Dead Man's Curve and Back: The Jan & Dean Story
by Mark Thomas Passmore
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Book Summary Information
Author: Mark Thomas PassmoreEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Original Language); English (Unknown); English (Published)
Published: 2003-10-14
ISBN: 1410756475
Number of pages: 328
Publisher: 1st Books Library
Book Reviews of Dead Man's Curve and Back: The Jan & Dean Story
Book Review: An Outstanding Book
Summary: 5 Stars
I bought this book a few weeks ago, and I am glad I did. I've been a fan of Jan and Dean's music since I was about 12, however, it has greatly intensifed recently, which is why I purchased this book. If you're a fan of Jan and Dean, this is THE book to buy. It covers all of the aspects and details of the duo's lives and careers, up to 2003. Since Jan passed away the following year, that is not featured. Speaking of Jan, I never knew how talented and brilliant he was as an arranger, producer, and songwriter. He was right up there with Brian Wilson, Phil Spector, and Stevie Wonder. The unfortunate thing is hardly anyone knows about it. He truly was a genius, yet it remains in the dark, which is a shame. Had his tragic accident never occured, he would have gone on to do more groundbreaking, innovative things, both in the field of music, and as a doctor (he was in medical school.) The book gradually describes in detail Jan's accident, which left him partially paralyzed and brain damaged, plus the long, challenging recovery that followed, and his eventual return to live performing and songwriting. His life would never be the same, but I greatly admire his determination, tenacity, and strong will. Jan Berry's story is truly inspiring. If I'm not mistaken, one previous reviewer of this book said Jan was "overrated." I disagree. The book simply tells the truth. As for the claim they "rode the coattails of the Beach Boys," that is also false. Jan and Dean were already an established act at the time the Beach Boys first came on the scene. As for the claim all they did was "remake other people's songs," every artist/group of the day did that. Covering one another's songs was commonplace at the time. The book includes numerous photos, details of their childhoods, behind the scenes info on their recordings, stories from those who knew them, as well as Jan and Dean themselves, who gave the author, a fan since seeing their biopic in 1978, their blessing. Photocopies of their personal documents are also included. This is a balanced, fair book, showcasing both the good and not so good, in a respectful, mature, honest light. Lists of their recordings on album and CD are included towards the back. Even websites concerning the duo are listed. All in all, it is the consummate book (so far,) and I cannot stop looking through the pages.
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