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Punk Rocker: Punk tales of Billy Idol, Sid Vicious and Iggy Pop from New York City, Los Angeles, Minnesota and Austria.
#1 BEST SELLER - PUNK #1 BEST SELLER - PHOTOJOURNALISM
Punk Rocker is the much anticipated sequel to “L.A. Punk Rocker”: top author Brenda Perlin’s best-selling punk anthology.
Here you will find a collection of short stories from those who were there in the early days. Hard core musical anarchists who saw it all, heard it all, did it all - and survived to tell their stories.
Along with Brenda and the West Coast punks, Punk Rocker features rebels, writers, commentators and street kids from all over America – talking about the music, the fashion, the attitude, the passion, the lifestyle and, of course, the bands who made it all happen.
Meet people who discovered punk’s new dawn – and those who were there for its sunset, in the ramshackle mausoleum of the Chelsea Hotel.
Backstage, in the clubs, in the gigs, in hotel rooms with the band, on the streets –Brenda was there. She saw it all. And so did her friends.
Punk Rocker. If you missed it…what are you waiting for?
Punk Rocker is the much anticipated sequel to “L.A. Punk Rocker”: top author Brenda Perlin’s best-selling punk anthology.
Here you will find a collection of short stories from those who were there in the early days. Hard core musical anarchists who saw it all, heard it all, did it all - and survived to tell their stories.
Along with Brenda and the West Coast punks, Punk Rocker features rebels, writers, commentators and street kids from all over America – talking about the music, the fashion, the attitude, the passion, the lifestyle and, of course, the bands who made it all happen.
Meet people who discovered punk’s new dawn – and those who were there for its sunset, in the ramshackle mausoleum of the Chelsea Hotel.
Backstage, in the clubs, in the gigs, in hotel rooms with the band, on the streets –Brenda was there. She saw it all. And so did her friends.
Punk Rocker. If you missed it…what are you waiting for?
- GenresNonfictionDivision
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2016
9 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 2, 2016
This is an anthology of stories, some true and others fiction, which delves into the punk scene that occurred in the seventies and early eighties. I enjoyed it.
This is not my usual reading genre. I don't often read memoirs as such, but a friend recommended it so I decided to give it a try.
It was interesting to see how the authors were affected by the punk era and how the music shaped their lives. I must admit that I have listened to artists like The Who, Billy Idol, The Clash, David Bowie and others over the years, but was too young in the early eighties to understand why these artists inspired young teenagers to express themselves by dressing in leather, chains and weird hairdo's. I remember visiting family in the UK in 1984 (I was 11 at the time) and looking at a beautiful young girl on the bus. She had her nose pierced (a chain linking her nose and ear) and had a bright blue mohawk which stood up a good six inches. She wore a leather jacket over a t-shirt and torn jeans and big boots (Doc Martens, I think). Her father was scolding her and telling her that he didn't know her and not to sit with him. This made me sad. However, what struck me is that she sat there proudly. She probably was extremely upset, but she didn't let it show. I guess, just like these authors, she wanted to express herself.
I really enjoyed reading some of the authors' reminiscences, as well as the fictional stories. There are some truly hilarious events, as well as some that made me cringe in sympathy. It also gave me a better understanding of the political and social scene of the time. There is also a touching tribute to David Bowie by Brenda Perlin when he passed away earlier this year. His music, and that of the other punk rock bands has shaped a lot of today's music and inspired people of all ages. I feel it is their rebellion against being "normal" that allows today's young to express their individuality.
This is a fantastic collection of stories that will appeal to those who lived through the punk era, or those interested in the music and social aspect of the time. - Lynn Worton
This is not my usual reading genre. I don't often read memoirs as such, but a friend recommended it so I decided to give it a try.
It was interesting to see how the authors were affected by the punk era and how the music shaped their lives. I must admit that I have listened to artists like The Who, Billy Idol, The Clash, David Bowie and others over the years, but was too young in the early eighties to understand why these artists inspired young teenagers to express themselves by dressing in leather, chains and weird hairdo's. I remember visiting family in the UK in 1984 (I was 11 at the time) and looking at a beautiful young girl on the bus. She had her nose pierced (a chain linking her nose and ear) and had a bright blue mohawk which stood up a good six inches. She wore a leather jacket over a t-shirt and torn jeans and big boots (Doc Martens, I think). Her father was scolding her and telling her that he didn't know her and not to sit with him. This made me sad. However, what struck me is that she sat there proudly. She probably was extremely upset, but she didn't let it show. I guess, just like these authors, she wanted to express herself.
