David J and Mattress

David J Haskins (AKA David J) of Bauhaus and Love and Rockets renown has just released a new album, The Mother Tree, in tandem with a book of poetry titled Rhapsody, Threnody LP vinyl, digital download, and streaming platforms by Erototox Decodings while Rhapsody, Threnody & Prayer is published by Fonograph Media. The acclaimed musician, poet, and cultural icon, better known as David J, created these two intimate, deeply personal, and evocative works primarily in tribute to his mother. Haskins' decision to release these projects using his surname (which his brother and bandmate in Bauhaus and Love and Rockets has used all along) underscores their deep familial and emotional significance to him. He calls The Mother Tree and Rhapsody, Threnody my most personal work yet.

The Mother Tree Album

The Mother Tree is a poignant five-track album featuring David reciting his poetry to the accompaniment of lush, dramatic, atmospheric music, showcasing his multidimensional musical artistry. The bulk of the title piece was composed over the course of 3 days, in a remote part of Massachusetts where he was living in 1997, this following the passing of his mother, Joan Nancy. Incantation To Herne was written while he was still living in his hometown of Northampton, England back in 1995, a time when he had immersed himself in the study of magick and folklore. Elegy To Beale Street was created during a trip to Memphis, scouting recording studios in 1990. Saviour In The City was penned in New York City around the same time, inspired by a vision of Jesus visiting the city in modern times, contemplating how he'd be received.

Recording Process

The Mother Tree was recorded in early 2020, just before and then half a year after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, with David recruiting members of RAQIA who he had seen perform live in LA the preceding December: Gregory Allison (violin), Tad Piecka (guitar), and Jon Bernstein (piano). The first piece tracked was the title piece, The Mother Tree, with everyone playing together live, which set a precedent for the following session in June when four other cuts were completed. Percussionist Brad Dutz was added for this second round. This creative activity provided a much-needed emotional lift to all involved.

Rhapsody, Threnody & Prayer Book

Rhapsody, Threnody & Prayer is a book of his poetry collected over the course of many years. The poems encompass a large array of experiences, places, relationships, infatuations, and obsessions. Love found and love lost. They include tributes to departed cultural icons like Ian Curtis, Kurt Cobain, Mark Linkous, Jeff Buckley, and Jack Kerouac.

Legacy

Taken together, this album and book illuminate Haskins' enduring legacy as both a musician and a poet possessed of a uniquely sensual, visceral, sometimes surreal, and often nostalgic vision.

Event Information

This event is 21 and over. Any ticket holder unable to present valid identification indicating that they are at least 21 years of age will not be admitted to this event and will not be eligible for a refund.