John Robb is known for his work at the intersection of music journalism and subculture writing. His works often focus on the history and influence of underground music, particularly the punk and DIY scenes. Robb's style is direct and energetic, reflecting his own experiences within the music industry. His writing excels at capturing the spirit of the times and the voices of those who shaped music history from the ground up.
This is the first comprehensive history of goth music and culture. Across more than 500 pages, John Robb explores the origins and legacy of this enduring scene, drawing on his own experience and interviews with a host of bands, from The Banshees and The Cure to Throbbing Gristle. -- .
"'John Robb is as punk rock as The Clash." -- Alan McGee Do You Believe in the Power of Rock & Roll?--A history of alternative rock from music writer John Robb, with the music still ringing in his ears. This collection follows Robb's journey from the late 1970s, when he was first caught up in punk's high-octane thrill, to the present day, via the early days of the rave scene, the birth of electronic and techno, and myriad bands that spun off on their own idiosyncratic paths. Robb was the first person to write about Nirvana, he coined the term Britpop, and he documented the Stone Roses' rise out of Manchester before anyone else was interested. He was at every pivotal gig, and has interviewed every key player in the business, including Jordan, the queen of punk, founding father of new American rock Steve Albini, goth-rock guitarist Daniel Ash, infamous Oasis co-founder Noel Gallagher, and music greats like Lemmy and Poly Styrene. Few others have witnessed first-hand so many important moments of the last forty years of rock history. Here, they come together to form the essential history of a personal quest to document the ever-changing soundtrack of the modern world.
The real story of the Manchester scene in the words of the musicians, promoters, club owners, managers and pundits.
"Part memoir, part mission statement, this is the story of a man whose unwavering journey to save the environment has driven him all the way to the top, and a powerful manifesto for anyone who wants to change the world. Dale Vince has led a remarkable life. From 'enemy of the state' to 'green energy tycoon', he has dedicated his life to challenging conventional wisdom in pursuit of a better way to live" - back cover
"Am Anfang war das Chaos" by John Robb presents the complete history of British punk through the voices of key figures like John Lydon and Siouxsie Sioux. This essential work explores the movement's diverse aspects, including fashion, politics, and music, making it a must-read for fans of punk culture and history.