Earth lands in Melbourne

For any experimental metal fan, Earth are a band who needs no introduction. Formed in 1989 by lead guitarist Dylan Carlson (Kurt Cobain’s best friend), the Seattle-based group pioneered the genre of drone doom with their trademark sludgy distortion, sloth-like pace and layers of sluggish feedback.

The early releases of Earth, on the US record label Sub Pop, paraded a distinctive sound which would influence noise groups such as Sunn o))) and Sleep. The apocalyptic walls of noise on albums ‘Phase 3: Thrones and Dominions and Pentastar: In The Style of Demons’ defined Carlson as a vanguard of the sludge metal scene.

After 1996, Carlson’s personal problems prompted a nine year hiatus. When he emerged from hibernation with a new lineup in 2005 to release ‘Hex; Or Printing in the Infernal Method’, the menacing heaviness that characterised Earth’s earlier work had been shed in favour of a more folky, tranquil mood. This distinct shift in sound was carried through their three subsequent albums, all of which embrace elements of jazz and a slight country ethos.

This month, Carlson will play in Melbourne for the first time, joined by band members Adrienne Davis and Don McGreevy to deliver two highly anticipated performances of Earth’s masterpieces, both new and old.  The definitive songs of Earth’s early days will be given a new flavour with modified compositions. Audiences at The Toff in Town and The Corner Hotel will be lucky to experience these special reconstructions live.

Melburnians have been waiting over twenty years to witness the glory that is Earth in the flesh. Don’t miss out on the chance to see Dylan Carlson’s innovative band showcasing some of their best songs.

WHEN: Wed Sept 12 and Sun 16 Sept
WHERE: The Toff in Town (Wed 12), Sun at The Corner Hotel (Sun 16)
WEB: thetoffintown.com and cornerhotel.com