Iggy Pop: Open Up & Bleed
by Paul Trynka

Finally, the real story of Iggy Pop and James Osterberg

There have been many books about Iggy Pop, but Paul Trynka’s painstaking account of the life of rock’n’roll’s most iconic frontman is the definitive dog’s bollocks, with the James Osterberg seal of approval. No stone is left unturned in Iggy’s turbulent tale of drugs, self-abuse, mental tussles and his relationship with David Bowie (who, sadly, declined to contribute to a story in which he emerges as the caring hero). Trynka interviewed over 250 friends, musicians and family members, and there are exhaustive footnotes and discographical details.

Two main characters emerge: the charming, articulate Jim Osterberg, who once considered himself Congress material; and Iggy Pop, the rampant self-harming madman who set the benchmark for extreme behaviour. The parallels with his hero, Jim Morrison, are striking, and his mid-70s attempt to form a group with Ray Manzarek provides one of many fascinating sections. Devotees of graphically relayed excess won’t be disappointed, but neither will those interested in about the heart that beats beneath the bleeding chest and the brain behind the broken teeth

5 stars 5 stars 5 stars 5 stars 5 stars

ISBN 9781847440185

Reviewed by Kris Needs
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