Kevin Shields

BEAUTIFUL NOISE is an in-depth exploration of a music movement in the late twentieth century, a fascinating period when some innovative musicians mixed guitar noise into conventional pop song structures while maintaining a philosophy of letting the music speak for itself. Although many of the people interviewed are notoriously press shy they have opened up about their music and experiences from over 20 years ago, how they defied the rules and became sonic innovators that have inspired so many.

Rare pro-shot video of an interview and performance by the group

The American indie rock band “Dinosaur Jr.” is a radical group with an unmistakeable sound. The film tells the story the three charismatic guys in the band: J. Mascis (vocals, guitar), Lou Barlow (bass) and Murph (drums).

Live at Liberty Lunch, Austin, 8th February 1992

From myth to legend Rowland Howard appeared on the early Melbourne punk scene like a phantom out of Kafkaesque Prague or Bram Stoker’s Dracula. A beautifully gaunt and gothic aristocrat, the unique distinctive fury of his guitar style shot him directly into the imagination of a generation. He was impeccable, the austerity of his artistry embodied in his finely wrought form, his obscure tastes and his intelligently wry wit. He radiated a searing personal integrity that never seemed to tarnish. Despite the trials and tribulations of his career, in an age of makeover and reinvention, Rowland Howard never ‘sold out’. With recent and moving interviews, archival interviews and other fascinating and original footage, AUTOLUMINESCENT traces the life of Rowland S Howard. Capturing moments with the man himself and intimate missives from those who knew him behind closed doors; words and images etch light into what has always been the mysterious dark.

London 15.12.91

Captured from a spot on the floor. Considering the angle, this isn’t that bad of a recording. There are plenty of great close ups. Unfortunately the audio track is somewhat distorted. Poorly transferred from a low generation source.

Filmed during their 2005 reunion tour, this release captures the sonic guitar assaults of Dinosaur Jr. onstage, playing the songs "Gargoyle," "Little Fury Things," "Just Like Heaven," and more. Also included is rare behind-the-scenes footage featuring the band, as well as interviews with Kim Gordon and Thurston Moore (Sonic Youth), Mike Watt (The Minutemen), and guitarist Steve Albini.

Traces the history and mechanics of the guitar riff over 60 years from the 1950s, from Chuck Berry through Hank Marvin, Black Sabbath and others to the White Stripes. Featuring interviews with some of the core arbiters of change and new techniques.