While American Hardcore already took a swing at detailing the history of hardcore in the US (yes, the title is pretty self-explanatory), there were certain scenes that maybe didn’t get as much attention as they would’ve liked. Take Detroit for example. Luckily there was one man who not would let this injustice go by unnoticed.
Named after the Negative Approach song “Why Be Something You’re Not”, this book is writen by freelance music journalist Tony Rettman who did a pretty good job of getting all of the key figures to contribute and who then poured everything in a readable book that consists of everyone’s oral recollections strung together.
Like I said, “Why Be Something That You’re Not “ tells the story of hardcore punk in Detroit and the whole Touch and Go scene featuring among others The Fix, Necros, Meatmen, Negative Approach and Bored Youth. Not only does it talk at great length about the bands, stories about clubs, tours, zines, recordings and so on are featured as well. Sometimes it feels like the only thing missing is what a certain someone had for lunch but in the end this book paints a clear picture of what can happen when a couple of bored kids decide to start make music. Strewn throughout the book are countless photos and flyers and towards the end you’ll find a thorough discography of all the bands involved.
This is a very solid read that belongs in your collection right beside “American Hardcore” and Henry Rollins’ “Get In The Van”.
Score: 8.5 out of 10
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