Pandamonium!

More about the book

Hilarious, heart-wrenching and packed with British music history, this life-and-near-death narrative explores the journey of Simon Williams, a former NME journalist, Xfm radio presenter, and founder of the British record label Fierce Panda. With over thirty years at the forefront of the indie scene, Simon has discovered bands like Coldplay, Keane, and Placebo, some achieving superstardom while others entertained smaller crowds at venues like the Bull & Gate. Unfiltered and unflinching, the story is filled with insider anecdotes that will captivate music enthusiasts, from the origins of a bootlegged Oasis release to Chris Martin's excitement over charting at number ninety-two. However, it also candidly addresses Simon's struggles with mental health, detailing his attempts to bring a premature end to his journey. Despite the raw honesty, Simon's writing radiates warmth, wit, and self-deprecation, reflecting the resilience of someone who has faced the abyss and emerged with a renewed perspective, all while navigating the quirky world of indie music. This account is a testament to survival and the unpredictable nature of the music industry.