I really enjoyed reading some of the authors' reminiscences, as well as the fictional stories. There are some truly hilarious events, as well as some that made me cringe in sympathy. It also gave me a better understanding of the political and social scene of the time. There is also a touching tribute to David Bowie by Brenda Perlin when he passed away earlier this year. His music, and that of the other punk rock bands has shaped a lot of today's music and inspired people of all ages. I feel it is their rebellion against being "normal" that allows today's young to express their individuality.
This is a fantastic collection of stories that will appeal to those who lived through the punk era, or those interested in the music and social aspect of the time. - Lynn Worton
May 31, 2016
*** Much More than Punk - A Beautiful Collection for Music Lovers ***
Punk Rocker as presented by Brenda Perlin is her second collection of short stories and photographs. It’s part fiction, part memoir, all written with one thing in common—as an homage to the punk era. The stories are a natural progression from LA Punk Rocker, the first book, which talked about the rise of something new and exciting, a time of rebellion and discovery.
Punk Rocker has matured in the quality of the stories and its focus. Much of this may be due to a couple of recent devastating losses in the music industry, notably David Bowie and Scott Weiland. Dedications to them open the book and set the tone for stories that remind us of how music not only touches our lives, but how it continues to shape it as the years go by.
I especially enjoyed “Rebel Yell” by Christoph Fischer. Known mainly for his historical novels, the influence of the punk era on his youth is something we can all relate to, regardless of the type of music we grew up with.
“December 1980” by Jim Kavanagh recounted what it was like for him after the murder of John Lennon, how his death connected strangers in a city of millions, not commonly known for its compassion. As he wrote: “Our innocence was officially gone.” His story moved me to tears as I remember that time well.
Mark Barry’s “The Jacket” is another example of wonderful storytelling. An inanimate object weaves itself through history and time—all the while, music is the common thread.
I would be remiss if I didn’t comment on one more entry, and that is Brenda Perlin’s “The Mirror,” which finishes the book. Her story captures the reasons why David Bowie and his music were so important to her, and for me, it confirms that artists may die, but good music never will. There is something very comforting about that.
There are many great stories in Punk Rocker, each providing different coloured lens to view the punk era. It’s worth the read to see the rainbow of colours.
Punk Rocker as presented by Brenda Perlin is her second collection of short stories and photographs. It’s part fiction, part memoir, all written with one thing in common—as an homage to the punk era. The stories are a natural progression from LA Punk Rocker, the first book, which talked about the rise of something new and exciting, a time of rebellion and discovery.
Punk Rocker has matured in the quality of the stories and its focus. Much of this may be due to a couple of recent devastating losses in the music industry, notably David Bowie and Scott Weiland. Dedications to them open the book and set the tone for stories that remind us of how music not only touches our lives, but how it continues to shape it as the years go by.
I especially enjoyed “Rebel Yell” by Christoph Fischer. Known mainly for his historical novels, the influence of the punk era on his youth is something we can all relate to, regardless of the type of music we grew up with.
“December 1980” by Jim Kavanagh recounted what it was like for him after the murder of John Lennon, how his death connected strangers in a city of millions, not commonly known for its compassion. As he wrote: “Our innocence was officially gone.” His story moved me to tears as I remember that time well.
Mark Barry’s “The Jacket” is another example of wonderful storytelling. An inanimate object weaves itself through history and time—all the while, music is the common thread.
I would be remiss if I didn’t comment on one more entry, and that is Brenda Perlin’s “The Mirror,” which finishes the book. Her story captures the reasons why David Bowie and his music were so important to her, and for me, it confirms that artists may die, but good music never will. There is something very comforting about that.
There are many great stories in Punk Rocker, each providing different coloured lens to view the punk era. It’s worth the read to see the rainbow of colours.
June 6, 2016
There is something timeless when it comes to books that capture a time that has now passed. Punk Rocker is one of those books, a time capsule aimed at capturing all to do with Punk. It wasn't just the music. It wasn't just the fashion. It was about a state of mind, something that no one writer has managed to accurately capture.
There's two things in this world that I love with a passion; writing and music (not always in that order). I love books that are about music. They make my heart sing and find me dredging through my own record collection for that one song that encapsulated a moment of my life.
Punk Rocker is a collection of stories when people who were involved in the Punk movement of the '70's and '80's. This book is their love song to a time that will never be forgotten, a time that is often brought back in to the mainstream by fashion, film, and, yes, the music. The musicians of that time – Billy Idol, Sid Vicious, David Bowie et al - are caught in this pages, inked for eternity by the memories of those who lived and breathed a scene.
