Dirty Linen

This is an excerpt from the print edition of Dirty Linen #130 June/July 2007).
The full article is in the magazine, available on newsstands, by subscription, and at the Dirty Linen webstore.

Jay Farrar/Son Volt

Jay Farrar

The Search, Not the Find

by Michael Swanger

It must be frustrating for Jay Farrar to read old press clips. That is, assuming he has the time or interest when he isn't busy playing with his band Son Volt, tackling various side projects, and raising his family. It seems every music journalist who has interviewed Farrar has felt compelled to focus on his past work with Uncle Tupelo and his reticent personality, which does little to tell the reader about the music at hand and does more to help sell magazines.

True, Farrar can be a tough interview, but that depends on the questions you ask him. Open with "What do these songs mean?" or "Why are you so shy?" or "Have you talked to Jeff Tweedy lately?" and you've stalled the interview before it starts, assuring yourself -- deservedly so -- of obligatory answers to your remaining questions.

With so many writers churning out similar stories, no one can blame Farrar if he doesn't read his old press. His new press, well, that's another matter. Though scribes will continue to write about the inner workings of this quiet, contemplative mastermind and articulate chronicler of contemporary issues, there are some new stories to tell as Farrar slowly climbs out of his shell to set the record straight on a few things, like the demise of Uncle Tupelo. And with the March release of Son Volt's most daring and diverse album, The Search, Farrar's increasing openness is a telltale sign the 39-year-old singer/songwriter/guitarist is going through an unprecedented period of professional and personal growth.

"Being labeled as an introvert by the media is something I dealt with early on in my career," Farrar said. "I don't know if I would fall into that category anymore. With my role I've had to change, but I see that as a good thing. It's no fun being an introvert. The process of becoming more outward is a good thing."

[cover #130]