IFC Shows an Unique Garage-Punk Band
A rock documentary, Heavy Load, on IFC showcases the lives of a middle-aged garage punk rock band. But not just any middle-aged rock band (there are a lot of them out there today, after all). The band, Heavy Load, is unique in itself as it depicts three of the five members having learning disabilities, including the drummer, Michael White, who has Down syndrome. The doc not only shows the struggles of being in a professional band but the day-to-day task of living with a disability. The band also runs a campaign, Stay Up Late, which endorses the “right to party” for those with learning disabilities.
One American review of the documentary stated:
“… a portrait of British band life: playing in smoky pubs and studios and at outdoor concerts and hustling tracks to a music publisher. And it is a portrait of a nation with social services and a public so compassionate it makes our own look heartless.”
Seems like an interesting (but debatable) jab at American society.
If you get a chance, listen to their song “We Love George Michael.” Classic punk rock.
June 24, 2008 at 7:31 am
Middle-aged Punk band? In 2008? Is that much different than being a Civil War re-enactor? You want a good music reality show, check out “Heavy Metal Jr.” on Sundance!