Each story is different, each memory as beautiful as the last. Every writer has poured their heart and soul into their stories, drawing you in and taking you back to a time when the music was a scream of defiance to a world that didn't understand it. This book is as raw and as real as the music its about.
If you love music, you will love this book. Even if you aren't into Punk, this is a beautiful dedication to a movement that still lives on. Read it and remember exactly why you fell in love with your favourite band.
There's two things in this world that I love with a passion; writing and music (not always in that order). I love books that are about music. They make my heart sing and find me dredging through my own record collection for that one song that encapsulated a moment of my life.
Punk Rocker is a collection of stories when people who were involved in the Punk movement of the '70's and '80's. This book is their love song to a time that will never be forgotten, a time that is often brought back in to the mainstream by fashion, film, and, yes, the music. The musicians of that time – Billy Idol, Sid Vicious, David Bowie et al - are caught in this pages, inked for eternity by the memories of those who lived and breathed a scene.
Each story is different, each memory as beautiful as the last. Every writer has poured their heart and soul into their stories, drawing you in and taking you back to a time when the music was a scream of defiance to a world that didn't understand it. This book is as raw and as real as the music its about.
If you love music, you will love this book. Even if you aren't into Punk, this is a beautiful dedication to a movement that still lives on. Read it and remember exactly why you fell in love with your favourite band.
June 27, 2016
I love music. I always have but Punk Rock was for me, not a lifestyle or a phase I simply assumed it was a term the ole' folk used to refer to all young hip teenagers. Boy was I wrong. I ended up not only being entertained by this book but also found it educational. Now that I have some background a lot of little bits of stuff I knew and know came back to me and fell into place to make sure I have a better understanding of the true scope of this era.
I also appreciate the fact that although the authors never actually dwelt on the death and destruction of narcotics and unprotected s\&x it was never glorified, it was mentioned as a fact of life and then the true import of this era, the inspiration to be something other than simply another man on the street, walking to his 9-5 job is. I loved the passion. The love, the tolerance.
Yeah, I enjoyed this book, all fictional or memories called up from the authors life in this age but all of it served to entertain and does not impose another pov or act as if it is more or less than that.
Even an ignoramus like myself got caught up in the energy.
I also appreciate the fact that although the authors never actually dwelt on the death and destruction of narcotics and unprotected s\&x it was never glorified, it was mentioned as a fact of life and then the true import of this era, the inspiration to be something other than simply another man on the street, walking to his 9-5 job is. I loved the passion. The love, the tolerance.
Yeah, I enjoyed this book, all fictional or memories called up from the authors life in this age but all of it served to entertain and does not impose another pov or act as if it is more or less than that.
Even an ignoramus like myself got caught up in the energy.
June 7, 2016
This honestly is not my type of book to read but I figured what the hey I would give it a try. It was interesting to see how all these authors were affected by the Punk era. We get accounts of what each author saw and felt within the scene along with what was the fashion.
Each author had a different feel to what they were telling us but it all centers around Punk Rock which you learn that some of the authors were official "Punk" but hey they felt the music within their soul. They felt the deaths of the music icons when their time came to past. I have to say there was one story in here that I literally laughed so hard at. I can not remember the title of the top of my head but it has to do with being a teenager and going to see the Clash and he ends up in the back of his car instead with vomit on his jacket.
If you like to read about memories and some fictional stories along with seeing some pictures of famous Punk Rockers then give this book a try. It is a quick read once you get into it.
Each author had a different feel to what they were telling us but it all centers around Punk Rock which you learn that some of the authors were official "Punk" but hey they felt the music within their soul. They felt the deaths of the music icons when their time came to past. I have to say there was one story in here that I literally laughed so hard at. I can not remember the title of the top of my head but it has to do with being a teenager and going to see the Clash and he ends up in the back of his car instead with vomit on his jacket.
If you like to read about memories and some fictional stories along with seeing some pictures of famous Punk Rockers then give this book a try. It is a quick read once you get into it.
June 26, 2016
Much as LA Punk Rocker did before it, Punk Rocker celebrates and analyzes this very specific and colorful era of rock & roll in a collection of short stories and memory pieces from writers who were "in the soup." Writer/curator, Brenda Perlin, puts the anthology together well, mixing each writer’s memories with her photographs of the time, as well as those of writer/photographer Alison Braun. Perlin also shares her own tales of seeking her identity within the culture of this burgeoning movement. In particular, her tribute to David Bowie is touching and deeply felt.
