The Library of Independent Exchange is one of the South West’s most interesting and likeable purveyors of artist books. We’ve been big fans of Mark James and Chris Green since they set up shop as a temporary reference library in an empty retail unit in Millbay, Plymouth for the British Art Show Fringe last year. Mark and Chris have since established a permanent collection of books at L.I.E and are keen to find a permanent home for the library. Help them do this by filling out this super short survey here.
In exchange for your time and thoughts, the guys are offering a limited edition L.I.E tote bag by Swedish designer Andreas Samuelsson to 5 lucky survey filler-outers. Names will be picked at random from a hat, and the winners will be announced at the end of August.
Sun Ra – Planet Earth
There’s nothing about Sun Ra’s output that could be called normal: he recorded around 200 albums, although no one knows for sure; he played a gig at the pyramids in Egypt with a hundred piece orchestra; he pioneered the use of electronic keyboards like the Moog synthesizers; created his own independent record label and influenced countless jazz and rock musicians. His pronouncements were drenched in his unique cosmic mysticism, and his band members claimed he had telepathic powers. Most importantly, he made music, as he wrote, “rushing forth like a fiery law.” Play it Mr. Ra….
Lower Dens – Brains and Stem
We can’t say enough good things about this album, featuring the wonderful Jana Hunter on vocals you just have to get amongst it. Technically it’s 2 songs but you have to see it all the way through!
ELP – The Barbarian
I often think if I wasn’t doing what I’m doing currently, I would like to play keys in a prog rock band.
Matthew Dear – Little People (Black City)
A Disco House journey that takes in the scenic route.
Matmos – Sun on 5 at 152
*Not in playlist
An amazing album featuring David Pajo (Tortoise, Slint, Papa M) on guitar. Matmos make considered, provoking experimental and powerful music. From using samples taken from medical procedures, including plastic surgeries, liposuctions, hearing tests and bonesaws to the nerve activity of a crayfish, Matmos are nothing if not adventurous!
David Bowie – A New Career in a New Town
A fine song for a funeral, or any other change of scenery.
The Chills – Pink Frost
One of many great bands to come out of New Zealand during the 1980′s.
Talking Heads – This Must Be The Place
Yes, this is the place.
Television – Venus
Conjures memories of the time I was asked to ‘learn the drums’ in an afternoon for a ratty band – I had to then (attempt to) play this song live later that evening.
John Maus – My Whole World’s Coming Apart
We’re both big admirers of John Maus, never really sure if he was serious or not, but when you read his back story you realise he’s actually a super interesting guy. Great art school disco dancing music, which is one of L.I.E’s specialties.
