'TRANCES & THE REVENGE OF THE MEKONS' w/ Sally Timms & Jon Langford
Summary
Hosts Sally Timms and John Langford of the punk band The Mekons discuss their new album *Horror*, their collaborative ethos, and the documentary *Revenge of the Mekons*. They critique the "lovable losers" narrative often applied to their career, emphasizing their resilience and political roots instead. The conversation also explores parallels with the film *Trances* and their deep connection to folk and reggae traditions.
Topics discussed
Introduction and live screening dates for the film Erg
Meeting Joe Angio and initial reactions to the documentary
The Mekons' origins and the DIY punk ethos
Regional differences in the UK punk scene
Band dynamics, luck, and the 'lovable losers' narrative
Recording with Bill Leader and folk music traditions
Discussion of the film Trances and Jil Jilaja
Creative process and the album Horror
Influence of American folk and country music scenes
Critique of standard music documentary tropes
Touring, community, and Lou Reed's legacy
Alternative lives and the human need to create
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