Again, the quality of writing and the emotional impact varies from writer to writer, but, by and large, this collection does a better job of going deeper, getting more personal, and exploring a wider range of perspectives than the first. Standouts for me were Alison Braun's "In Memory of a Pistol Packing Reganite," with its moving story of unexpectedly connecting to her father while on a rock & roll adventure; Christopher Fischer's "Rebel Yell," with its self-effacing and humorous depiction of finding oneself, as well as one's hair style, is delightful; Janet Salopek Green's, "What Punk Rock Gave Me," is a poignant look into one girl's coming-of-age during the era; Erin McGowan's "The Riot House" offers a captivating memory piece of following her punker sister into rock & roll parts unknown and coming out the other side forever changed; Alan Wynzel's hilarious and visceral "An Ice Cream Calling..." was likely the funniest piece in the book, and certainly the two pieces offered by Mark Barry, one of my favorite novelists on the scene today, are perfect bookends for the collection: "Highway One" (with its imagined Billy Idol road trip up the California coast) and "The Jacket" (a clever bit of anthropomorphism in the form of a jacket that's experienced some serious punk rock history) are both stellar examples of Barry's clever and always brilliant voice.
[NOTE: I would suggest a Table of Contents be added to the book, making it easier to revisit or reference certain pieces.]
Whatever else one might enjoy about each of these stories, the prevailing take-away is a clear and passionate sense of just how much this time, this music, and the culture it inspired, meant to these writers. Whether you were a part of it or not, you can't help but be left with an appreciation.
Again, the quality of writing and the emotional impact varies from writer to writer, but, by and large, this collection does a better job of going deeper, getting more personal, and exploring a wider range of perspectives than the first. Standouts for me were Alison Braun's "In Memory of a Pistol Packing Reganite," with its moving story of unexpectedly connecting to her father while on a rock & roll adventure; Christopher Fischer's "Rebel Yell," with its self-effacing and humorous depiction of finding oneself, as well as one's hair style, is delightful; Janet Salopek Green's, "What Punk Rock Gave Me," is a poignant look into one girl's coming-of-age during the era; Erin McGowan's "The Riot House" offers a captivating memory piece of following her punker sister into rock & roll parts unknown and coming out the other side forever changed; Alan Wynzel's hilarious and visceral "An Ice Cream Calling..." was likely the funniest piece in the book, and certainly the two pieces offered by Mark Barry, one of my favorite novelists on the scene today, are perfect bookends for the collection: "Highway One" (with its imagined Billy Idol road trip up the California coast) and "The Jacket" (a clever bit of anthropomorphism in the form of a jacket that's experienced some serious punk rock history) are both stellar examples of Barry's clever and always brilliant voice.
[NOTE: I would suggest a Table of Contents be added to the book, making it easier to revisit or reference certain pieces.]
Whatever else one might enjoy about each of these stories, the prevailing take-away is a clear and passionate sense of just how much this time, this music, and the culture it inspired, meant to these writers. Whether you were a part of it or not, you can't help but be left with an appreciation.
June 7, 2016
This book is for the people who never grew out of it. It is mostly reminiscences of the punk scene and a small amount of fiction (including Mark Barry’s splendid tale of a leather jacket with a famous previous owner).
I’m going to give you just one short quote from each of the contributors and you’ll know if this book is for you:
Brenda Perlin “The stimulation was such that I didn’t know where to look next”.
Jim Kavanagh “I used to fear family functions that I had to attend, having to borrow “normal” clothes”.
Carla Mullins “your soul is touched when you hear him sing”.
Jorge P. Newbery “Suddenly, nerds like me were cool”.
Caddy Rowland “Females at the Longhorn had to have a deep love for punk music and balls made of concrete”.
Alison Braun “It started as a challenge”.
Steven E. Metz “If you used temporary dye, you were a poser”.
Christoph Fischer “I may have looked like a tit, but I felt like a real rebel”.
Janet Salopek Green “I was that weird virgin”.
Erin McGowan “Mary flitted from group to group like a butterfly on speed”.
Alan Wynzel “I never ate that ice cream”.
Mark Barry “You’re never going to get a stinking, brooding, red-hot, vein-pumped, high-voltage, bishop’s mitre-headed Eiffel tower of a hard-on for apple pie, but you’re not going to refuse a second helping if there’s one going begging”.
