Echoes of a Drummer

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MOVIE REVIEW
Louder Than You Think: A Lo-Fi History Of Gary Young and Pavement
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): Jed I. Rosenberg
Where To Watch: in select theaters starting October 3, 2024, with a digital release December 10

RAVING REVIEW: Step right up to the drumbeat of LOUDER THAN YOU THINK: A LO-FI HISTORY OF GARY YOUNG AND PAVEMENT, a voyage that weaves through Gary Young's turbulent life. As the original and chaotic drummer of the indie rock band Pavement, Young's influence on music is undeniable, though his journey was fraught with highs and lows. This documentary, directed by Jed I. Rosenberg, delves deep into the raw, gritty soundscapes and onstage mayhem that defined Young's career and shaped the band's iconic status. To be clear, you don’t have to be familiar with Pavement or Gary Young to truly appreciate this unique experience!

Young's life before Pavement was a tapestry of odd jobs and musical gigs, drawing the picture of a man living on the edge of society. His approach to music was anything but traditional, embracing a rugged, unpolished sound that eventually became the hallmark of Pavement. Yet, his unpredictable antics during shows—like tossing vegetables to the audience or attempting audacious acrobatics—cemented his legacy as both a memorable performer and a liability.

The film portrays Young as a dual force: the catalyst for Pavement's early triumphs and the architect of his “downfall.” Rosenberg contrasts Young's flamboyant escapades with the more grounded reflections of bandmates Stephen Malkmus and Scott Kannberg. This dynamic paints Young as a captivating yet unreliable storyteller whose larger-than-life persona often obscured his vulnerabilities and professional hurdles.

As the story unfolds, Young's growing alcohol dependency and erratic behavior begin to fray the fabric of band relationships, his drive for commercial success through premature label deals further straining ties and overshadowing his musical contributions. But the story of LOUDER THAN YOU THINK doesn’t end with his departure from the band. The documentary explores Young's later projects, including his solo album ‘Hospital’ for the Criminally Insane and the quirky hit “Plant Man,” showcasing his enduring influence and unique charm. The film balances acclaim for Young's musical innovations with a candid examination of the personal toll of his lifestyle.

A touching thread throughout the documentary is its focus on Young’s relationship with his wife, Geri Bernstein Young. Geri's insights give us a closer look at Gary, struggling to balance his creative impulses with personal demons. Geri's constant support offers a poignant contrast to the stark realities of life with Young, deepening his portrayal and highlighting the complexities of their intertwined lives.

For Pavement fans and newcomers alike, LOUDER THAN YOU THINK provides a compelling portrait of an era and an artist who helped to shape indie music. The documentary navigates Young's stormy life with empathy and a critical eye, avoiding simple glorification or condemnation.

Embodying the quintessential rock-and-roll spirit, Gary Young is portrayed not merely as a tragic figure but as a complex individual who often surrenders to life’s chaotic rhythms, sometimes to his own detriment. LOUDER THAN YOU THINK is a comprehensive exploration of Young’s impact on music, tumultuous personal life, and enduring legacy. This documentary resonates with the viewer long after the credits roll, inviting them to reflect on the essence of creativity, the allure of fame, and the fine line between genius and self-destruction.

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[photo courtesy of FACTORY 25]

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