The film, perhaps consciously, mimics Dowd's "under-produced" style. Moormann doesn't resort to title cards for the interviewees, instead allowing them to introduce themselves and speak, largely without direction, about their work and music. The only narration comes from Dowd himself as he recounts the story of his life and career. The integration of photo montages, interview sessions, and archival footage is virtually seamless. Even the few scenes recreated specifically for the film blend in effortlessly.
Tom Dowd & The Language Of Music is a superb documentary and should be required viewing for anyone with even the slightest interest in sound recording and music. The film's insight into the life of one of the music industry's great unsung heroes is enough to send any fan back to the linear notes of their favorite records to search for the name Tom Dowd.
Tom Dowd & The Language Of Music is scheduled for U.S. theatrical release on August 13, 2004.
Official Site: Tom Dowd & The Language Of Music
Article comments
1 - Mel
As an old Allman Brothers fan who always thought of Dowd as the "other brother", thanks for the heads up on this.
2 - ZMethos
This really was a great documentary, and I'm excited to see the DVD release on August 24th because it's supposed to have a lot of additional footage besides.
3 - Scott Pepper
Press materials promise at least 80 additional minutes of footage as well as a Dolby 5.1 mix. Should be a great disc.