pub/venue, the King Arthur in Glastonbury; to see psych rocks' finest Carlton Melton create their magic. If you get the opportunity to catch Carlton Melton live don't hesitate, you'll not be disappointed. Carlton Melton are Andy Duvall on drums and guitar, Clint Golden on bass, Rich Millman guitar and synth, and Anthony Taibi also on guitar and synth. For me the essence of Carlton Melton's music is it's immersive nature which is dialled up to 11 live. Tonight's performance epitomized that, although differently to previous shows I've attended which have had an ethereal nature, whereas tonight’s performance had a more driven nature. An evolution in sound which is reflected in their phenomenal new album 'Turn to Earth'. At the core was Andys' drumming which had an affecting tribal vibe to it, organic and shamanistic, which along with Clints' solid bass lines drove the rich rhythmic groove which under pinned this evenings' performance. If you've seen Carlton Melton live you know to strap yourself in and prepare to be taken on an aural trip, their music has the capacity to create a collective flow state, and tonight was no exception. Every track was delivered masterfully with gusto, driven hypnotic drone all solid psyche rock riffs and rhythms had the audience moving, it was smiles all round, every track receiving enthusiastic applause. Right on! Out front Richs' performance was electric, delivered through his bold and energetic stage presence, throwing himself and his guitar into the music tonight literally had him lying on the floor amongst the crowd. I know not how. Importantly though he was okay, and with smiles all round he crawled back on stage as Dead Otter's Omar Aborida picked up the guitar and filled in for him. I'd previously seen Carlton Melton as a three piece, tonight was the first time I've seen Anthony perform live; I've enjoyed his contributions in White Manna and DDT (two bands I'd thoroughly recommend), he delivered an impress live performance. The band looked like they were enjoying the performance as much as the audience were. Then sadly, all too soon, as with all good things, it was over; as the music faded we were returned to reality, all the better for our journey.

 

Genuinely you couldn't fault tonight’s performance, capital show all round, Carlton Melton were outstanding. In fact everything about this evening was perfect. I mentioned Omar, that's as Dead Otter were one of two other bands on the bill along with Thee Crow, both also acquitted themselves magnificently delivering exceptional performances. As for the Arthur I love it, great staff, friendly clientèle and a wonderful atmosphere which makes the traveller feel like a local; the sound guys do a great job too. I doff my cap to all involved in thoroughly uplifting evening; I for one feel better for it.