Carsick Cars

Universally scorned for their idolatry of indie bands, fangirls and boys get a mean deal. They’re the kids with pin badges and aspirations of licking Kim Gordon. They mill about in crooked streets in industrialised neighbourhoods waiting to meet minds with their heroines and heros. They acknowledge bands as if they were a monogamous partner or football team. On one hand they are completely focussed and on the other they’re drunk and disillusioned. 

In a selection of works by James Mollison looking at this unique breed, there are two conclusions to be made, 1) Oasis fans look like Primal Scream 2) Radiohead have a fanbase primarily consisting of losers – they couldn’t look more pathetic if they tried (and don’t they just). Adorning straps across their chests they are less Rambo or Mercury and more grandad-with-handbag.

Carsick Cars should be viewed as the Beijing branch of the Glen Branca fanclub, their denim jackets, converse and boyish looks make them sweet cliches. Out of all the copyists and communities who base their cultural lives around artists, songs, and that which they reference, it’s the most dedicated who imitate the music that retain any sense of cool. Although they haven’t pooled a Western fanbase as of yet, it’s only a matter of time and touring before we all join the GBBD* with them. 

Carsick Cars are the original superfan and we should acknowledge them for that if not anything else. They’re heading over to Europe in May and we’re expecting a new record this year so keep your eyes peeled pop-pickers. 

*Glen Branca Beijing Division.