The Brian Jonestown Massacre live in Bristol | 2 February 2025
Posted on: 06 Dec 2024The Brian Jonestown Massacre have included Bristol in their 2025 UK tour plans and will be live at Marble Factory on Sunday 2nd February 2025.
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The Brian Jonestown Massacre: A Psychedelic Legacy in Rock Music
The Brian Jonestown Massacre (BJM), formed in San Francisco in 1990, is one of the most influential and enigmatic bands in the alternative rock and psychedelic revival scenes. Led by the charismatic and volatile Anton Newcombe, the band has built a cult following thanks to its eclectic sound, prolific output, and dramatic history. Over the decades, BJM has released a diverse catalog of music that combines 1960s psychedelia, shoegaze, and garage rock with a modern sensibility.
Formation and Early Years
Anton Newcombe founded The Brian Jonestown Massacre in the early 1990s, naming the band as a dual homage to Rolling Stones' guitarist Brian Jones and the infamous Jonestown Massacre. From the outset, Newcombe’s vision was clear: to create music that paid tribute to classic 1960s rock while pushing artistic boundaries. The band’s early releases, including Spacegirl and Other Favorites (1993) and Methodrone (1995), showcased a blend of shoegaze and psychedelic rock, earning comparisons to bands like My Bloody Valentine and The Velvet Underground.
Breakthrough and Turbulence
BJM gained wider attention with their 1996 albums Their Satanic Majesties' Second Request and Take It from the Man! These records emphasized their retro aesthetic, incorporating elements of Indian instrumentation, 12-string guitars, and sprawling, experimental arrangements. Tracks like "Anemone" became fan favorites, embodying their fusion of melancholic melodies and kaleidoscopic soundscapes.
However, the band's history is as notorious for its interpersonal drama as it is for its music. Newcombe’s perfectionism and tumultuous relationship with band members often led to infighting, walkouts, and chaotic live performances. This dynamic was famously captured in the 2004 documentary Dig! which chronicled the rivalry between BJM and fellow indie rock band The Dandy Warhols. While Dig! cast Newcombe in a polarizing light, it also solidified the band’s mythos and introduced them to a wider audience.
Prolific Output
Despite the chaos, The Brian Jonestown Massacre has been remarkably prolific. Anton Newcombe, often described as a musical savant, has overseen the release of over 20 studio albums, EPs, and compilations. Notable works include Bravery, Repetition and Noise (2001), Aufheben (2012), and Third World Pyramid (2016). Each album reflects Newcombe’s refusal to conform to industry trends, as he continually experiments with genres, languages, and production techniques.
In recent years, Newcombe has embraced a DIY ethos, recording and producing much of the band’s music in his Berlin studio. Albums like Revelation (2014) and Fire Doesn't Grow on Trees (2022) demonstrate his enduring creativity and relevance in the contemporary music landscape.
Legacy and Influence
The Brian Jonestown Massacre has left an indelible mark on modern music. Bands like The Black Angels, Tame Impala, and The War on Drugs have drawn inspiration from BJM’s psychedelic soundscapes and independent spirit. Newcombe’s relentless artistic drive and dedication to his craft have also made him a symbol of authenticity in an industry often driven by commercial considerations.
While the band has never achieved mainstream success, its enduring appeal lies in its commitment to artistic integrity and its ability to connect deeply with fans. The Brian Jonestown Massacre remains a testament to the power of music to transcend time, trends, and turmoil.
The Brian Jonestown Massacre’s journey is a story of rebellion, artistry, and resilience. Under Anton Newcombe’s guidance, the band continues to evolve, offering listeners a sonic journey that is as unpredictable as it is captivating. Whether through their music or their mythos, BJM has secured its place as a cornerstone of the psychedelic rock revival.
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