Saturday 10 February 2018

A Trip Through Ladbroke Grove The Life and Times of Underground Hero Steve Peregrin Took By Fee Warner (Book Review)


A Trip Through Ladbroke Grove
The Life and Times of Underground Hero    
Steve Peregrin Took

                 
Author/Editor/Compiler: Fee Warner
Limited edition hardback book.

Hand numbered 250 Copies.




Steve Took has often been consigned to a mere footnote in rock music’s illustrious and controversial existence, this book finally elevates his status, and as you will read deservedly so.

Firstly it deals with the Marc Bolan and Tyrannosaurus Rex period with clarity and some honest talking, “Tooky” was never the sidekick or just that “bloke” with Bolan, he was in fact an equal partner and just as important to the sound and creation of the whole bands concept.

Then it goes into the whole crazy world of the underground scene taking in The Deviants, Pink Fairies, Hawkwind, Motorhead, David Bowie, Syd Barrett and even the MC5.

In fact I have to say from my own personal perspective that this is one of the most fascinating anecdotal books written and compiled on the underground with comments and memories from a host of respected writers and musicians including Mick Farren, Michael Moorcock, Nik Turner, Lemmy, Larry Wallis and Russell Hunter.
Add to this highly interesting and, at times perhaps controversial, comments from close family, friends and collaborators, what we end up with is a detailed look into the world of “Tooky” which also reflects the whole scene as it moved and changed withy the times.

As if this wasn’t enough we are treated to many previously unseen photographs, some fascinating press cuttings, reprints of original interviews and some stunning illustrations.

Has to be said that even the books design is a sight to behold, each section perfectly laid out in green, red and black text, oh and a really nice touch is the ribbon bookmark attached to the hardback.

Not since Jonathan Green’s 1988 book ‘Days in the Life: Voices from the English Underground, 1961-71’, has so much amazing information been forthcoming from those who were there and nice to hear it directly from them, they tell it as it was, sometimes that can be uncomfortable, Lemmys son Paul Inder is a great example of words from the heart with no agenda other than honesty.

Anyone who has more than a passing interest in rock history would do well to purchase a copy, you may not really know Steve Took at the beginning of the book but by the end you will have a greater understanding of the contribution he made to music and the lives of the people around him.  


Books written with this much dedication, love and attention to detail are few and far between, Fee Warner is to be commended on producing one of the best music books I have ever read.

Steve Took Official Website:

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1 comment:

Fee said...

Many Thanks for your review. It was a pleasure to write Steve Took's biography and I look forward to expanding some of the text with feedback and more information from people who knew Steve, ready for the paperback second edition. For anyone who wants this signed, numbered full-colour First Edition then time is running out as they sell.