It mentions loads of bands; Circle Jerks, The Damned, The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, Billy Idol, The Clash, Minor Threat, Suicidal Tendencies, Jilted John and many more. It’s authentic and written by people who are truly passionate about music. It also contains some of Alison Braun’s amazing photos. It reminded me of the time I saw The Ramones in 1992. I love this book as much as Iggy loves taking his shirt off.
I’m going to give you just one short quote from each of the contributors and you’ll know if this book is for you:
Brenda Perlin “The stimulation was such that I didn’t know where to look next”.
Jim Kavanagh “I used to fear family functions that I had to attend, having to borrow “normal” clothes”.
Carla Mullins “your soul is touched when you hear him sing”.
Jorge P. Newbery “Suddenly, nerds like me were cool”.
Caddy Rowland “Females at the Longhorn had to have a deep love for punk music and balls made of concrete”.
Alison Braun “It started as a challenge”.
Steven E. Metz “If you used temporary dye, you were a poser”.
Christoph Fischer “I may have looked like a tit, but I felt like a real rebel”.
Janet Salopek Green “I was that weird virgin”.
Erin McGowan “Mary flitted from group to group like a butterfly on speed”.
Alan Wynzel “I never ate that ice cream”.
Mark Barry “You’re never going to get a stinking, brooding, red-hot, vein-pumped, high-voltage, bishop’s mitre-headed Eiffel tower of a hard-on for apple pie, but you’re not going to refuse a second helping if there’s one going begging”.
It mentions loads of bands; Circle Jerks, The Damned, The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, Billy Idol, The Clash, Minor Threat, Suicidal Tendencies, Jilted John and many more. It’s authentic and written by people who are truly passionate about music. It also contains some of Alison Braun’s amazing photos. It reminded me of the time I saw The Ramones in 1992. I love this book as much as Iggy loves taking his shirt off.
June 23, 2016
A Great Compilation Honours an Exciting Era
I love short pieces; short stories are my favorite read. And so I loved this book. In its mélange of fiction, memory and memoir, it's a beautifully written and moving tribute to a great era in music.
I especially enjoyed Mark Barry's two pieces, Highway One, and The Jacket. And as a cri de coeur Christophe Fischer's, Rebel Yell and A Night to Remember are excellent memoirs. And I was most impressed by Jim Kavanagh's hard-hitting tales of Punk experience in New York.
Brenda Perlin's moving dedication to David Bowie kicks things off and is well worth the price of admission. Her piece, No Future, is vibrant and telling, and her story, The Mirror closes the book superbly.
What I loved most in this anthology, is the sense of authenticity as the tales transport us back to an exciting era of musical vitality. I'll re-read this book from time to time. And having enjoyed this, I shall also grab a copy of LA Punk Rocker. If you're a music lover, get a copy of this book and the great stories it contains. Well recommended.
June 12, 2016
*** Grab, Devour, Pogo ***
Forrest Gump's mother notably observed that life resembles a box of chocolates, and that one never knows what one is going to get. "Punk Rocker" is not dissimilar to life in this respect - save that, with Brenda Perlin's book, there are no coffee creams. For those of us who lived through this nihilistic phenomenon of the Seventies, this collection of reminiscences and anecdotes is a happy return to days of no-responsibility and No Future (to coin a Sex Pistols phrase). An easy read, but with some good writing nonetheless: I especially enjoyed the surreal tale of a leather jacket told in the first person(!). Grab it, devour it, pogo. It's later than you think.
June 11, 2016
This is an extremely quick read. It's a collection of memories and events that altered and inspired each author individually. It's true that music is the key to the heart and soul, and it's nice to hear how certain entertainers/events altered and affected others lives. There's not really a rhyme or reason to the events or stories, they don't inter mix. I tend to prefer stories I can fall into, but was still entertained by most of the stories. I loved the pictures that were included, it really gave you a look into the authors lives.
June 13, 2017
This is a pretty good anthology collection of punk rock days and fictional stories. I enjoyed the Billy Idol fanfiction which has actually got me reading Billy Idol's biography now. If you enjoyed living the punk scene or just want to learn about it, this would be a good crash course to read through. It doesn't take too long and is great for quick reading sprints.
May 17, 2016
Punk Rocker is a terrific anthology made up of a mixture of memories and memoir, dedications and fictional short stories. So much has gone into the writing of this book that I can’t possibly do it justice in this short space but, doing what I can, here is my review.
