Jon Langford and his amazingly talented band performed "The Executioner's Last Songs" before a capacity house at the Triple Door on March 5.
Best known as the front man for the Mekons, Jon Langford created and performed a mordantly beautiful performance work--a compelling collection of tales and songs on the themes of murder, mob law, and cruel, cruel punishment. Langford took us on a twisting and witty autobiographical ride that looked unflinchingly at the promises of life and the penalty of death. The performance combined live music, spoken word, his own visual art, and recordings of American roots music.
Prior to his appearance in Seattle, Langford and his mates produced an series of two CD's raising money for the Illinois Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty, while simultaneously raising awareness around the globe. Within a year, Gov. Ryan cleared death row in Illinois.
Just before arriving in Seattle, Langford performed the show and spoke to Montana law-makers. While he was there, the Montana senate voted to abolish the death penalty.
A Welsh-born, country music playing punk rocker convincing the Montana senate to abolish the death penalty after rubbing the nose of the Lt. Gov's stuffed buffalo head? I honestly never thought I'd write those words, but maybe it is high time for a change to come.
