Never mind literary spats, this is what we want. Below is a rare piece of film of the rather lovely Orange Juice, or at least Edwyn Collins, performing Simply Thrilled Honey in a factory which, brilliantly, makes orange juice. That is a literalness which borders on genius:
There are some people whose whole career can be recommended, those who even when they misfire are interesting enough to make them indispensable. Elvis Costello, Tom Waits and KateBush are three who immediately come to mind, and I would add Edwyn Collins to such a list. Orange Juice were a formative band for me, helping to lure a pre-teen away from a possible future which included the far tighter trousers of Heavy Metal. For that alone I am indebted, but he has always reappeared over the years with knowing lyrics, melodies and a rare warmth.
The recently published book by his wife Grace Maxwell, The Restoration of Edwyn Collins, deals with Edwyn’s recovery from a cerebral hemorrhage. This is one book that not only do I want to read, but, perhaps oddly, feel that I should. I know I’ll write more about the importance of Postcard records in the future, but the above clip gives me the excuse to indulge in a little nostalgia, and send my love to Edwyn.
For more info please check http://www.edwyncollins.com/