To Live's to Fly: The Ballad of the Late Great Townes Van Zandt

Finally, the first official biography of singer-songwriter Townes Van Zandt (1944-1997) arrives; unfortunately, the life story of this troubled Texas troubadour is nearly as grueling to read as it was for Van Zandt to live. Kruth (Bright Moments: The Life and Legacy of Rahsaan Roland Kirk) deserves credit for interviewing scores of family members, friends and associates, but his efforts are diminished by oddly alternating first- and third-person narratives, awkward transitions and text cluttered with excessive quotes. In addition, many anecdotes and quotes from Van Zandt lack attribution. That said, Kruth (a veteran musician himself) shines when providing perspective on the evolving American folk scene and in dissecting numerous albums (some issued after Van Zandt's New Year's Day death at age 52). To be sure, Van Zandt's outrageous penchant for gambling, alcohol and women, not to mention his irresponsible career management, make him a less-than-sympathetic character; more insight into why-rather than countless tales of how-would have made this bio a more worthwhile read.