Earl Harvin is a Tinderstick

The local music scene in Dallas, Texas during the '90s was abysmal. Unless, of course, you were a fan of Pantera or Robbie Van Winkle. But for those with a discerning palate, the pickin's were slim. This was especially true if you happened to be in to jazz.

One consistent bright spot was drummer Earl Harvin. His always tasteful playing earned him recording dates with Seal, The The, Richard Thompson, The Psychedelic Furs, Dallas legend MC 900 Ft. Jesus and tour dates with Air. But his passion at the time was jazz.

The now-defunct Leaning House records documented Harvin's various jazz groups on several CDs, but as is true with most jazz, it was best to catch him live. I had the pleasure of seeing him many times, and he killed every time.

So imagine my surprise when I found out he's now in one of my favorite bands. Congratulations, Earl. Better yet, congratulations to Tindersticks.

Falling Down a Mountain is out now on Constellation Records.