Sweat: The Story of the Fleshtones, America's Garage Band by Joe Bonomo Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of Sweat: The Story of the Fleshtones, America's Garage Band
Book Review: Excellent book
Summary: 5 Stars
The book arrived in excellent condition, and it's really interesting. The ones who are interested in knowing more about New York scene the purchase of this book is reccomended.Book Review: The Fleshtones: one of the great mysteries of the Universe
Summary: 5 Stars
Joe Bonomo's SWEAT...what else can be said that hasn't been said already? Here's more accolades to heap on the growing pile...
SWEAT is an essential read, it strongly stands right up next to PLEASE KILL ME for many reasons. The book is not just for those who are already fans of Super Rock, but for anyone wanting to learn how hard it can be playing rock'n'roll, and for readers wanting to learn another aspect of the "punk" scene in NYC circa 1970's. It tells the history of the band, gives insight into these complex individuals and the perils they've been thru, and demystifies them. Somehow though, The Fleshtones still are on a plane that makes them who they are, what differentiates them from so many other bands that have come and gone.
Bonomo writes in such a deft way that The Fleshtones are allowed to be who they are, to make the choices they've made (some good, some not so good), and still shows them as the truly unique bunch they are. Judgement is never passed on The Fleshtones in SWEAT; their noses are never rubbed in the messes that might've been created. The tone and style on the book is nearly perfect, putting the reader right there in the middle between the Comedy and Tragedy of it all, not quite knowing if the next turn will be the one that could've ended it all.
Thank you, Joe Bonomo, for taking the time and effort to do this; it is genuinely inspired reading. Your love for them comes through like an avalanche, but you still allowed the harsh realities to exist. This is a book I plan to revisit many times in the future. Well done, sir!
And thank you to The Fleshtones for making music and spreading the gospel of Super Rock. You are the most underappreciated band to come out of NYC from the 70s. Thank you, Peter, Kieth, Bill, Ken, Marek, and all other Fleshtones for not knowing when to walk away. We that are lucky to have found you and are better people for it all. RIP, Gordon -- we'll never forget...
Book Review: super rock storytelling
Summary: 5 Stars
Bonomo did an incredibe favor to all garage rock fans by detailing decades of debauchery, relaying the rollercoaster ride, telling of the tenacity and talent that IS the Fleshtones. I thought I knew a lot about super-rock. I learned so much more from this read. For example, I never knew they were on American Bandstand or that Peter liked disco! I've been a fan for 24 years now. One of my first live shows was to see the 'tones in '83. I finished reading this last week but it is sticking with me, I keep thinking about it. This book documents all the realities and injustices of the music industry. It reconfirms my hatred of corporate rock, and love of independents, non-comercial radio, and musicians that do it for a higher purpose. Thank you!Book Review: The Trials & The Tribulations, The Blue Whales & The Bacchanalia...
Summary: 5 Stars
Author Joe Bonomo has produced a labor of love detailing the ups and downs (and worse) of America's undiscovered, greatest rock and roll treasure - The Fleshtones.
This book captures their wild abandon, the influences that made them who they are and ever-present obstacles in their way (be they from an indifferent record industry, bad planning, or their own personal demons).
If you are a contemporary of the band and think you know their story, you don't. Every chapter reveals a new insight, a new wrinkle, a new disaster gone right that you've never heard. And if you never heard of the Fleshtones and want to know what it's like to be in a REAL rock and roll band - this book is for you.
Book Review: The Story Of Super Rock
Summary: 5 Stars
SWEAT is a fast, funny, detailed and well-written account of The Fleshtones story. For over 30 years, The Fleshtones have pounded out their soul/garage review to adoring fans around the world. Although never reaching more than cult status, they've continued to believe in the sound, attitude, and friendship that's sustained them throughout their career.
Like most rock bios. SWEAT chronicles the universals of a career in Rock both good and bad; All the booze, dope, poverty, and bad business deals are there along with the house-wrecking gigs, lifetime friendships, loyal fans and timeless music. Success (or at least solvency) occasionaly rears it's head but never for long. In the end, SWEAT is about persistence and belief. If you love The Fleshtones, this book is a must-read. Even if you're just interested in a great rock and roll story, this book is for you. Author Joe Bonomo and Continuum Books really deserve a lot of credit for letting this story be told.