LUKE HAINES was briefly a member of the Servants, who were a damn fine band yet commercially unsuccessful.  It wasn't until he stepped up to the plate and formed his own band with his girlfriend that he began to get noticed.  The Auteurs released an album called New Wave that some say was the blueprint for the "Brit-Pop" movement that became the calling card of indie in the mid 90's.  On one hand, the Auteurs had a devoted following right from the start, mainly due to the reputation of their startling live shows.  On the other hand, much like the Go-Betweens, The Auteurs were fast approaching the peculiar limbo status of "critics' favorites" who were nevertheless unable to shift those all-important units.  Steve Albini was drafted in to produce their 3rd album, After Murder Park, which showed the much more bleak side of his songwriting.  It's a great record, and sounds even more spectacular 11 years later. 

Two additional solo projects – Baader Meinhof and the electronic based Black Box Recorder – revealed Luke's depth and diversity as a songwriter.  His most recent album is called Off My Rocker at the Art School Bop.  It's clear, here, that Haines has not lost his ear for a hook, and even has a pretty sharp sense of humor:  "Gary Glitter is a bad man/Ruining the reputation/of the Glitter Band"   

Luke chose to cover one of Grant's more obscure yet heartfelt songs.  "You Won't Find It Again" was one of the few songs where Grant could be heard spewing a bit of bile, albeit in his customarily bemused way.  It's emotional, but within bounds – and we're still not sure if he's singing about an ex-lover or the breakup of his old band, the life-altering Go-Betweens.  At any rate, Luke renders it beautifully and we're extremely proud to have him among the contributors to Love Goes On.  

Please come by and to hear Luke's contribution to our joint tribute to Grant; we'd love to hear your comments/thoughts!

Cheers,

Rare Victory