Mudhoney – The Turf Club – St. Paul MN – October 18th 2023
Mudhoney – The Turf Club, St Paul MN – October 18th, 2023
Ryan Bresnahan
Mudhoney’s performance at The Turf Club in St. Paul, Minnesota was an electrifying experience, evoking the heyday of grunge. The audience was immersed in the unmistakable “Seattle sound” as the band effortlessly churned out their vintage grunge tunes. The overall atmosphere exuded a nostalgic, old-school “90s music venue” vibe, filled with echoes of the Sub Pop record label era. It was a night that celebrated the raw power of grunge, underscoring the enduring significance of Mudhoney’s musical legacy. Notably, to accommodate the average age of the attending fan base, the merch table even offered branded readers for Mudhoney each featuring a different band member!
The set began explosively with “Touch Me I’m Sick,” a visceral anthem that ignited the crowd into a frenzy of headbanging and moshing. Bodies surged forward, caught in the fervor of Mudhoney’s punk-infused garage rock energy.
Throughout the night, Mudhoney delivered a masterclass in raw, unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll. Songs like “Suck You Dry,” “Into the Drink,” and “I Like It Small” reverberated through the venue, each riff and drumbeat hitting with primal force. Mark Arm’s stage presence was magnetic, commanding attention with his snarls and gestures that spoke volumes about the band’s decades-long experience.
The band’s chemistry was palpable, with Guy Maddison’s thunderous bass lines and Dan Peters’ powerhouse drumming anchoring the chaos and driving the relentless pace. Steve Turner’s guitar work, ranging from blistering solos to gritty, distorted chords, showcased Mudhoney’s ability to blend aggression with melody seamlessly.
A standout moment came with “Superfuzz Bigmuff,” a nod to their influential EP that helped define the grunge sound. The crowd erupted in recognition, voices uniting in a chorus of nostalgia and admiration for the band’s pioneering role in alternative rock.
As the night progressed, The Turf Club pulsed with energy, every corner filled with the raw, unfiltered sound of Mudhoney. Each song was a reminder of the band’s impact on the music scene and their ability to connect with fans on a visceral level.
Closing with an encore that left the crowd chanting for more, Mudhoney departed the stage, leaving The Turf Club echoing with echoes of their intense performance. For those fortunate enough to be there, it was not just a concert but a testament to the enduring power of live music to stir the soul and leave an indelible mark on the heart.
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