Description
Book SynopsisOver half a century since they exploded inevitably onto New York’s underground music and art scenes, the legacy and mythology of The Velvet Underground continues to resonate and grow, as new generations embrace their enigmatic command of the darkest strain of alternative cool. Lou Reed, John Cale, Nico, Sterling Morrison and Moe Tucker, with the naïve encouragement of Andy Warhol, created a world of music, words and scenes which blew up the notion of the peace-and-love sixties and tapped into a nocturnal milieu of art, literature, drugs, sex and decadence. Their albums survive as caustic classics, among the most influential records ever made.
Not only did author Chris Roberts interview the late Lou Reed three times, he was also once told, “Move – you are sitting on my coat” by the unmistakable voice of Nico, backstage at a gig. Here he recounts and celebrates the fascinating, multi-faceted story of perhaps the most mysterious and unique rock band ever to exist. A complex, contrary, clashing set of characters who came together to start fires while drawing down darkness, The Velvets’ legend will forever run run run.
Trade ReviewChris Roberts has created a small but perfectly formed biography of The Velvet Underground, one of the most inscrutable bands ever. Contemporary photographs and ephemera set the scene, whilst archive and personal interviews with the band, many conducted by the author, offer an insight into the minds of the band members. There is no shortage of books about The Velvet Underground, but few are as enjoyable as Chris Roberts’ one - it has the feel of a work by an insider. Knowledgable, drugged-up and funny as heck, this book is indispensable.
-- - 5 star NetGalley review
A sensational history of the Velvet Underground...Highly recommended, especially for fans of the Velvets, but also for anyone who is interested in the alternative culture of the sixties.
-- - 5 star NetGalley review
"Chris Roberts takes us on a journey through the history of the band. He does an excellent job of navigating the myth and “fake news” that surrounds the band. Lou Reed was especially good at creating spin before that even existed. It’s hard to know whether he knew what was truth or fiction himself at some points. The intake of drugs added to the mix make a potent mystery. Add Andy Warhol to the story arc and there was legend in the making… He takes us through the discography of the band and the production details of each album and the impact that the music made. The volume contains some wonderful photos and illustrations which add to the reading experience. Definitely one to add to your music library."
* Joy Zine *
"Chris Roberts’ The Velvet Underground not only serves as the perfect companion to [Todd Haynes' recent] film but also adds far greater insights into the band’s internal dynamics, their creative processes, and the impact that the Velvets’ music had upon the cultural movements of the time, most notably that of mid-1960s New York… But where The Velvet Underground is at its strongest is by making you want to return to the band’s records and play them over and over again, listening to this groundbreaking music with a far greater understanding and through much fresher ears as you do so."
* God Is In The TV Zine *
"A thoroughly fun, scurrilous read about a band who deserve nothing less."
* Everett True, Classic Rock *
"... a compelling read, with the author’s passion highly infectious."
* Shindig! *
