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A legendary musical enigma was born in Houston nearly 30 years ago when The Units' Ready for the House was released in 1978. The album featured a lone vocalist and his guitar creating austere sounds that were out of reach for most rock and roll fans. Those who were interested searched in vain for information about the reclusive artist who became known as Jandek for his second release. Jandek on Corwood is the documentary tale of the man and his cult following.
The 2004 film features interviews with music aficionados and Jandek fans who attempt to unravel the shroud of mystery surrounding him. The mystery goes something like this: man records eclectic LP, record is released by obscure record label - Corwood Industries, repeat semi-annually. Oh, and don't promote yourself or the records in any way and list your label's Houston post office box as your only means of contact.
More about Jandek on Corwood after the jump.
The filmmakers' interviews provide a solid background about the time, culture and context during against which Jandek's debuted. Some points are rather interesting such as the discussion of periods in his recording style. However, the speculation regarding the artist's motivation and identity grew a bit stale for us. Houstonist was more than a bit disengaged and heading toward a nap when a new voice joined the cast.
Like E.F. Hutton, when Jandek speaks you listen. Jandek only granted two interviews during the period covered by the film one of which was a recorded telephone interview conducted by John Trubee in 1985. Trubee sticks to the directive of speaking only about the music, and Jandek fills in the details. Wanna know how he picked his moniker? Listen to the interview. The entire 49 minute dialog is included as a special feature on the DVD.
In short, the film is worth the price of the rental and a couple hours of your afternoon time. At the very least you will know more about one of Houston's legends. You may also become a fan of the music as the soundtrack - all Jandek tunes, duh - does steal the show in portions of the film. You'll be scouring the Internet for tickets to his next live show in no time.
And, Jandek, if you read this we'd love to get together for more insight about your musical direction and any info about a live show in Houston.
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Album cover from Jandek's "Follow Your Footsteps."
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The story is mighty interesting, but the documentary just kinda drones on ad infinitum with interviews talking about his music.
Without ever hearing his music, I saw him at this year's SXSW. My mind nearly exploded.
Listening to his albums is creepy as hell, but it certainly is powerful music.
heyzeus, I feel you. But, when the music is all that's public, that's what you get. I'd like to do an interview with him since he lives right around the corner from Houstonist HQ.
JB
JohnM, the music creeped me out a bit at first, but I gained a lot of appreciation for it as the movie went on. I like the recent bass heavy tracks a lot.
JB