So Long Silver Jews...

In 1984 I was hospitalized for approaching perfection...

With those words, David Berman opened one of my all-time favorite albums: American Water by the Silver Jews. Sadly, Berman announced on his website earlier this week that the band's upcoming Tennessee show will be their last. Next up for him: screenwriting or muckraking, he says.

Speaking of muckraking, Berman did choose to go out on a bit of a shocking note. In a harshly worded diatribe, Berman exposes (and somewhat apologizes for his relation to) his father. Richard Berman is a union-busting, right-wing activist who's apparently very good at his job. Go here for the diatribe and here for details on his dad.

I can see why you'd be embarrassed, David, but we all still love you the same and we certainly know what you do and do not stand for. Thanks for the many years, the too-few shows and the poetry-in-music. You may not make more, but your songs will certainly outlast you.

- BTW- hat tip to Pitchfork for the heads up on the this.