Neil McCormick

This book was a hoot. Neil McCormick captures the Dublin music scene as punk took hold, and young men formed bands in search of fame, money and sex. The trials and tribulations faced by McCormick and his cohorts are contrasted against the rise of U2. Although there is a sense of McCormick wondering why it wasn't his band that rose to the top, his story is not really one of envy, but rather a picture in time told with grace and humor.

Apparently, Neil McCormick has the worst luck of any human being ever (or else the music business really is that cruel). Luckily, he has a sense of humor about it, and this book, which is more about McCormick's attempts to "make it" than the band that did, is incredibly witty and, when necessary, self-effacing. When the subject does turn to U2, McCormick presents a unique and balanced view of them--appreciative but not worshipful, and willing to recognize their flaws as you would a friend's. show more Which, appropriately, he is. show less

"Some are born great
Some achieve greatness
Some have greatness thrust upon them
And some have the misfortune
to go to school with Bono"

This tagline says it all really EXCEPT Neil McCormick sells himself short. As someone who has revered Bono for more than 25 years. I don't feel pretentious to say I ADORE this book (even though your jealousy stands proud it is absolutely understandable! *lolol*).

Read it - you know you should.

This book was a very entertaining read, and I found it very easy to stay interested. Also a must-read for any rock fan.