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Camden is synonymous for many things. It was once a mecca for new radicals who extended their middle finger to those who settled for ignominy over free expression. Countless generations made a pilgrimage to this microcosm of creatively, famed for championing those with musical aspirations. Artists and individuals spanning every genre who would end up influencing future generations. However, this documentary is about more than simply singling out musical legends or their contemporary counterparts, if such a thing can be said to exist today but looks to celebrate the importance of creativity full stop.
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Purists might run a mile when they spot Dua Lipa as an executive producer on this documentary, but the important thing to remember is the intention behind it. Whether those talking heads feature Questlove, Chuck D, Chris Martin or Noel Gallagher is irrelevant. Fans of music will either regard their involvement as a promotional opportunity or put their cynicism aside and learn something new. Others may use Camden as another chance to bemoan the state of music and the arts in general, berating those in power for perpetually underfunding working-class areas. However, that is a debate which is destined to rage on regardless.
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The point of Camden is not to insight another round of sabre rattling about the current music scene but enlighten those who want a little back history. Putting aside the inevitable Dua Lipa centric first episode, that honestly adds substance and has something to say, Camden soon turns into a travelog of sorts around the district. Infamous music venues, soundbites from famous faces, and a look back through their memories in connection to this place. Camden never tries to do anything groundbreaking visually aside from attempting to re-create those moments in time where bands and artists came together and did something special.
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In that, at least, this Disney+ documentary succeeds as it remains engaging throughout. It is best enjoyed going in without an agenda since there is a certain degree of rose-tinted idealism from those involved, that some audiences might construe as ego stroking if they wanted to be cynical. However, over 4 hours and just as many episodes, people who are interested in knowing more can dive in and enjoy rare concert footage, vivid recollections, and get a sense of why Camden used to be infamous.
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Camden is available to stream on Disney+ now.