The Mekons are one of the longest-running and most prolific of the first-wave British punk bands and we were proud to welcome them as our guests at Gatos Trail. In between shows at some great area venues, including the legendary Pappy & Harriets, we got to work on their next full length album titled - Deserted.  “What a lovely time we had with Dan Joeright in Yucca Valley, we were really happy with the outcome of Deserted. (Gatos Trail) the studio was a great place to record and the views across the Joshua Tree desert can’t be beat. A truly original experience.” ~ Sally Timms.

The freedom in their creativity was inspiring; writing and recording around the campfire, rapid fire instrument and studio set up changes, group vocals, ancient sea shanties transforming into desert space rock...  The Mekons' instrumentation ranges from traditional guitar, bass & drums to violin, accordion & saz played by Lu Edmonds (The Dammed & Public Image Limited).  In addition, we were able to provide some barely tunable, funky acoustic guitars and some found sound percussion just for a little extra flavor.  The Mekons session will be one that the Gatos Trail family will always hold dear. This quote and it's author says it all: "The Mekons are the most revolutionary band in the history of Rock 'n' Roll"~ Lester Bangs.