While this book was coming together there were some huge losses to the music industry and it is therefore fitting that it opens with a dedication to David Bowie by Brenda Perlin and Scott Weiland by Jim Kavanagh. Both these writers convey that sense of loss that envelopes people when someone they idolised, though may never have met, dies.
There’s a poem from Carla Mullins called License to Thrill in which she expresses her love affair with punk rock. This is followed by the first short story from Mark Barry called Highway One. It tells the tale of Billy Idol, his beloved Harley and a trip up Highway One. Some precious time out before he sets off on a massive nationwide tour. Then, he meets a girl. Told in Barry’s inimitable style this is filled with delicious descriptions, wry observations and is a delight to read…and reread, because you’ll want to.
I haven’t come across Jim Kavanagh before but I thoroughly enjoyed his real life tales of Punk in New York City, an autobiographical account of his life at the time as he ran the streets, December 1980 which covers the shocking death of John Lennon, and finally, Sid.
Rebel Yell by Christoph Fischer was a favourite, among the many, and through his words I could feel his yearning for another life, a cooler life, a real life with his depiction of his teenage years in a Bavarian, small rural town. In a second piece, A Night to Remember, Fischer has grown up. He’s at college, loving life and protesting at every opportunity. This lifts the lid on one particular night.
Jorge P. Newbery has included anecdotes by way of a couple of excerpts from his own book, Burn Zones. This is an autobiographical account of how he was pushed to his physical and mental limits during his time of strife, and how he overcame the challenges he faced.
Caddy Rowland recalls her memories of Jay’s Longhorn Bar in Punk Paradise, Minnesota Style. I thoroughly related to her relief at being offered salvation from the disco scene and enjoyed her reminiscences.
In Memory of a Pistol Packing Reganite, is the fabulous addition to this anthology by Alison Braun and regales its readers with her experiences of the punk scene with the coolest dad ever. I was so envious reading this.
Steven E Metz was impossibly young when he got involved in L.A. Punk and in Listen to a Fifth Grader he tells the story of a night when it all went wrong. Having been brought up in the English countryside where our socialising was done rather differently and therefore never having been in a nightclub I loved reading Godzilla’s by Brenda Perlin. Godzilla’s was a punk club that opened in 1981 and it was where Perlin worked, not so much for the want of a job but so that she could get to see the bands for free. Perlin got to see some great bands and experienced the sort of exciting life every teen is seeking.
It’s so interesting to read about the experiences others had at ages you can relate to and this is as true of Godzilla’s as it is of the next, What Punk Rock Gave Me by Janet Salopek Green. Janet was a Catholic School Girl and tells of her experiences with the music and fashion of the time. I rather liked the ‘someone’s mother once pointed out that while we all thought we were so original, we had simply changed uniforms.’ Janet’s story also touches on the deaths involved and the impact that caused for her.
The Riot House by Erin McGowan was a great read. I loved the tale of this straight little girl who only wanted an early night because she had an algebra test the next day. But then she saw her sister escaping from the house and her plans changed. This story shows how by one decision one night can change everything.
The tale of An Ice Cream Calling: at The Clash Show Asbury Park Convention Hall 1982 by Alan Wynzel had me grinning. The painful memories just kept coming in this one, from the trying to be Punk thing to the joy of getting the tickets then on to the big event. Too much booze, real Punks, the unfortunate incident with the girls and of course, the ice cream…oh dear.
Brenda Perlin brings a reality check as she discusses the darker side of life in No Future both for the idols of the time, their fans and all who chose that lifestyle. This leads into the second fictional short story from Mark Barry. Titled, The Jacket, this is the autobiographical account of a jacket, a Brando, of course, and the history of its ownership which sets it apart from other jackets. It’s been there, done it and seen life as few others have and Barry is just the writer to bring you this glorious tale. I won’t tell you who owned The Jacket, that is for you to discover and as always I shall be envious of whoever is about to embark on reading Barry’s work. Enjoy.
Lastly, and most poignantly we come full circle from the first dedication as Brenda Perlin brings us The Mirror… I shall say no more on this as you need to come across it, and all the other golden nuggets that fill this book, yourself.
While this book was coming together there were some huge losses to the music industry and it is therefore fitting that it opens with a dedication to David Bowie by Brenda Perlin and Scott Weiland by Jim Kavanagh. Both these writers convey that sense of loss that envelopes people when someone they idolised, though may never have met, dies.
