With our free press under threat and federal funding for public media gone, your support matters more than ever. Help keep the LAist newsroom strong, become a monthly member or increase your support today during our fall member drive.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
The Movies - Based On A True Story | Abnormally Epic
()
Artist: The Movies
Album: Based On A True Story
Label: Self Released
Release Date: May 2008
The Movies are the most enigmatic entity l've ever stumbled across. They are simply legendary in Los Angeles. Fans practically worship the ground that front man Timothy James walks on. Or at least that’s what I’ve witnessed. Regardless, there’s a barefaced glory and honor that comes along with calling yourself a fan of the Movies.
The band is entirely idealized—purported to be larger than life. And while this sort of obsessive quality has debunked many artists in the long run, it seems to, oddly enough, sustain the Movies. For it is their rebellious disposition, unwavering confidence and, furthermore, their imperfection that generates endless intrigue.
Support for LAist comes from
And nothing expresses this peculiar idea more succinctly than their latest nine-song endeavor, Based On A True Story. Songs like the lionhearted “Missed Opportunities,” the awesomely disdainful “When I Was In Nam” and the surprisingly even-tempered “Get Your Macho Out” are inordinately anthemic.
The Movies - "When I Was In Nam"
Yet, ultimately, the underlying notion of otherness is solidified in James' nonsensical quavering, which is delivered without a shadow of a doubt. Even the most seemingly fatuous moments--like closing out "Tired Of Being Superstitious" with: "Pedro Martinez says you make your own luck"--are to be taken seriously.
All in all, Based On A True Story is a dazzling synth-heavy testament to, what has proved to be, an interminable reign over the fringe. There's certainly no rhyme or reason, but their songs speak to you on a very fundamental level.
At LAist, we believe in journalism without censorship and the right of a free press to speak truth to those in power. Our hard-hitting watchdog reporting on local government, climate, and the ongoing housing and homelessness crisis is trustworthy, independent and freely accessible to everyone thanks to the support of readers like you.
But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
Chip in now to fund your local journalism
(
LAist
)
Trending on LAist
-
A tort claim obtained by LAist via a public records request alleges the Anaheim procurement department lacks basic contracting procedures and oversight. -
Flauta, taquito, tacos dorados? Whatever they’re called, they’re golden, crispy and delicious. -
If California redistricts, the conservative beach town that banned LGBTQ Pride flags on city property would get a gay, progressive Democrat in Congress. -
Most survivors of January's fires face a massive gap in the money they need to rebuild, and funding to help is moving too slowly or nonexistent. -
Kevin Lacy has an obsession with documenting California’s forgotten and decaying places. -
Restaurants share resources in the food hall in West Adams as Los Angeles reckons with increasing restaurant closures.
Best of LAist