About This Footage
This footage is a rare gem from the archives, capturing The Sound's poignant cover of John Wesley Harding's "There's a Starbucks (Where the Starbucks Used to Be)". At first glance, this might seem like an incongruous title for a song by a band that never achieved mainstream success. But scratch beneath the surface and you'll find a rich tapestry of post-punk sensibilities, woven from the threads of art rock and new wave.
Recorded in 1982, during The Sound's most critically acclaimed period, this clip is a testament to the band's ability to distill the essence of their influences into something uniquely their own. Formed in 1979 by guitarist Adrian Borland, The Sound was one of the pioneering bands of the UK post-punk scene. With their dark, brooding soundscapes and introspective lyrics, they carved out a niche for themselves alongside The Cure and Joy Division.
What makes this clip so remarkable is its rarity. Only a handful of live performances from this era have survived, making "There's a Starbucks (Where the Starbucks Used to Be)" a prized find for fans and collectors alike. This song, in particular, showcases The Sound's ability to reimagine John Wesley Harding's original – a haunting ballad that had been released over two decades prior.
As you watch this clip, pay attention to Adrian Borland's raw, emotive vocals as he conveys the sense of longing and loss that permeates the song. His guitar work is equally impressive, weaving a complex tapestry of sounds that underscores the emotional intensity of the performance. The Sound's music was never about flashy virtuosity or showmanship; instead, they focused on crafting songs that were both deeply personal and universally relatable.
This clip also offers a fascinating glimpse into the post-punk era, an era marked by experimentation and innovation in sound. Bands like The Sound pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in popular music, incorporating elements of art rock, new wave, and gothic rock into their work. Their influence can be heard in later bands such as Interpol and The National.
The Sound's discography is relatively small, but each release has its own unique character. "The Sound of His Own Voice", the album from which this clip comes, is often cited as one of the band's best works. Recorded during a period of great turmoil for Borland – who struggled with depression and addiction throughout his life – the album is marked by a sense of introspection and vulnerability.
As you watch "There's a Starbucks (Where the Starbucks Used to Be)", you'll be struck by the raw emotion that pours out of every note, every lyric. This is music that wears its heart on its sleeve, unafraid to confront the darkness and uncertainty that lies at the edge of human experience. It's a testament to The Sound's enduring legacy – a band that may not have achieved mainstream success, but left an indelible mark on the post-punk landscape.
The final shot of this clip is of Adrian Borland standing alone on stage, his eyes closed as he pours out his heart through song. It's a moment that will stay with you long after the music ends – a poignant reminder of the power of music to capture the human experience in all its complexity and beauty.
Curated from public records and music databases.