There’s a poem from Carla Mullins called License to Thrill in which she expresses her love affair with punk rock. This is followed by the first short story from Mark Barry called Highway One. It tells the tale of Billy Idol, his beloved Harley and a trip up Highway One. Some precious time out before he sets off on a massive nationwide tour. Then, he meets a girl. Told in Barry’s inimitable style this is filled with delicious descriptions, wry observations and is a delight to read…and reread, because you’ll want to.
I haven’t come across Jim Kavanagh before but I thoroughly enjoyed his real life tales of Punk in New York City, an autobiographical account of his life at the time as he ran the streets, December 1980 which covers the shocking death of John Lennon, and finally, Sid.
Rebel Yell by Christoph Fischer was a favourite, among the many, and through his words I could feel his yearning for another life, a cooler life, a real life with his depiction of his teenage years in a Bavarian, small rural town. In a second piece, A Night to Remember, Fischer has grown up. He’s at college, loving life and protesting at every opportunity. This lifts the lid on one particular night.
Jorge P. Newbery has included anecdotes by way of a couple of excerpts from his own book, Burn Zones. This is an autobiographical account of how he was pushed to his physical and mental limits during his time of strife, and how he overcame the challenges he faced.
Caddy Rowland recalls her memories of Jay’s Longhorn Bar in Punk Paradise, Minnesota Style. I thoroughly related to her relief at being offered salvation from the disco scene and enjoyed her reminiscences.
In Memory of a Pistol Packing Reganite, is the fabulous addition to this anthology by Alison Braun and regales its readers with her experiences of the punk scene with the coolest dad ever. I was so envious reading this.
Steven E Metz was impossibly young when he got involved in L.A. Punk and in Listen to a Fifth Grader he tells the story of a night when it all went wrong. Having been brought up in the English countryside where our socialising was done rather differently and therefore never having been in a nightclub I loved reading Godzilla’s by Brenda Perlin. Godzilla’s was a punk club that opened in 1981 and it was where Perlin worked, not so much for the want of a job but so that she could get to see the bands for free. Perlin got to see some great bands and experienced the sort of exciting life every teen is seeking.
It’s so interesting to read about the experiences others had at ages you can relate to and this is as true of Godzilla’s as it is of the next, What Punk Rock Gave Me by Janet Salopek Green. Janet was a Catholic School Girl and tells of her experiences with the music and fashion of the time. I rather liked the ‘someone’s mother once pointed out that while we all thought we were so original, we had simply changed uniforms.’ Janet’s story also touches on the deaths involved and the impact that caused for her.
The Riot House by Erin McGowan was a great read. I loved the tale of this straight little girl who only wanted an early night because she had an algebra test the next day. But then she saw her sister escaping from the house and her plans changed. This story shows how by one decision one night can change everything.
The tale of An Ice Cream Calling: at The Clash Show Asbury Park Convention Hall 1982 by Alan Wynzel had me grinning. The painful memories just kept coming in this one, from the trying to be Punk thing to the joy of getting the tickets then on to the big event. Too much booze, real Punks, the unfortunate incident with the girls and of course, the ice cream…oh dear.
Brenda Perlin brings a reality check as she discusses the darker side of life in No Future both for the idols of the time, their fans and all who chose that lifestyle. This leads into the second fictional short story from Mark Barry. Titled, The Jacket, this is the autobiographical account of a jacket, a Brando, of course, and the history of its ownership which sets it apart from other jackets. It’s been there, done it and seen life as few others have and Barry is just the writer to bring you this glorious tale. I won’t tell you who owned The Jacket, that is for you to discover and as always I shall be envious of whoever is about to embark on reading Barry’s work. Enjoy.
Lastly, and most poignantly we come full circle from the first dedication as Brenda Perlin brings us The Mirror… I shall say no more on this as you need to come across it, and all the other golden nuggets that fill this book, yourself.
June 26, 2016
Much as LA Punk Rocker did before it, Punk Rocker celebrates and analyzes this very specific and colorful era of rock & roll in a collection of short stories and memory pieces from writers who were "in the soup." Writer/curator, Brenda Perlin, puts the anthology together well, mixing each writer’s memories with her photographs of the time, as well as those of writer/photographer Alison Braun. Perlin also shares her own tales of seeking her identity within the culture of this burgeoning movement. In particular, her tribute to David Bowie is touching and deeply felt.
