Electric Lady Studios: A Vision of Jimi Hendrix

Electric Lady Studios: A Vision of Jimi Hendrix | Film review

There is perhaps no recording studio quite like Electric Lady, conceived, conceived and built by Jimi Hendrix and his eclectic band of dreamers and artists alike. The historic studio in the heart of Manhattan has established itself as an integral part of modern music-making since its inception, nurturing the brightest stars of every generation. Such an iconic institution, the first artist-founded and owned commercial studio, deserves to have its story shouted from the rooftops – Electric Lady Studios: A Vision of Jimi Hendrix aims to do just that, paralleling Hendrix’s journeys as a rocker and the evolution of his cherished creative haven.

Told primarily from the perspective of the visionaries behind Electric Lady, including legendary producer Eddie Kramer and his engineering elves, the documentary details how so many were lured into the studio’s orbit by chance and later contributed to its success. Along the way, a family formed – what shines through above all else is a sense of camaraderie between everyone involved, which is particularly evident in some track breakdown sequences (Freedom And Dolly dagger (including) with Kramer and mentees-to-collaborators Kim King, Dave Palmer and John Jansen.

Hendrix is ​​omnipresent in this documentary, portrayed as the studio’s relentless driving force and a clear object of admiration and devotion from his colleagues. However, anyone looking for a pompous account of his career should look elsewhere. Rather than portraying the glitzy and glamorous rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, the film’s focus throughout is home, filled with tenderness towards those left behind to keep things alive.

This domesticity evokes a feeling of intimacy that ultimately characterizes and distinguishes the documentary. Director John McDermott’s inclusion of a series of poignant Hendrix home videos only reinforces the idea that anyone touched by Electric Lady is “enveloped in warmth,” as Kramer puts it so simply and perfectly.

The film is as carefully crafted as the work produced at Electric Lady Studios. He manages to shine a spotlight on the masterminds behind the operation and avoids a theatrical retelling of Hendrix’s story. It would take an entire series to adequately capture Electric Lady’s legacy and contemporary achievements – including, perhaps, a chosen refuge for the songwriting of Taylor Swift, the pop superstar who has established herself as a regular visitor. Currently, Electric Lady Studios: A Vision of Jimi Hendrix lays the foundation and is a must for anyone who appreciates how connecting music can be.

Tallulah Allen

Electric Lady Studios: A Vision of Jimi Hendrix is published on a 3CD/Blu-Ray box switched on 4^Th October 2024.

Watch the trailer Electric Lady Studios: A Vision of Jimi Hendrix Here: