Omnibus Press Presents The Story Of Fall Out Boy
by Jesse Saba

Quick, before the bottom falls out of emo

It becomes clear from the first page that Omnibus weren’t lying when they called this book unauthorised and unofficial. Saba relies solely on press cuttings for any quotes from the band, meaning that there is a slight bias toward bass player Pete Wentz, who handles most of the band’s interview duties.

Despite this the book remains upbeat, charting Fall Out Boy’s rise to fame from their humble beginnings in 2001. Back then they slept in their van the on way to gigs and released a demo. These days they can headline the seventh Honda Annual Civic Tour, and drum up all manner of anticipation for their recent album Infinity On High.

You would expect an unauthorised book to be more critical of its subject, but Saba heaps them with praise at every turn. None of the negatives are explored, and a suicide attempt by lyricist and bass player Pete Wentz is only briefly discussed. What the book lacks in detail, however, it makes up for in enthusiasm, and there are loads of pictures of the band performing, backstage and in public. If you’ve just recently discovered them and need to learn quick in these emo-frenetic days, then this is the book for you.

ISBN 9780825673375

Reviewed by Tolu Raji
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