Music: Andy Partridge
Lyrics: Andy Partridge
Vocals: Trey (lead)
Original Artist: XTC
Original Album: English Settlement (1982)
Debut: 1985-09-27
Historian: Mark Toscano
Many fans are surprised when they hear for the first time that Phish used to cover an XTC song. Although it may seem odd at first, a quick listen of the 6+ minute original on XTC’s brilliant English Settlement album will possibly clear up matters. The song is rather bizarre, featuring a complex, textured composition, witty and satirically pointed lyrics, and an open-ended invitation to jam. Phish certainly accepted that invitation on 4/29/87, which features the most notorious version of this song, which segues into a manic, extended “Dave’s Energy Guide.” Get this show – it’s some of the best early Phish around. Ironically, this would be the final known appearance of the song in the Phish setlist.
XTC "Melt the Guns"
Recommended Versions: 1986-10-31, 1987-04-29
You must be logged in to leave a comment!
Would love to hear Phish play this one again. Mike's bass intro on the aforementioned 4/29/87 version is fantastic, which of course was the way I was introduced to it. My other favorite XTC song is "Making Plans for Nigel", another potentially great cover for Phish. Here's to optimism.
Performances
Song History
Lyrics