He's Back, Haven't You Heard?
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"The Unexpected Return of Mr. Meek" (TUROMM) is a music documentary that delves into the extraordinary life and musical legacy of 1960s producer Joe Meek.
Renowned as a legendary music producer, Joe Meek also holds a deserved place in history as the original circuit-bender. His fascination with electronics began in the 1950s when he filled his parents' shed with second-hand or discarded radio and TV sets. Spending countless hours with a soldering iron, he experimented with these devices to create new sounds and visuals. Remarkably, he was the first person to build a TV set in Gloucestershire, even before a signal was available!
This early tinkering gave him a unique edge, propelling him to become Britain's most infamous music producer. His habit of constantly modifying his equipment to achieve innovative sounds became a hallmark of his career. So revered was his work that other labels often attempted to steal his equipment or at least catch a glimpse inside. To counter this, Meek would 'black box' his kit, wrapping it in reels of duct tape to make it impenetrable.
As a producer, Joe Meek was a flamboyant and mercurial character who shaped the sound of modern music. He worked with iconic artists such as David Bowie, Jimmy Page, Richie Blackmore, Tom Jones, Rod Stewart, Marc Bolan, and many more.
Throughout the film, these legendary artists will share how Joe Meek helped shape and launch their stellar careers. Additionally, insights from renowned producers and industry figures such as Trevor Horn CBE (Buggles, Ivor Novello Award winner) and Sylvia Massey (Prince, Red Hot Chilli Peppers) will be featured.
In a unique past-meets-present creative experience, the project will bring contemporary music stars into the studio to create brand-new songs using never-released Joe Meek instrumentals.
The film will also explore the dark underbelly of London during the swinging 60s, revealing why Joe Meek has remained an enduring cult figure within the music industry. It will examine what it was like to be a criminalized homosexual at that time and the continued influence Joe Meek has on the world he left behind.
The Unexpected Return of Mr. Meek promises to be an exhilarating, moving, and inspiring experience for electronic and expreimental music fans everywhere.