Loudmouth: A Novel

LOUDMOUTH is a novel that follows the life of Thomas Ransom, a musician and writer who becomes involved with the punk, hippie, and rock scenes in New York City in the 1970s. The book is based on the experiences of author Robert Duncan, who wrote for Creem and Rolling Stone and interviewed hundreds of rock stars.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 22 October 2020
Publisher: Three Rooms Press

“LOUDMOUTH is a captivating and evocative novel that delves into the heart of the rock and roll scene of the 1970s. Written by Robert Duncan, a seasoned journalist and music aficionado, the book offers a raw and honest portrayal of the era, capturing the essence of its music, culture, and characters.

The story follows Thomas Ransom, a young man born into a dysfunctional southern family and transplanted to New York City. Left to his own devices by neglectful parents, he spends his childhood navigating the streets, hanging out with his criminally-inclined half-brother, and immersing himself in the city's vibrant music scene. Thomas eventually finds an outlet as the flamboyant singer of a downtown rock band, but his life takes a turn when he becomes the young editor of the Detroit-based magazine that invented punk.

As Thomas returns to New York at the height of the 1970s bacchanal, he finds himself caught up in the world of drugs, sex, and rock and roll. But it is not music that saves him. Instead, it is a soft-spoken painter who turns out to be the most outrageous character of all. With echoes of classics such as Almost Famous and Just Kids, LOUDMOUTH tracks an impassioned musician and writer out among the punks, hippies, and wild geniuses of rock when music was the center of the world.

Duncan's writing is masterful, capturing the energy and excitement of the era while also delving into the darker aspects of its excesses. He brings the characters to life with vivid detail, creating a sense of authenticity and emotion that is rare in fiction. From the charismatic singer of the rock band to the troubled editor of the punk magazine, each character is fully realized and relatable, making the reader feel as if they are part of the story.

LOUDMOUTH is not just a book about music. It is a story about the search for identity and the pursuit of freedom. Thomas Ransom is a man who has been shaped by his upbringing and the circumstances of his life. He is a complex character, torn between his love for music and his desire for a more stable and fulfilling existence. Through his journey, he learns to embrace his uniqueness and find his place in the world.

The book also explores the social and cultural implications of the rock and roll scene of the 1970s. It sheds light on the drug culture, the sexual revolution, and the political movements that were shaping the world at the time. Duncan's portrayal of the era is nuanced and thought-provoking, offering a balanced view of the good and the bad.

In addition to its literary merits, LOUDMOUTH is also a tribute to the power of music. The book is filled with vivid descriptions of music performances, album reviews, and the creative process. Duncan's love for music is evident in every page, and his writing brings the music to life in a way that is both captivating and evocative.

Overall, LOUDMOUTH is a must-read for anyone who loves music, literature, and the history of rock and roll. It is a novel that will transport you back to a time when music was the center of the world and the possibilities were endless. With its raw and honest portrayal of the era, its complex characters, and its thought-provoking exploration of identity and freedom, the book offers a unique and unforgettable experience.”

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 141 x 209 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781941110928