Punk Like Me! liner notes for a revolution that almost happened

by Terry James Graham

An autobiographical account of Terry James Graham's experience as punk rock fan and eventually drummer for seminal Los Angeles punk bands The Bags and Gun Club and The Cramps, from 1977 through 1985. The book includes a chapter about the author's childhood and is interspersed with original artwork and photographs from the period.

Genres: Music

398 pages, Paperback

Published August 15, 2017

Reviews

[Adam E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an autobiography by the former drummer of the Bags and Gun Club. It has a lot of stories about the author's sexual exploits which may leave the readers wanting to know more about the music and the touring. He does not always paint Jeffrey Lee Pierce in a flattering way, so if you are a JLP fan, you may be disappointed. The author is a bit of a narcissist and it shows in his writing style. The highlights of the book are when he describes the way some of the records were recorded and his take on which songs turned out the best. There are about 50% pictures of the early punk scene in Los Angeles which are very good, but if you are looking for good writing, not so much.

On December 14, 2019, Terry Graham gave a book reading here in Austin and I felt a bit bad about my review. He has written a book and that is quite an achievement. He grew up in a very exciting time in Los Angeles when punk rock was just beginning. I spoke with him briefly and he was very nice.

[Corey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a roller coaster of literary gems. The first person narrative puts the reader in the scene, while the post-post modern voice gives those of us who weren't born yet a gift of being there. Very well written and researched and not at all a boring chronological description of show after show. If you want to feel, see, taste, and even smell the early LA Punk scene read this book. It's also pretty funny throughout if you like to laugh.