Of all the music Bios read in 22

This is the business. It really is the absolute balls and all testimony from someone who was in the thick of the rock punk and indie scene

This fella has some stories to tell. First class book and the best one of all the bios read in 2022 without a doubt

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Listened to on a whim

Honestly one of the best books Iv heard. The music scene is far from fun fun fun.

Brilliantly written, honest and moving!

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Vital

An incredibly important piece of work surrounding the necessary discussion of mental health and distribution of power within the music industry.

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An amazing listen!

Having read a plethora of biographies and autobiographies of my favoured musicians, this anecdotal book shines a startling light on a glamorised industry that has a much darker and sinister side. Ian writes and narrates beautifully, keeping me hooked throughout. There are many elements that I can relate to and hearing of his experiences and his success in overcoming his darker times, has given me an important ingredient in my own struggles. Hope. Thank you for this book

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if only they'd had support

I pre-ordered this and started it as soon as it was in my library. I'm a trainee psychotherapist and a huge music fan so it was the perfect book. Ian's narration is warm and caring and the compassion for the people he writes about is really evident. I knew about a lot of the musicians he writes about but it didn't make their stories any easier to listen to. In fact - it made me sad for the things they could have done and the people they could have been if they'd had the right support.
Ian writes candidly about his own struggles with addiction.
I will warn you that there is - a lot of swearing, so if you're offended by really sweary words, it's probably not the book for you.

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Honest insights into the music industry’s disregard for its casualties

A deeply honest and personal view of how the music industry pushes its often emotionally vulnerable artists to the point of self-destruction, and casually abandons them. Rock critic biographies are often just a compilation of band biographies, but Bodies isn’t just random reminiscences, every story or interview is included for a reason, to bolster the narrative. Well written, unpretentious and well read.

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A must read book

An incredibly insightful book, detailing the chaos and tragedy which blights the music industry. Ians deeply personal invite the reader into his own mental health and addictions gives the words validation as well as making it a compelling read. Never falling into the trap of over sensationalising the stories it is clear why he is a well respected music journalist. I would recommend to anyone - don’t feel you have to be a fan of metal to get the message - it’s a tough message but Ian navigates himself and the reader through it brilliantly.

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This book is important

This book is important, our music industry will die on it's feet unless musicians are at least given a working wage. It has made me reconsider Spotify. I now understand why George Michael and Neil Young made a stand against the financial predators.

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Truly a magnificent book.

Whether you have experience within the industry or not, or just a love for your favourite bands. Please have this incredibly funny & dark insight into what is a wonderful & dark industry. I was truly sad to hear the end of this book. Wonderful stuff.

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Hands down the best book on music I’ve ever “read”

Thoroughly engaging from start to finish. I enjoyed the backstage stories from some of my favourite bands and appreciated the authors sensitive handling and honesty on so many difficult topics. This really is a must read book

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