For those readers who keep up with the latest goings on in Atlantic City through the superb Boardwalk Empire, you may or may not know that the spacey, expansive theme song is performed by the Brian Jonestown Massacre (BJM). It is a fitting combination. Band leader and dictator-for-life Anton Newcombe has endured as many tough times, family schisms, peaks, troughs and fights as one Nucky Thompson. As versatile as a chameleon and obstinate as a rhino, BJM have spent the past two decades altering perceptions and influencing contemporaries in a subversive and relentless fashion. Afforded a lot less fanfare than they deserve, the group define just what indie music was coined to denote; the confusion of constant self-financed tours, experimentation, adherence to an artistic modus operandi and even temporary homelessness. Once you delve into their sprawling discography, you may never find your way back. With any luck, this article will become a handy starting point for those interested in going that little bit further. This is not the first time Newcombe and BJM have been granted exposure by those behind the camera.
Dig! (2004, dir. Ondi Timoner) followed the band and former friends The Dandy Warhols as their working and personal relationships went into terminal decline. Newcombe described the film as a betrayal; contriving to capture BJMs main man in a number of awkward and regrettable moments (diplomatically speaking). BJM are a group that see things in black and white. Its only fitting that we can do the same. Below is
Straight Up and Down (as used on Boardwalk Empire), a moment of triumph for the long-suffering band. After that, witness what BJM are more widely-known to the general public for; confusing and violent circumstances. http://youtu.be/45HPaTF0u7U http://youtu.be/jSm5optFVUw