This trope of a media-shy, or reluctant, 'indie' band at the mercy of a overzealous 'industry' type names a particular site of anxiety for the 'fans' of such bands.
From Yo La tengo's "Sugarcube" to Yacht's "Summersong," the trope reveals the anxiety of authenticity such bands encounter as they seek to stay true to their so-called loyal fans.
On the other hand, it presents a kind of virginal, or moral, aura to the band for those who perhaps are coming to the act for the first time; a humble indication that there is indeed something charming and distinct about the band. At the level of desire, the video says: 'my girl looks best when she doesn't wear makeup at all, none at all."
It is a particularly annoying attempt to sublimate participation, or ambition, within the hilarity and giddiness associated with pulling one over on the Man, something not unlike stealing something unnecessary or someone's father wearing board shorts. For a precedent, think Br'er Rabbit and the briar patch, or of the way an ex-partner flirts with you in a way that obscures the fact that they are now fucking someone else.
1 comment:
This trope of a media-shy, or reluctant, 'indie' band at the mercy of a overzealous 'industry' type names a particular site of anxiety for the 'fans' of such bands.
From Yo La tengo's "Sugarcube" to Yacht's "Summersong," the trope reveals the anxiety of authenticity such bands encounter as they seek to stay true to their so-called loyal fans.
On the other hand, it presents a kind of virginal, or moral, aura to the band for those who perhaps are coming to the act for the first time; a humble indication that there is indeed something charming and distinct about the band. At the level of desire, the video says: 'my girl looks best when she doesn't wear makeup at all, none at all."
It is a particularly annoying attempt to sublimate participation, or ambition, within the hilarity and giddiness associated with pulling one over on the Man, something not unlike stealing something unnecessary or someone's father wearing board shorts. For a precedent, think Br'er Rabbit and the briar patch, or of the way an ex-partner flirts with you in a way that obscures the fact that they are now fucking someone else.
Post a Comment