Warning! This article has unsponsored, unfiltered tales from the Photo Pit. I’m excited to share highlights of Mosswood Meltdown, an absolute pinnacle event. I’m ever grateful for its return each year and its host, John Waters. Every band introduction deepens the realization that John Waters is a rhythmic encyclopedia of comedy and punk-rock. His historical insight melded into an intriguing rhyme, highlighting obscure details based on his personal experience. I did notice he sat down a couple of times during the 48-hour festival – giving hints of being human, which lends a very uncomfortable thought that one day we will be listening to his recordings instead of the amazing live production carefully curated for each musician.
The two-day festival held a unique version of punk rock while embracing all human inclusion, individuality, and original music. Day one began and ended with epic Beehive hairdos of Hot Laundry to the B-52s and other curiosities into wonders. Day two had a stronger focus on hardcore, grunge, and other surprises.
When speaking of hardcore, we must give a screaming shout-out to the fans dedicated to the barricade rail – Fan Warriors! Mad love for this group, who would rather suffer heat stroke than lose a moment away from the band! Your sacrifice for the experience is epic. Memorable incident when someone fell due to heat stroke, it was the crowd that asked the band for help. The band handed out ice cold water from backstage, the person recovered, and we all played on.
B-52s:
The phrase “rock-n-roll will keep you young” is true with the B52s as an example. The recorded release of “Rock Lobster” in 1978 has only improved over the past 50 years. Kate Pierson, Fred Schneider, and Cindy Wilson lead the band and a timeless loop to the beginning. Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson in a duet that stopped time. The tin roof may be rusted, but their vocals are sharp, as well as their outfits.
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Hot Laundry:
Another outstanding, vibrant musical expression that immediately connected with the crowd. Despite the baking 90-degree sweltering heat and early start time, these talented, vibrant musicians with vocals of expression had a special connection with the crowd. They all have such an outstanding stage performance supported by an upbeat, happy vibe that gave everyone a flip in their step.
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Gibby Haynes and the Paul Green Rock Academy
I love the Butthole Surfers, and to have one of the members, Paul Green, create a School of Rock Academy gives a stronger emphasis and a new level to the Punk Rock movement. Embracing individuality, having a good time, and expressing identity through music. Gibby Haynes was on the soundboard while Paul Green was directing from the pit. The music did have a taste of the Butthole Surfers vibe. Embracing the idea of individual freedom to create and perform music by escaping the expectations of others is the essence of punk rock. The crowd response was supportive, and either you like or don’t appreciate that flavor of punk but will always be supported.
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Pansy Division
Pansy Division is a cross-dressed version of the circle jerks. The music is fast and fun. They have been touring for over 30 years. As of May 2023, Pansy Division has played 976 shows. With lightening punk speed, this festival will push them closer to the 1,000 shows. Embracing the main punk-rock characteristic of open expression they are legendary in creating a new genre of punk- queercore. A very welcome return from 2022 mosswood meltdown as they continue to bedazzle the stage.
Peaches Christ Drag Contest
I am thankful this event is now shining on the mainstage— moving to the mainstage prime time from the after-festival pub last year. The shocking extravaganza was fascinating.
Pure Hell!
Lead singer Kenny “Stinker” Gordon from the original band announced, “Can you believe we just got together 90 days ago?” Ponding thought, considering the thundering talent, abundant energy, and huge smiles as if this was their first gig. The outstanding skill and talent of each member playing together unification begs one to wonder if this was created in 90 days- what happens on day 100?
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The Mummies as a headliner was perfect. They were introduced as the bastard sons of King Tut at the expense of our emotional experience. I couldn’t have laughed, cried, or screamed “Are you OK?” loud enough. It was a good time during the acceptance of madness while dancing.
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In summary, the music, food, and cool memorabilia are fabulous; however, it’s the community that continues to create this event. I noticed a single act of kindness multiplied like a happiness wave throughout the festival. Last weekend was a dead heat. Well, at least for us in California, I see you giggling at Texas and Michigan! Yet, Regardless of the initial motivation to attend, close encounter with award-winning B52s, zombie mosh with the returning Mummies, fun shake it with Big Freedia, or the resurrection of the 1978 Pure Hell, one will ALWAYS leave gifted with more than anticipated.
The people who make the event possible – The Fans!
