Please Kill Me: The Uncensored Oral History of Punk

by Legs McNeil and Gillian McCain
Please Kill Me: The Uncensored Oral History of Punk cover
Good Books rating 3.83
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  • ID: 9618
  • Added: 2026-01-01
  • Updated: 2026-01-01
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
The Press Music Reviews · 2025-05-05
exhaustive 4.00

The book is a comprehensive and unfiltered look at the American punk scene, capturing its raw energy and chaos. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the history of punk music.

This book is a treasure trove for punk enthusiasts. It dives deep into the early years of the American punk scene, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective. The oral history format, while unconventional, works perfectly to capture the chaotic and energetic spirit of the era. It's not just a recounting of events; it's a vivid portrayal of the people and moments that defined punk. The book's unvarnished approach makes it a compelling read, though it might be overwhelming for those not deeply interested in the genre.

Quick quotes

    The full decadent story of the American punk scene, through the early years at Andy Warhol's Factory and beyond.

    The oral history format of this book really shouldn't work - this book is literally just 400+ pages of interview segments, with no narrator.

    The book's unvarnished approach makes it a compelling read, though it might be overwhelming for those not deeply interested in the genre.

Loud Bookish Type · 2022-11-01
engaging 4.00

The oral history format is surprisingly effective, providing a unique and engaging perspective on the punk scene. The book is a rollercoaster of emotions, with moments of humor, sadness, and shock.

Reading this book feels like stepping into a time machine. The oral history format, which might seem daunting at first, actually enhances the reading experience. It's like listening to a series of interviews, each adding a new layer to the story. The book captures the punk scene in all its glory and grit, making it a rollercoaster of emotions. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll be shocked by some of the stories. It's a raw and unfiltered look at a pivotal moment in music history, and it's a must-read for anyone interested in the cultural impact of punk.

Quick quotes

    The oral history format of this book really shouldn't work - this book is literally just 400+ pages of interview segments, with no narrator.

    The book is a rollercoaster of emotions, with moments of humor, sadness, and shock.

    It's a raw and unfiltered look at a pivotal moment in music history.

The New York Times · Michiko Kakutani · 1996-08-22
compelling 3.50

The book focuses more on the personal lives and scandals of punk figures rather than the music itself. It's a compelling read but lacks depth in its musical analysis.

This book offers a fascinating glimpse into the personal lives and scandals of the punk scene. It's a compelling read, filled with juicy anecdotes and insider stories. However, it's more about the people than the music, which might disappoint those looking for a deeper analysis of punk's musical impact. The book is unapologetically gossipy, recapping all the ugly details of punk's backstage behavior. It's a wild ride, but it's not for the faint of heart. If you're interested in the cultural and personal aspects of punk, this book is a must-read. But if you're looking for a musical critique, you might want to look elsewhere.

Quick quotes

    Please Kill Me recapitulates without comment all the ugly details of punk's backstage behavior.

    It's a compelling read but lacks depth in its musical analysis.

    The book is unapologetically gossipy, recapping all the ugly details of punk's backstage behavior.

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