Again, the quality of writing and the emotional impact varies from writer to writer, but, by and large, this collection does a better job of going deeper, getting more personal, and exploring a wider range of perspectives than the first. Standouts for me were Alison Braun's "In Memory of a Pistol Packing Reganite," with its moving story of unexpectedly connecting to her father while on a rock & roll adventure; Christopher Fischer's "Rebel Yell," with its self-effacing and humorous depiction of finding oneself, as well as one's hair style, is delightful; Janet Salopek Green's, "What Punk Rock Gave Me," is a poignant look into one girl's coming-of-age during the era; Erin McGowan's "The Riot House" offers a captivating memory piece of following her punker sister into rock & roll parts unknown and coming out the other side forever changed; Alan Wynzel's hilarious and visceral "An Ice Cream Calling..." was likely the funniest piece in the book, and certainly the two pieces offered by Mark Barry, one of my favorite novelists on the scene today, are perfect bookends for the collection: "Highway One" (with its imagined Billy Idol road trip up the California coast) and "The Jacket" (a clever bit of anthropomorphism in the form of a jacket that's experienced some serious punk rock history) are both stellar examples of Barry's clever and always brilliant voice.
[NOTE: I would suggest a Table of Contents be added to the book, making it easier to revisit or reference certain pieces.]
Whatever else one might enjoy about each of these stories, the prevailing take-away is a clear and passionate sense of just how much this time, this music, and the culture it inspired, meant to these writers. Whether you were a part of it or not, you can't help but be left with an appreciation.
Again, the quality of writing and the emotional impact varies from writer to writer, but, by and large, this collection does a better job of going deeper, getting more personal, and exploring a wider range of perspectives than the first. Standouts for me were Alison Braun's "In Memory of a Pistol Packing Reganite," with its moving story of unexpectedly connecting to her father while on a rock & roll adventure; Christopher Fischer's "Rebel Yell," with its self-effacing and humorous depiction of finding oneself, as well as one's hair style, is delightful; Janet Salopek Green's, "What Punk Rock Gave Me," is a poignant look into one girl's coming-of-age during the era; Erin McGowan's "The Riot House" offers a captivating memory piece of following her punker sister into rock & roll parts unknown and coming out the other side forever changed; Alan Wynzel's hilarious and visceral "An Ice Cream Calling..." was likely the funniest piece in the book, and certainly the two pieces offered by Mark Barry, one of my favorite novelists on the scene today, are perfect bookends for the collection: "Highway One" (with its imagined Billy Idol road trip up the California coast) and "The Jacket" (a clever bit of anthropomorphism in the form of a jacket that's experienced some serious punk rock history) are both stellar examples of Barry's clever and always brilliant voice.
[NOTE: I would suggest a Table of Contents be added to the book, making it easier to revisit or reference certain pieces.]
Whatever else one might enjoy about each of these stories, the prevailing take-away is a clear and passionate sense of just how much this time, this music, and the culture it inspired, meant to these writers. Whether you were a part of it or not, you can't help but be left with an appreciation.
May 15, 2016
Punk Rock Stories
Punk Rocker is a volume of wonderful punk rock stories.
I loved Brenda Perlin’s No Future. She adroitly captures a teen’s view of the world, giving us a glimpse of her zest for life and living for the day. Her dedication to David Bowie at the beginning is poignant.
I also enjoyed the story by Christoph Fischer. I’m a fan of his historical fiction, and it was a pleasant surprise to read his perspective on punk rock.
The images add a depth and breadth to the story. They help us visualize a time gone, but not forgotten.
Don’t forget to check out the companion, L. A. Punk Rocker. It’s a beautifully written depiction of punk rock.
Punk Rocker is a volume of wonderful punk rock stories.
I loved Brenda Perlin’s No Future. She adroitly captures a teen’s view of the world, giving us a glimpse of her zest for life and living for the day. Her dedication to David Bowie at the beginning is poignant.
I also enjoyed the story by Christoph Fischer. I’m a fan of his historical fiction, and it was a pleasant surprise to read his perspective on punk rock.
The images add a depth and breadth to the story. They help us visualize a time gone, but not forgotten.
Don’t forget to check out the companion, L. A. Punk Rocker. It’s a beautifully written depiction of punk rock.
August 20, 2016
A fantastic companion piece to L.A. Punk Rocker, this book shares more stories from the punk era, with a few fictional tales mixed in. New contributors bring punk-era tales from not only Los Angeles, but New York City, Minneapolis, the U.K., and more. This nostalgic tome is generously peppered with vintage photos, adding to the flavor and immersion of the times.
July 8, 2016
This anthology is a gem of a read. A collection of short stories written by those who were there, we get a fascinating glimpse into the gritty, raw counter culture that was Punk. The stories pull you in and take you along for the ride of your life. Recommended reading!
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