Anthony Kiedis Scar Tissue review
If you’re like me you’ve been told about this book a few times, but wrote it off because you’re not a huge Chili Peppers fan. It’s is defintintely worth a read though. Because yes, Kiedis notoriously can’t sing in tune but god damn can he write.
Admitedly I’m yet to finish this book. Though I can tell you one thing straight off the bat: if you took out all opiate and cocaine references, it would be a pamphlet barely big enough to wipe your arse with. Not to say it’s not enjoyable, far from it. Kiedis is incredibly erudite and has lived a colorful life right from the get go. Apparently (and he has photographic proof) his first joint was at 12 and it all went buck wild, roller coaster crazy from there.
As far as the Red Hot Chili Peppers (for the unacquanted Kiedis is the front man), it was surprising to see how quickly this band hit pay dirt. Within about 10 gigs a record deal was on the cards. This stuff about the band is probably the most interesting. Second only of course to Kiedis’ Hunter S. Thompson like insights into the nastier bits of L.A. and his dope dealing father. It’s all story telling of true rock and roll hubris and decadence.
One criticism is there’s not a lot of talk about the recording of Blood Sugar Sex Magic album. To my mind, this album was a cornerstone in pop/rock/metal/funk that allowed alternative to break through. There were also so many rumours about the recording of that album that I wish he’d talked about. Also allegedly his bandmate John Frusciante had bouts of insanity I hoped he’d have some insight on (albiet I haven’t finished the last 100 pages). Sadly not. Junkies can be a bit self indulgent.
Add it to your ‘to do list’. The cat can write!
Posted: April 19th, 2012 under Book Reviews, Music.
Tags: anthony kiedis bio, red hot chili peppers, rhcp, rock star bio
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