As films about Ginger Baker and the Stone Roses are released, here’s The Guardian UK’s picks of the movies in which filmmakers focus on the drama behind the songs.

We Jam Econo: The Story of the Minutemen (2005)

“Our band could be your life,” sang the Minutemen in History Lesson Part II – a line that embodied the fierce love the audiences of the US indie underground held for their bands. The Minutemen were pioneers, coming out of the southern California hardcore punk scene, but to be tied to it, and living what they preached – “We jam econo,” was a phrase bassist Mike Watt coined to describe a commitment to doing everything cheaply and independently. More than a history lesson, though, We Jam Econo is a deeply moving love letter from Watt to his friend – and the Minutemen’s leader – D Boon, who died in December 1985.

Metal Evolution (2011)

Metal documentaries usually invite laughter, no matter how much affection they hold for their subjects. It’s as if This Is Spinal Tap has become the only acceptable model. Sam Dunn and Scot McFadyen tried something different with their 2005 film, Metal: A Headbanger’s Journey, exploring the history and appeal of the genre. Metal Evolution went not just the extra mile but the extra marathon in 11 one-hour episodes that travelled the world meeting musicians from the legendary to the obscure. Arguably the most comprehensive rock-doc ever – and it’s currently being repeated on Sky Arts. Don’t miss.

Click on the link below for full videos and 8 more documentary gems for your next rainy day…

Author: Michael Hann, The Guardian (UK)

Read More/Original Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/2013/may/18/ten-best-music-documentaries