[noisereductions]

the ENDTRODUCING one was alright, but it was basically just a really long interview. They're stupid. But I feel I SHOULD own it as a fan. Sigh.

[RanaldoNecro]

what on earth makes authors think that people read books about classic records to find out more about the author?

I read the Stone Roses one and it suffered the same fate. Anytime you are going to write something about something so close to peoples heart that is what is going to happen. The same is with writing Sonic Youth books.

An army of fanboys are going to scrutinze every word. It probably isn't worth it.

[atsonicpark]

I really enjoyed the trout mask replica 33 1/3 book, it had like 4 things in it I'd never heard before, so it was worth the $5 used price.

But, yes, I think anyone can write one, I think you just have to apply with them and send em a writing sample.

[Count Mecha]

Confusion is the only full one I've read. I remember liking it, but not liking that it was dated to EJSTANS, good beginning, cool pictures, basically what's already been said.

I'd like to read this Goodbye 20th Century one though, I'll have to remember it.

Their section in Our Band Could Be Your Life is pretty cool too, albeit brief. So if someone's hankering for a quickie overview of the band, that's pretty good. Good book in general for the other bands.

[negative8ball]

I like the 33 1/3 books for what they are... essentially mini magazines devoted to (more or less) an album I like. They're perfect commuter fodder (subways and buses).

I don't like to gauge books' worthiness based on where I'd read 'em, but they do have a pulp-like feel to them. And the injection of a "fan" into the mix, when well written, is fine... I didn't mind Colin Meloy's Replacements book (but I'm a Decemberists fan).

And I liked the 100 page Shadow interview that was Entroducing.

Some are TERRIBLE. I keep picking up Daydream and thumbing through it then putting it back down. I just can't imagine it being enjoyable... and it sounds like I'm right. [smirk]

And G20C is the better book, but I love the dated optimism of Confusion Is Next... having spent my formative years in the "Alternative Era" - a book without the cynical edge looking back on that is kinda fun.

[tough titty]

"I Dreamed Of Noise" is my personal favourite Sonic Youth book because the band does most of the talking.

[Tokolosh]

I just bought Goodbye 20th Century for 6 euros at FAME in Amsterdam... of all places.
They still have a couple of copies if any Dutch boardies are interested.

[SONIC GAIL]

I have only read goodbye 20th Century, but I have heard through very reliable sources that the other has lass facts wrong and is SY's preferred version. I have to get it now so I can come to my own conclusion. I do adore Goodbye 20th though. I like david's writing style a lot

[Rob Instigator]

Originally Posted by Beautiful Plateau

It's a great book, if you know how to read between the lines...

exactly! Re: confusion is...