Steve Albini dead at 61

Steve Albini was an influential figure in the alternative punk rock music scene since the 1980s. He was best known as a purist recording engineer (not producer), uncompromising musician, fierce band advocate, unwavering voice of independent music, champion poker player and withering critic.

On May 7th, 2024 he suffered a fatal heart attack doing what I presumed he loved. Working hard in his studio Electrical Audio to capture the most authentic performance from a band as efficiently as possible. He appeared to be a generous, ethical, and uncompromising practitioner who willingly shared knowledge from hard-won experience.

A lot has been written about him, particularly over past couple of days and he's certainly said a lot himself over the decades. Including what is a manifesto outlining his philosophy for engaging with the wider music ecosystem, titled "The Problem with Music" from 1993.

Here's a selection of other articles, artefacts, and personal perspectives:

• Jon Robb shares an interview with Albini from 2019.
• The Guardian reviews Albini's legacy.
• A 1994 article from The Wire where Albini had to guess random tunes.
• Steve Albini on his justifiable hatred of Steely Dan for NME.
• His letter to Nirvana detailing working arrangements for In Utero.
• Thurston Moore articulates his feelings on Albini.
• Various musicians discuss their experiences.

Finally, here he is in his final band Shellac practicing in 2010. His intensity is evident and it's clear this trio have played together a long time.

RIP Steve Albini.