Concert Review: The Jesus and Mary Chain

Slam dancin’ in the name of Jesus? What the hell is going on in Salt Lake?

The Reid brothers are not the antichrist. In fact, the show was the alternative religious event of the 90s. Wrapped in a thick veil of smoke, darkness and enigmatic mystique, the Chain delivered a set of underground radio favorites and songs from the new LP, Automatic, including: “Sidewalking,” “Head On,” “Who Do You Love,” “April Skies” and “Kill Surf City.” Loud and distorted, we still find it hard to hear weeks later, but the cheerful ringing in our ears reminds us of penetrating guitar riffs, razor smooth vocals and a steady drum beat. The band kept their distance from the audience—Jim never speaking and William not looking up at all from his guitar. Totally engrossed in their art, they left all communication to the guitar. Totally engrossed in their art, they left all communication to the music. The crowd understood, moving and slamming without restraint. Violence? No. Just an expression of gratitude for an excellent gig. “We don’t think about ‘our music’ being accessible or alternative or any other category,” explains Williams. “If you start thinking like that, you’re lost.”

Smile! Jesus Loves You!

Take a look at these other concert reviews:
fIREHOSE: Best of the Shows 1989
Verbal Assault—Twice As Nice