captain’s log

the legend of Captain Beefheart as the ultimate cult figure has increased immeasurably since he retired from music 25 years ago to concentrate on painting, leaving behind some of the most astonishing records of the 20th century.

Apart from being one of John Peel’s all-time heroes, Beefheart’s influence was feted around 1977 by names like Joe Strummer and John Lydon. Since then it’s shown up in countless artists, including the Birthday Party, Devo, the Pop Group, B-52s, XTC, Pere Ubu and Tom Waits. But beneath the lovably eccentric persona bolstered by myths and amazing records lies one of the strangest stories in music, propelled by a talent so volcanically precocious it often sent those under his control beyond the outer limits of physical and mental endurance.

John French, originally hired as The Magic Band’s drummer but later Beefheart’s on-off musical director for 15 years, and guitarist Gary Lucas, who also managed him for five years, were two of the only men in the world who could work with the notoriously difficult Beefheart for extended periods of time. Both harbour different aftertastes from their experiences but display the same admiration for his wild lyrical flair, multioctaved voice and otherworldly visions.

After being …

by Kris Needs
<< Back to Issue 359

You must be a subscriber to view the full article, subscribe now for full access to all online content.

Already a Magazine Subscriber? Register now for online access.