Instrument
directed by Jem Cohen
featuring Fugazi
As with anything Fugazi creates, Instrument breaks the mold of what is standard and expected by the majority, be it video or album. Shot since the band’s inception in 1987, Instrument follows Fugazi through its first ten years as a band. Instead of being allowed to film the typical choreographed concert footage, Jem Cohen was basically allowed to film anything at any time over the last ten years. Everything from the band’s first show to Ian and Guy being interviewed for a public access television show is seen here. Instrument is an amalgamation of various types of filming, mixing, and editing. Though the band is thought of as militant, ultra-political, and sternly serious, this film shows how misconceived these ideas are, through their humorous and laid-back attitude. After watching the film you can clearly see how much time and effort was spent by Jem Cohen and the band members (who even helped cut the film with Jem). A must for any fan of Fugazi and/or independent documentary filmmaking.
Dischord Records, 3819 Beecher St. NW, Washington, DC 20007
