Description
John Lurie's "Down By Law" is an album originally released as the soundtrack for Jim Jarmusch's film of the same name. This album, released in the late 1980s, was released in various formats, including a limited edition colored vinyl LP. Lurie, known as the saxophonist for The Lounge Lizards, composed and performed the music himself and also plays Jack in the film.
Musically, the album falls within the genre of avant-jazz and jazz-related soundtracks. The atmosphere of the music seamlessly complements Jarmusch's bohemian and slightly absurdist style: the sound is raw, noir, and at times a bit melancholic. Lurie's signature saxophone playing, interspersed with unpredictable ethnic rhythms, contributes to a unique, otherworldly feel that perfectly complements the film's atmosphere.
A few tracks that perfectly illustrate the album's character are "What Do You Know About Music, You're Not A Lawyer," where the playful tone and jazzy undertone are immediately apparent. A second standout track is "Strangers in the Day," which, with a short, cinematic theme, captures the film's atmosphere of desolation and connection. "Swamp" also continues this approach and showcases Lurie's ability to create tension and atmosphere with minimal means.
Down By Law is more than a traditional soundtrack; the album is an independent work within jazz and the avant-garde, with a distinctive character that reflects Lurie's style and vision. The LP edition on colored vinyl makes it a popular collector's item among film buffs and music connoisseurs who appreciate the blurring of the lines between jazz, film, and experimentation.
