Brainiac: Transmissions After Zero

I had the pleasure of seeing Brainiac several times, including the last time they played in Columbus and always was amazed at the brilliance of Timmy and the whole band. I thought I knew everything there was to know about the band but was happy to learn even more in this documentary. I'm watching for the second time and both times have been filled with happy memories and sadness over the potential that was lost. Amazing film!

I was concerned that it would be a mythologization of Tim Taylor, Brainiac's late lead. I was dreading that, in fact.

The documentary mythologizes Taylor, but at the same time demonstrates that, after all these years, he deserves it. He's one of the most unique and brilliant rock musicians of all time, and it's a damn shame that almost no one outside of this little indie rock scene knows it.

I've heard a few Brainiac songs here and there, but never fully got into them. Seeing this definitely has me interested in not only checking out their entire discography (which was tragically short-lived), but also has given me that drive to continue working on my own music on another one of those days I otherwise would have slept away.

It's always interesting to see where life takes people after unexpected tragedy (death of the frontman) sends people off in different directions.

Brief appearances from the great Steve Albini, as well as David Yow of the Jesus Lizard and Buzz Osbourne of The Melvins. Great visual effects paired with band footage and plenty of their songs. Very cool.

8/10.