Arthur Russell :: Roulette, Brooklyn, New York, March 2, 1985

As last year’s astonishing Iowa Dream showed, the posthumous Arthur Russell well is far from dry. The man lived and breathed music for his short time on the planet, and we’re extremely fortunate to be able to explore his beautiful/beguiling imagination. Compared to his studio work, there are relatively few documents of Russell as a live performer — which is why this 35-year-old tape is so precious. Recently unearthed from the archives of one of NYC’s greatest new music venues Roulette, it features Arthur and a handful of other players trying out new material, led by Russell’s signature amplified cello and gentle vocals. It’s a little bit hard to tell, but I’d guess there were under 10 people in attendance for this sublime performance. But we’re all there now. words / t wilcox

Arthur Russell :: Roulette, Brooklyn, New York, March 2, 1985

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