I hadn't heard of the West Memphis 3 until 2011. I hadn't heard in depth of their story until 2012. I have no intention of telling you what their story means to me. That is irrelevant. I simply think it important that people find the time to research it on their own. It is not that the story is particularly unique. People are wrongly convicted all the time. Sadly. What makes this story stand out, though, is the way - in my opinion - Damien Echols has risen from the heart breaking cards he was dealt. This story is devastating and inspiring all wrapped up into one complicated piece.
In 1996 a three part documentary was released; Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills. The documentary was a strong effort to educate America, and portray the ill-conviction of three boys based on questionable evidence. Despite two of the three being sentenced to life imprisonment, and the third sent to death row, they were released in 2011 to serve a ten year suspended sentence.
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Released: January 15, 2013
Usually I don't talk about movie soundtracks too much but if I'm going to make an exception for anything it will be for the 'West of Memphis' documentary movie soundtrack; West of Memphis: Voices for Justice.
I've never been to jail. Listening to this soundtrack, the poignant aspect of ill-conviction is displayed in the most heart breaking way. I chose, foolishly, to listen to this soundtrack while reading Damien Echols book (released in September 2012), 'Life After Death'. As Johnny Depp's band, Tonto's Giant Nuts, played Mumford & Sons 'Little Lion Man' unwillful tears pooled in my eyes. The song, though beautifully played by its originator or by Depps band, never served so much reverence as on the West of Memphis soundtrack. 'Little Lion Man' performed this way, is hauntingly devastating.
The score is put together by an all star cast featuring a fair share of covers. All portraying each song in a new light. Natalie Maines, lead singer of the Dixie Chicks, daringly covers Pink Floyds 'Mother'. An edgy move. She does a perfect job. Playing slightly less country and slightly more grungy, Maines fits in perfectly with the rest of the artists who contribute to the score. It's a humble, beauty of a song.
The entire album is chalk full of beautiful songs that tug on every heart string. The album also includes the reciting of two letters Damien Echols had written while on death row - read by Johnny Depp and Henry Rollins with Nick Cave playing in the background.
I find it difficult to go into depth with this album further because it is so fully based on the West Memphis 3 story. To understand the album would be to understand the story. I strongly encourage you, reader, to make the time to research it, if only to both show support to the men who were unjustly convicted; West Memphis 3 (Damien Echols, Jessie Misskelley, and Jason Baldwin) and also to honor the three eight year old boys who were killed in 1993.
By purchasing this album you are contributing directly to the West Memphis 3.
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