Simon, coauthor of the emo culture guide Everybody Hurts
and an editor at buzznet.com, set out to write an ethnography of sorts about the “most cherished music scenes” in the country. It’s a promise only partly delivered. The selection of indie music–centric cities is spot-on, ranging from the obvious (Washington, D.C.; Seattle; Twin Cities) to the much less so (suburban Florida). In each section, Simon delivers a capsule “Music Primer” on that scene’s history, what kind of bands populated it, during what time period and what happened to them. Other sections include essential album guides and a helpful “Mapping Out” list that includes travel guide–like notations on local scenester hangouts and record shops. There’s helpful information, to be sure, but it’s all a bit too slight, made cuter with ink illustrations by Dobi. Simon’s text is knowledgeable, and when she actually talks about the music itself the book serves as a helpful jumping-off point for readers looking to learn more. But all too often she resorts to unfunny snark-sniping about categories of scenesters or celebrity rockers. There is too little information here for those who actually know something about the subject and insider-overload for those who don’t. (Apr.)
