Rip It Up and Start Again: Postpunk 1978-1984

by Simon Reynolds
Rip It Up and Start Again: Postpunk 1978-1984 cover
Good Books rating 4.0
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 9625
  • Added: 2026-01-01
  • Updated: 2026-01-01
  • ISBN: 9780571252275
  • Publisher: Faber & Faber
  • Published: 2009-04-02
  • Reviews: 3

Rip It Up and Start Again is a celebration of the post-punk movement that emerged after the initial punk rock wave. This period, from 1978 to 1984, saw an unprecedented burst of musical innovation and social commentary, rivaling the creative output of the 1960s. The book is packed with anecdotes, insights, and profiles of the charismatic and maverick artists who defined this era. /n/n Author Simon Reynolds, known for his acclaimed work Energy Flash, captures the urgency and idealism of the time, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of music, politics, and culture. It stands as one of the most inspired and inspiring books on popular music ever written, offering a deep dive into a transformative period in musical history.

Reviews
Read Write Respond · 2025-01-14
comprehensive 4.00

The term 'postpunk' is elusive, and the author's journey to define it was challenging. The book offers a comprehensive look at the era's music, highlighting its diversity and impact.

The reviewer notes that 'postpunk' is a tricky term to pin down, and the author's exploration of it reflects that complexity. They appreciate the book's thorough examination of the genre, which includes a wide range of related styles from the late 70s and early 80s. The reviewer also points out that the book's strength lies in its ability to capture the spirit of the time, even if the narrative is somewhat fragmented. They found the encyclopedic approach engaging and informative, providing a rich tapestry of the post-punk era.

Quick quotes

    "Postpunk" proves to be a slippery label.

    The book offers a comprehensive look at the era's music, highlighting its diversity and impact.

    Reynolds presents an unapologetically loving depiction of the era.

Rip It Up Footnotes · 2018-06-22
encyclopedic 4.50

The book takes an encyclopedic approach to post-punk and related genres, offering a detailed and engaging look at the music of the late 70s and early 80s. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the research and the insights provided.

The reviewer highlights the book's encyclopedic approach to post-punk and related genres, which they find both detailed and engaging. They appreciate the depth of the research and the insights provided into the music and culture of the time. The reviewer notes that the book's strength lies in its ability to capture the diversity and innovation of the era. They also mention that the book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of post-punk, providing a comprehensive overview of the genre's various offshoots and influences. Overall, they find it a highly informative and enjoyable read.

Quick quotes

    Rip It Up and Start Again takes an encyclopaedic look at post-punk and every tangentially-related genre of the late 70s and early 80s.

    The book offers a detailed and engaging look at the music of the late 70s and early 80s.

    The reviewer appreciates the depth of the research and the insights provided.

The New York Times · STEPHANIE B. COLEMAN · 2006-03-05
valuable 3.50

The narrative of post-punk's aftermath is disjointed, lacking a clear beginning, middle, or end. Despite this, the book provides a valuable exploration of the genre's evolution.

The reviewer finds the story of post-punk's aftermath to be fragmented, with no clear narrative structure. They note that the book's exploration of the genre's evolution is valuable, but the lack of a cohesive story makes it a bit challenging to follow. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the research and the insights into the music and culture of the time. They also mention that the book's strength lies in its detailed examination of the genre's various offshoots and influences. Overall, they find it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the history of post-punk.

Quick quotes

    The story of punk's aftermath is more fragmented, with no clear beginning, a mixed-up middle and a whimper of an ending.

    Reynolds, who was a teenager at the height of postpunk, presents an unapologetically loving depiction of the era.

    As I read, I revisited some of the most exciting and innovative music of my youth.

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