Buckethead- Austin Texas 3/8/19- Expression Beyond the Mask

Buckethead-

Austin Texas 7:30pm 3/8/19, on line outside EMO’s as the very authoritative man in the cowboy hat reminds us that “If you have a gun, knife, mace or anything that could hurt him or anyone, please bring it back to your car”. A slightly chub metal hipster replies with, “What about a blunt?” The Man in the hat replies, “Sharing is caring!” The eclectic line of Buckethead fans erupt.

Already the entertainment has begun. After our customary walk through the metal detectors we head inside for the show…

Most times when you see a player do their thing (especially in an intimate setting as EMO’s) and you’re in front of their naked steaming eyes, you have that extra connection. The eyes. The facial expressions from the artist that pull you into their moment and what their sharing with you and hoping you’ll buy in. Obviously, not with Buckethead. With his frozen porcelain face this is not afforded to you.

So that artist better be good. That artist HAS to be good. Buckethead did not disappoint.

Let’s put aside his technique for just a second and talk about his incredible musicality. The songs, his melodies are stirring and are really the foundation of what he is. Most people only recognize the shred (and it’s there) but there’s so much more.

Mr. Carrol (his true sir name) took us through a whirling Rock, Metal, Shred, Jazz, Funk, Punk & Electronic excursions, even visiting some old Les Paul standards and a quick trip to Disney (“It’s a small world”) all the while fusing it effortlessly making complete musical sense.

Tone? Tone for days. Chops? Chops for a lifetime. If you write Buckethead off as a novelty act or just a “Metal Guy”, you’re not really listening with intent and to be honest, Buckethead’s music needs to be listened to with intent and an open mind. You’ll be surprised with the exercise and I think you’ll be glad you did.

Mark Daven
Guitar Radio Show
3/8/19