We Dreamed America

We Dreamed America is a 2008 British documentary that delves into the surprising connection between American country music and a new wave of contemporary British artists. Directed by Alex Walker, the film spotlights Alabama 3, The Barker Band, Paul Barrere, and The Broken Family Band among others, navigating us through a seemingly stark discord between the deeply ingrained American genre and its newfound British area of influence.

Although it is set thousands of miles apart from where the genre originated, We Dreamed America serves as a heartfelt and thought-provoking exploration of the potency of American country music and its relevance and influence on artists in the UK. The story unfolds as we journey into the lives and talents of a diverse group of British musicians who have found a deep affinity towards the American Country, Bluegrass, and Southern Gothic genres.

The film opens up the world of Alabama 3, a band more known for their Exile on Coldharbour Lane album which included the theme song for the popular HBO series "The Sopranos". Their quirky combination of styles comprising country, punk, and acid house, conveys the true diversity of interests found in the UK's music scene.

Following Alabama 3, we're introduced to The Barker Band, a traditional bluegrass outfit hailing from London. Their story is a testament to the preservation of the authentic roots in country-style music, a tribute to the original spirit and artistry buried within the genre, breathing new life into the prototypical American sound.

Paul Barrere’s entry into the film brings in a fascinating look at an esteemed blues and rock musician who was part of the iconic band, Little Feat. We Dreamed America capitalizes on this association to delve into the past, connecting historic roots of American music with its tendrils in the present day British country scene.

The Broken Family Band is another highlight, showcasing their unique fusion of country and indie rock through raw performances and engaging narratives. Their contribution illuminates the possibility of harmonious blend of two different music worlds and the birth of an original sound that captures the essence of both traditions.

Interspersed throughout the documentary are exclusive, sangfroid performances by these musicians, capturing their raw passion for the genre, their torment, and their ecstasy, along with insightful interviews that provide an intimate look into their inspiration and their journey.

The film uses the shared love of this music to expand on cultural exchanges and alliances that exist beyond borders, shining light on the universal power of music. Walker's documentary succeeds in guiding the viewer on a journey of discovery into the heart of the unlikely melding of the American country-blues resurgence with the gritty reality of the British country scene. It pays homage to the American country music tradition while also giving audiences a glimpse into the lives and inspirations of artists they might not ordinarily encounter.

We Dreamed America is as much about the music as it is about exploration and identity. It illuminates the unanticipated ways that music transcends geographic boundaries and how its influence is not confined within the parameters of its country. The film is imbued with an undeniable sense of appreciation for the way musical genres evolve and embrace global influences.

In doing so, the movie respects the complexities and subtleties that come from the intermingling of cultural influences. It’s a tribute to the power of art forms, capturing the magic that happens when traditions collide and shape into something new yet familiar. It brings forward the daring of these British artists who venture into a genre steeped in foreign culture and make it their own, creating a unique blend of music that is both evocative of the roots and indicative of a new direction.

Ultimately, We Dreamed America emerges as a potent exploration of the human bond music creates, of the universality of art, and of the dialogue between diverse cultures. The scope of the film reaches beyond music, it makes you think, it makes you feel, and it makes you grasp the boundless impact of the global conversation on art and culture.