In the ever-evolving landscape of music documentaries, a new film has emerged to captivate audiences with its intimate portrayal of one of Scotland’s most beloved postrock bands. “Mogwai: If the Stars Had a Sound” takes viewers on a mesmerizing journey through the band’s nearly three-decade career, showcasing their majestic melodies and the unwavering dedication that has made them a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
A Sonic Odyssey
Directed by former photographer Antony Crook, “If the Stars Had a Sound” adopts a purist approach, allowing Mogwai’s music to take center stage. The documentary offers a loose biography of the band, focusing more on their sonic evolution than on extensive commentary. This choice proves to be a masterstroke, as it allows the band’s widescreen guitarscapes to fill the space, unencumbered by excessive narration.
The film opens with Mogwai on the cusp of an unlikely UK No. 1 for their album “As the Love Continues,” before diving back to the late 90s to explore their early commitment to crafting expansive, emotional soundscapes. Alex Kapranos, who first put them on stage at the 13th Note Café, speculates that these sonic workouts are a means for taciturn Glaswegian men to express what they usually don’t.
“Scottish antisyzygy” is how writer Ian Rankin identifies Mogwai’s distinctive loud/soft dynamics, highlighting the band’s ability to seamlessly navigate between delicate melodies and explosive crescendos.
The Power of Live Performance
One of the documentary’s greatest strengths lies in its capture of Mogwai’s live performances. Crook splices together different performances of the same song, creating the illusion of gigantic, evolving, saurian entities that showcase the band’s prowess on stage. These segments serve as a testament to the raw power and emotion that Mogwai infuses into their music, leaving audiences in awe of their sonic capabilities.
Producer Arthur Baker, who worked with the band on their 2001 single “My Father My King,” inadvertently highlights the religious-ecstatic nature of Mogwai’s live shows. The band’s ability to transport listeners to another realm through their music is a recurring theme throughout the documentary, emphasizing the profound impact their performances have on their devoted fanbase.
Independence and Integrity
“If the Stars Had a Sound” also delves into Mogwai’s unwavering commitment to independence. Mary Anne Hobbs lauds the band for remaining staunchly independent throughout their career, a testament to their integrity and dedication to their craft. While the documentary may not provide extensive details on how this approach has worked for them economically and personally, it serves as an inspiring example for aspiring musicians seeking to forge their own path in the industry.
A Celebration of Sonic Brilliance
At its core, “Mogwai: If the Stars Had a Sound” is a celebration of the band’s enduring legacy and the transformative power of their music. Through stunning live performances, insightful commentary from industry figures, and a minimalist approach that allows the music to speak for itself, the documentary offers a captivating glimpse into the world of one of Scotland’s most iconic postrock bands.
As Mogwai continues to push the boundaries of instrumental music, “If the Stars Had a Sound” serves as a reminder of their unwavering dedication, sonic brilliance, and the indelible mark they have left on the music landscape. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their mesmerizing soundscapes, this documentary is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the artistry and passion that defines Mogwai’s extraordinary journey.
