About This Footage
This clip is a rare gem that shines a light on the vibrant music scene in Minneapolis during the 1970s. The footage features Lori Barbero from Babes in Toyland discussing the city's music history, specifically the influence of New Wave and Punk Rock on local bands. What makes this clip significant is its connection to the Longhorn Bar, a pivotal venue that showcased young original local bands.
At the time it was filmed, Talk Talk had not yet formed, as they wouldn't emerge until 1981. The band's synth-pop sound would later gain international recognition with hits like "Talk Talk", "Today", and "Such a Shame". However, in this context, the focus is on Lori Barbero's experiences in Minneapolis during the 1970s, not on the British post-rock band.
The Longhorn Bar was a hub for local bands to perform, influenced by the emerging New Wave and Punk Rock movements from New York and England. This clip provides a unique glimpse into the city's music scene, highlighting the impact of these genres on young musicians in Minneapolis. Lori Barbero's discussion about The Suburbs, Curtiss A, and the Suicide Commandos offers insight into the local bands that were part of this movement.
Babes in Toyland, formed by Lori Barbero, Kat Bjelland, and Maureen Herman, would later become a prominent band in the 1990s grunge scene. However, in this clip, we see a younger Lori Barbero discussing her early experiences with music in Minneapolis. Her comments about the influence of hardcore on local bands provide context for the city's thriving music scene during the 1970s.
The clip is also notable for its connection to Twin Cities PBS, which produced the Minnesota Music History series. This organization has been documenting and preserving the region's rich musical heritage for decades. The footage serves as a testament to their efforts in capturing the stories of local musicians and venues that have contributed to Minneapolis' unique music history.
Watching this clip will give viewers a deeper understanding of the city's music scene during the 1970s, its connection to New Wave and Punk Rock, and the impact on local bands like Babes in Toyland. The conversation with Lori Barbero offers a glimpse into the early days of the band and their experiences performing at venues like the Longhorn Bar.
The clip's rarity is also worth noting. With only 2:59 minutes of footage, it provides a concise yet informative look at the Minneapolis music scene during this period. The brevity of the clip makes it all the more valuable as a historical document, offering a unique perspective on the city's musical heritage.
In conclusion, this clip is a significant addition to the Minnesota Music History series, providing insight into the city's vibrant music scene in the 1970s. Lori Barbero's discussion about the Longhorn Bar and local bands like The Suburbs and Curtiss A offers a unique perspective on the impact of New Wave and Punk Rock on Minneapolis' musical landscape.
The clip ends with a specific detail that stays with the viewer - the mention of Babes in Toyland's formation, which would later become a prominent band in the 1990s grunge scene. This image lingers long after the clip has ended, serving as a reminder of the city's rich musical heritage and its connection to local bands like Babes in Toyland.
The footage is also significant because it highlights the importance of preserving local music history. Organizations like Twin Cities PBS play a crucial role in documenting and sharing these stories with a wider audience. By watching this clip, viewers are not only learning about Minneapolis' music scene but also contributing to its preservation for future generations.
Curated from public records and music databases.
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