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Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Rock out with these great biographies!!

Pearl Jam Twenty by Pearl Jam

Publishers Weekly -

Produced in conjunction with Cameron Crowe's documentary about the Seattle rockers' first 20 years, this photo-packed autobiography is a fitting souvenir for fans. Employing narrative as well as quotes and asides from band members, fellow musicians, and those who've worked with the band, the book offers a detailed take on the events that have shaped their lives and songs. Though their story has been told many times before, the band's personal recollections (particularly of their early days) offer new insight into Pearl Jam's dynamics as well as the Seattle scene's supportive and collaborative environment. Defining moments, such as the death of nine fans at the Roskilde festival and their battles with Ticketmaster, are tactfully addressed, as is the delicate issue of firing drummer Dave Abbruzzese, who was with the band during their meteoric success in the early and mid-90s. This is a remarkable account of a career, and the band's efforts to remain grounded while creating meaningful music is no small achievement. That they're able to do just that, as well as honestly assess their work, warts and all, speaks to their integrity and commitment. This book will satisfy casual listeners as well as obsessives.



No Regrets by Ace Frehley

From the Publisher-

THE MUSIC, THE MAKEUP, THE MADNESS, AND MORE. . . . In December of 1972, a pair of musicians placed an advertisement in the Village Voice: “GUITARIST WANTED WITH FLASH AND ABILITY.” Ace Frehley figured he had both, so he answered the ad. The rest is rock ’n’ roll history.He was just a boy from the Bronx with stars in his eyes. But when he picked up his guitar and painted stars on his face, Ace Frehley transformed into “The Spaceman”—and helped turn KISS into one of the top-selling bands in the world. Now, for the first time, the beloved rock icon reveals his side of the story with no-holds-barred honesty . . . and no regrets.For KISS fans, Ace offers a rare behind-the-makeup look at the band’s legendary origins, including the lightning-bolt logo he designed and the outfits his mother sewed. He talks about the unspoken division within the band—he and Peter Criss versus Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons—because the other two didn’t “party every day.” Ace also reveals the inside story behind his turbulent breakup with KISS, their triumphant reunion a decade later, and his smash solo career. Along the way, he shares wild stories about dancing at Studio 54 with “The Bionic Woman,” working as a roadie for Jimi Hendrix, and bar-flying all night with John Belushi. In the end, he comes to terms with his highly publicized descent into alcohol, drugs, and self-destruction—ultimately managing to conquer his demons and come out on top. This is Ace Frehley. No makeup. No apologies. No regrets.






George Harrison: Living in the Material World by Olivia Harrison

From Barnes & Noble –

This tribute to "the quiet Beatle" is overseen by his wife and longtime partner. The photographs, letters, diaries, and other memorabilia from the family's archives and reminiscences are supplemented by reminiscences by the two surviving Beatles and other close friends.
— David Garber








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