Stephen Malkmus
Back in the day, Pavement was the subject of a documentary called Slow Century. It wasn't amazing, but it was about Pavement, so it was worthwhile. I mean, they are the greatest band of all-time, and the guys in the band are kind of weird and interesting, so who wouldn't want to spend some time with the band behind the scenes, and the fact some performances were included certainly helps.
Stephen Malkmus
However, Pavement stopped being a going concern about 20 years ago, aside from a somewhat divisive reunion tour. For years now, Stephen Malkmus, frontman of Pavement, has been fronting a new band called The Jicks (or Stephen Malkmus and The Jicks, depending on how you want to bill them). Malkmus is once again in front of the camera for a new documentary.
Admittedly, this one isn't quite on the scope of Slow Century. The new doc, called Sparkle Hard: The Movie, is only 10 minutes long. The name Sparkle Hard comes from the title of their upcoming album, which is out May 18.
The name Sparkle Hard comes from the title of their upcoming album, which is out May 18.
The movie is a look into the life of Malkmus in Portland, Oregon, where he has made his home for years now. Yes, the quintessential Northern California boy has put down roots in the Pacific Northwest. He still loves basketball, though, and he's still a talented musician. The Jicks will never be able to live up to the glory days of Pavement, but what could?
Anyway, the movie is short, so your time investment is minimal. If you've wondered what Malkmus has been up to, this is your chance to find out. You can watch Malkmus ride a horse, if nothing else.
