Pavement Doc Shocker! Schwartzman & Perry Reveal Indie Secrets!

Indie rock aficionados, rejoice! The quirky, often enigmatic, yet undeniably influential band Pavement is getting the documentary treatment. But here's a twist: the director, Alex Ross Perry, readily admits they weren't exactly his *favorite* band. Now, that's a headline grabber, isn't it?

Pavement Doc Shocker! Schwartzman & Perry Reveal I...

Perry, along with producer Robert Schwartzman, sat down on the Crew Call podcast to discuss "Pavements," a film vying for Academy Award consideration. And Perry's candidness about his personal preferences surrounding the band is, frankly, refreshing. It immediately sets the stage for a film that’s likely to be more than just a hagiographic love letter. Instead, it suggests a more nuanced and, perhaps, more critical exploration of Pavement's impact.

For those who might be scratching their heads, Pavement emerged from Stockton, California, in 1989, a time when alternative rock was exploding. But unlike many of their contemporaries who found themselves propelled to massive success – think Red Hot Chili Peppers or even the more pop-leaning bands like The Offspring – Pavement deliberately carved out their own space. They were never ones to chase the mainstream, and that's precisely what made them so appealing to a certain segment of music fans.

Consider the 90s music video landscape. A single, iconic video could make or break a band. I'm thinking of They Might Be Giants' "Don't Let's Start" or Offspring's "Come Out and Play." These videos launched those bands into the stratosphere. Pavement, on the other hand, maintained a more low-key approach, cultivating a distinct visual and stylistic identity that resonated with those seeking something a little…different. Schwartzman and Perry alluded to the band's unique position even earning them the notorious honor of being skewered by Beavis and Butthead, which, in some circles, is the ultimate badge of honor!

The fact that "Pavements" is in the running for an Oscar nomination speaks volumes about the band's enduring legacy. It’s a testament to their influence on independent music and culture. But more than that, it suggests that Perry’s unconventional approach – that of an admirer, but not necessarily a die-hard fan – might just offer a fresh and compelling perspective on a band that always danced to the beat of its own drum. Definitely adding this one to my watchlist!