Let it Blurt: The Life and Times of Lester Bangs, America's Greatest Rock Critic : Book Review

"Let it Blurt" by Jim DeRogatis is a captivating biography that delves into the fascinating life and career of rock critic Lester Bangs. As an influential figure in the world of music journalism, Bangs's provocative writing style and deep passion for music left a lasting impact on the industry.

DeRogatis takes readers on a journey through Bangs's life, from his troubled childhood to his rise as a prominent music journalist. The author provides an intimate look into Bangs's personal struggles, his unwavering love for counterculture music, and his profound influence on the music industry.

One of the book's strengths is DeRogatis's ability to capture Bangs's unique voice and writing style. Through his meticulous research and interviews with those who knew Bangs, DeRogatis paints a comprehensive picture of this enigmatic figure. Readers are able to truly understand Bangs's impact on musicians and his readership through DeRogatis's vivid descriptions and analysis.

Beyond Bangs's personal life, DeRogatis delves into the cultural and political climate of the era, providing readers with a broader understanding of the context in which Bangs's work existed. From his involvement in counterculture movements to his thoughts on societal norms, Bangs's writing was deeply connected to the issues of the time. DeRogatis skillfully explores these connections, shedding light on the cultural significance of Bangs's work.

"Let it Blurt" is not just a biography of Lester Bangs; it is also a tribute to the power of music and its ability to shape individuals and society. DeRogatis has crafted a compelling narrative that will resonate with music enthusiasts, aspiring writers, and anyone interested in the cultural shifts of the 20th century. This biography is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the influential figures that have shaped the world of music.

What are readers saying?

"Let it Blurt" by Jim DeRogatis has generated a range of responses from readers. Many found the book to be a thorough exploration of the life and career of rock music critic Lester Bangs. They commended DeRogatis for his extensive research and ability to capture the essence of Bangs' unique writing style and his impact on the music industry. Readers appreciated the enlightening and well-written nature of the book, which provided valuable insights into the world of music journalism.

However, there were some readers who felt that the book was overly detailed and placed too much focus on Bangs' personal life rather than his work. They desired a more balanced perspective that delved deeper into the cultural and social context of the time. These readers yearned for more analysis and critique of Bangs' writing style and its impact on the music scene.

The book's bias towards Bangs was another element that garnered mixed opinions. Some readers appreciated the author's affectionate portrayal of Bangs, emphasizing his passion for music and dedication to his craft. They found that this added a personal touch to the narrative. On the other hand, some readers felt that this bias hindered the book's objectivity and led to a somewhat one-sided representation of Bangs' life and work.

A few readers also found the book to be excessively long and struggled to maintain engagement throughout. They believed that a more concise and focused narrative, with unnecessary details and tangents removed, would have been preferable.

Overall, "Let it Blurt" provides an in-depth and informative exploration of Lester Bangs' life and career. While some readers appreciated the attention to detail and personal touch, others felt that the book could have benefitted from a more balanced perspective and tighter editing. If you have an interest in music journalism and want to learn about Lester Bangs' influence, this book may be worth considering, though be prepared for its length and focused approach.

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