I recently received Lauren Dukoff's 'Family' from my brother (oh, the irony) and have to say I was very, very happy. Lauren Dukoff is a wonderful photographer, who manages to capture her muses in a serene, gentle light. She has travelled all over the world with her musician friends and this book is a documentation of their time together. Each portrait is different. She can capture the performer, the thinker, the private couple. Her subjects look into her lens like they're in the middle of telling a secret. Sometimes they smile as if they're sharing an in joke. Each photo is endearing and glamourous. But not in a bragging way. Dukoff is no pompous photographer.
Of course, there is another reason I wanted this book and love it so much. His name Devendra Banhart...
What was that Devendra? Marriage? Moi? But, I'm only 21. Are you that desperate to have me? Oh, fine, have it your way...
Dukoff''s family members are so attractive and talented she makes me wish I was adopted. The book features Bat for Lashes, Hecuba, Espers, Cibelle, Vetiver, Little Joy, Megapuss (many bands feature the same members, rienforcing the fact that these people really are like family) and many more. Every single one of these musicians create wonderful music, bursting with originality and yummy creativity. The book's layout matches their mish-mash of musical styles perfectly.
If unfamiliar with the music scene Dukoff is involved with, this book is a good introduction to it. If, like me, you are in love with (nooo, not Devendra) most of the musicians featured, it's a must have. If none of the above, get it anyway. Dukoff is brilliant and I love this book.
I have read a few of their books and the stories were wonderful. It is also a nice to know that it is perfectly OK to judge these books by their covers, as you'll never be disappointed with what's inside.
