Buster Keaton films are the very definition of classic; they are time machines to an era of simplicity and authenticity, and I am always struck by how real it all seems, despite the obvious ridiculousness of the plots and slapstick. This was filmmaking in its purest magic, before special effects became the attraction. It is the characters and the core of their actions, be they brutal physical comedy or tender facial expressions, that hold our attention and connect with an audience a century later.
Thia week I attended two evenings of the New York Guitar Festival featuring seven Buster Keaton films accompanied by different musical acts. Each artist’s take was unique and brought a fresh and live element to this classic artwork. Some of the musicians added atmosphere through propulsive rhythm or gorgeous acoustic sounds or electric feedback and synced to the action of the film at various moments. The films are short and fast-paced, with just enough time to get a sense of the musical style before the next act. It was hosted by the famous voice of NPR, John Schaeffer, who conducted an interview with each of the musicians about their approach to the project. Great acts that I had heard before included Kaki King, Keller Williams and Lee Ranaldo of Sonic Youth (who hung his guitar from the rafters and swung it over the audience as he smacked it with his hands, violin bows and drum sticks) while I was introduced to other great music by Buke and Gass (playing Baritone Ukulele and Guitar-Bass), Redhooker and my Brightest Diamond. Everyone found something in the films and amplified it with their music. Since my amazing experiences watching Philip Glass perform his score to Dracula in 2000 and Sufjan Stevens perform to film of the BQE in 2007, I have been on a quest seeking great unions of sound and visuals. These two evenings were memorable and inspiring additions to my collection.