Melt & Maris

When Melt took the stage, they delivered a set that felt both tight and spontaneous, like a “groovy superorganism” in full effect (according to them, couldn’t have said it better myself.) Tracks from If There’s a Heaven, like the existential bop “Plant the Garden” and the heartfelt “Your Name,” had the audience swaying and singing along. Their sound strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and modernity, reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac while still feeling fresh and alive. It was a night that captured the joy of connection through music, with Melt weaving a vibrant tapestry of emotions that perfectly reflects the coming-of-age experience. As the last notes faded, it was clear that this band is on the verge of something big, inviting everyone to join them on this exciting journey.

If you’re unfamiliar with Melt, here is a little about each song on their new album:

1. Fake Romantic: First song on the album and my personal favorite, it talks about being involved with someone who appears to be open to a real connection but refuses to be truly vulnerable. At the same time that they lead you to believe they are being open, through romantic gestures and short moments of deep connection, they push you away in the most critical times, revealing their true intentions.“You twirl me on the subway, but keep me at an arms-length”

2. Plant the Garden: Although you wouldn’t be able to tell by the beat, this song reflects on the duality of a toxic relationship, the craving for the passionate fights but the inevitable demise of anything that isn’t cared for properly. “Plant the garden, but poison the water”

3. Your Name: This one is dark and moody as it talks about the desire to be familiar with someone, particularly the obsession and idolization that comes with falling in love with a stranger.

4. The Door: This song symbolizes reaching a pivotal moment or breakthrough, feeling hope and determination to move forward. Its about the spark of being so close to the final destination.

5. Heaven: Explores themes of longing, self-discovery, and the search for connection. Lyrically, it captures the emotional journey of navigating life's complexities and finding moments of joy amidst uncertainty. The concept of "heaven" serves as a metaphor for an ideal state of being—whether that’s a feeling of euphoria, love, or belonging.

6. Happy To Be Here: This song must be experienced live.

7. Through The Wall: The lyrics reflect a desire to connect deeply with someone, despite physical or emotional obstacles. The metaphor of "through the wall" suggests reaching out and yearning for closeness, even when there are separations that make it challenging.

8. Better Without You: Talks about how confusing it can be to desire something you know isn’t good for you.

9. The Idiot: Grapples with feelings of inadequacy and the impact of one’s actions on themselves and others. The title itself suggests a confrontation with one's own flaws and mistakes, highlighting moments of realization and the struggle to reconcile those feelings.

10. Veronica’s Apology: The song captures the emotional weight of wanting to make amends or explain oneself, highlighting the struggle of communication and the desire to bridge gaps in understanding in friendships and relationships.

11. Communion: Seems to explore the emotional tension between yearning for deeper connection and grappling with feelings of alienation, making it a reflection on the complexities of human interaction and personal growth.