Punk Rock Book Club: Under the Big Black Sun book by John Doe

Under the Big Black Sun book by John Doe delves into the burgeoning punk rock movement in Los Angeles and its transformation into hardcore punk in a unique and unprecedented manner. John Doe, a key member of the iconic band X, and co-author Tom DeSavia have skillfully crafted a captivating narrative that unravels the tale of the legendary West Coast scene from 1977 to 1982, utilizing firsthand accounts from those who experienced it. 

 The book presents chapter-length anecdotes from the authors themselves, complemented by personal essays from notable figures (both celebrated and notorious) within the scene. Interwoven with John Doe's commentary, the book guides readers through a journey amidst the noir-like sunshine of film, Hollywood's hidden corners, and the sprawling suburbs. Enhanced with 50 rare photos.

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REVIEWS

"A collection of essays by a fraternity of key members of L.A.'s early punk scene between 1977 and 1982, before any of them experienced major-label interest and mainstream success…Stories of hardscrabble living, house parties and shambolic shows…Includes loads of photos and vintage gig fliers.” — LA Weekly

 

"The new book from punk icon John Doe offers a history of the overlooked music scene…For anyone who thinks that punk rock was limited to the famed scenes in London and New York, Under the Big Black Sun offers hard evidence that the L.A. scene was just as important—and perhaps created an even greater, lasting impact…A great story about the underappreciated music that came out of the City of Angels during that golden period of 1977-1982.” — Esquire

 

"Under The Big Black Sun opens up L.A.'s punk-rock underbelly…Culled from the personal remembrances of roughly a dozen of the city's most prized punk-rock figures, the book digs deep into the ugly, dangerous, but nonetheless fraternal nature of the burgeoning L.A. punk scene of the late '70s and early '80s. From Hollywood over to East L.A. and south to San Pedro and Huntington Beach, Under The Big Black Sun covers the scene's considerable sprawl, from the sketchy clubs and apartment dwellings to the bands and the drug and booze-fueled chaos that followed them…The dirt dished on the bands and the music is great, but the book wisely casts a wider net to capture broader aspects of early L.A. punk culture…You-had-to-be-there style storytelling.” — AV Club

SPECS

Soft cover, 336 pages, 6 x 0.84 x 9 inches