Today, the music world mourns the loss of Steve Albini, a multifaceted artist known for his contributions as a musician, recording engineer, writer, designer, and professional poker player. Albini passed away from a heart attack in Chicago at the age of 61.
While my interactions with Albini were not extensive, we shared some meaningful exchanges over the years. He was a keen supporter of my 1990s zine, Beer Frame: The Journal of Inconspicuous Consumption, and graciously penned the foreword for the compilation book, Inconspicuous Consumption: An Obsessive Look at the Stuff We Take for Granted.
About a year ago, I had the pleasure of conducting a vibrant interview with Albini, where we delved into various topics ranging from the visual aesthetics of bands and records to the merits of DIY design. Albini's intellect and wit shone through as we explored uni-adjacent subjects. His endorsement of the Uni Watch seam ripper as "an incredible merchandise option" remains a cherished memory.
As a fan of Albini's work with Big Black and his insightful writing in publications like Forced Exposure and Matter, I always admired his intellect and willingness to challenge conventional thinking. Despite his confrontational demeanor and past controversial stances, Albini evolved over time, demonstrating a commitment to advocacy for a better world.
With plans to transition back to Inconspicuous Consumption, I had hoped to reconnect with Albini for another interview. Our shared interest in inconspicuous architectural details and design flourishes in Chicago fueled my anticipation for what would have been an enlightening experience. His absence leaves a void in the music and creative communities. Rest in peace, Steve — you'll be dearly missed.
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