Everybody Loves Our Town: An Oral History Of Grunge (2011) - Plot & Excerpts
This is one of those books that you won't pick up unless you're interested in the topic and if you're interested in the topic, you probably know at least roughly what's happened in Seattle in the late 80s and early 90s. There were, however, some events and bands I wasn't very familiar with and I liked it that it was more than just guys from the big and best known bands talking. It feels a bit disjointed because it's a bunch of people telling their story, many of which happen at the same time and at times it's difficult to keep up with. What year it is, which band was this again, which album are they talking about. For an insider look into grunge and the people it's a fascinating but sad read. The amount of drug and alcohol abuse is incredible and not in a good way, and in a way it's a miracle most of the artists made it through everything alive. Of course that makes the stories of those who didn't make it even more sad, especially that of Layne Staley, when it's obvious from the beginning (and someone actually says it in the book too) that he's never going to kick the habit. And it has to be said that this book has one of the most miserable endings I've ever seen in a book. Most like to end on a high note, this one ends with death. That being said, it's a wonderful reminder of all the good music, all the great personalities, of a few whirlwind years that changed the world. Thoroughly enjoyed this. I was a little worried at the idea of an oral history and that it would devolve into a mess of magazine clippings and interviews. Luckily, this was not the case. Instead what a found was a portrait of a scene that managed to be even handed, informative, warm and funny all at the same time. The main victory of this novel, for me, is the way that it managed to capture the humour and charm of so many icons from the scene (especially Mark Arm). It manages to humanize it's subject but at the same time, explore the magic of the scene and what actually made it worthy of worldwide notice.
What do You think about Everybody Loves Our Town: An Oral History Of Grunge (2011)?
The best book I've read on the Pacific Northwest movement. Right from the mouths of those involved.
—iloveyoumark
I love this book. Staggeringly comprehensive and well written. Support this man in his endeavors.
—aJ71
nostalgic, informative, and interesting. Loved it!
—ana
