Rip it Up and Start Again: Postpunk 1978-1984

Simon Reynolds recreates a time of urgency and idealism in post-punk music in his book, Rip It Up And Start Again, featuring Joy Division, The Fall, Pere Ubu, PiL, and Talking Heads. It is considered one of the most inspired and inspiring books on popular music ever written.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 608 pages
Publication date: 07 February 2019
Publisher: Faber & Faber

A fresh addition to the prestigious Faber Greatest Hits series, which has pushed the boundaries of music writing in the twenty-first century. In this groundbreaking work, acclaimed author and music journalist Simon Reynolds delves into the comprehensive realm of post-punk, offering a captivating portrayal of a time characterized by immense urgency and unwavering idealism in the world of pop music. Laden with anecdotes and insightful perspectives, Rip It Up And Start Again stands as a truly inspiring and visionary masterpiece, revered as one of the most exceptional and influential books on popular music ever penned.

The post-punk era, spanning from the late 1970s to the early 1980s, was a transformative period in the history of popular music. It was a time when artists pushed the boundaries of traditional rock and roll, experimenting with new sounds, styles, and attitudes. One of the most notable figures in this movement was Simon Reynolds, a renowned author and music journalist who has written extensively about the genre. In his book, Rip It Up And Start Again, Reynolds takes a comprehensive look at the post-punk period, exploring its origins, influences, and the impact it had on the music industry.

One of the key themes of Rip It Up And Start Again is the sense of urgency that characterized the post-punk movement. Artists in this era were driven by a desire to challenge the status quo and break free from the constraints of mainstream music. They were inspired by a range of political, social, and cultural factors, including the rise of Thatcherism, the decline of traditional industries, and the emergence of new technologies. This urgency is reflected in the music itself, which is characterized by its raw, energetic, and often experimental nature.

Another notable aspect of post-punk is its idealism. Artists in this era were deeply committed to social and political issues, and their music often reflected their beliefs and values. This idealism is evident in the lyrics of many post-punk songs, which often deal with themes of resistance, rebellion, and social justice. For example, Joy Division's iconic song "Love Will Tear Us Apart" is a powerful expression of the emotional turmoil and social isolation experienced by many young people during the post-punk era.

Rip It Up And Start Again features a wide range of artists and bands who were influential in the post-punk movement. These include Joy Division, The Fall, Pere Ubu, PiL, and Talking Heads, among many others. Reynolds provides detailed accounts of these artists' backgrounds, influences, and the impact they had on the genre. He also offers insights into the creative processes behind their music, and the challenges they faced in the process.

In conclusion, Rip It Up And Start Again is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of popular music. It offers a comprehensive and insightful portrayal of the post-punk period, exploring its origins, influences, and the impact it had on the music industry. Simon Reynolds' writing is engaging, informative, and packed with anecdotes and insights, making it a pleasure to read from start to finish.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 198 x 130 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571349678
Edition number: Main - Faber Greatest Hits