Book: Magazine. The Biography by Helen Chase

Well, this is welcome relief after reading the previous tome.

First things first, I have never knowingly heard any music from Magazine. They were originally around a few years before my musical awakening, although undoubtedly I will have heard them played by John Peel.

I made it a point not to listen to any of their music before completing this insightful book. I imagine Magazine fans will enjoy seeing someone learn about this influential band for the first time. Described as a post-punk band, I’d say they were deeply rooted in punk but did not fully embrace the punk aesthetic. I loved reading about people chasing the Sex Pistols around the country during their 5 minutes of notoriety.

There are many connections to bands I know, first and foremost Siouxsie and Ultravox, as well as The Buzzcocks. Colin Thurston, who produced two of my favourites—Duran Duran and Talk Talk—also comes into play here, although it's likely his work with Bowie that secured him the Duran Duran gig.

While I had heard the title ‘Shot from Both Sides’, I love the unfamiliar album title 'The Correct Use Of Soap’; apt for more recent times.

What I love most about music biographies is learning about the songwriting process, which is explored in this book. Like many bands with a chief songwriter — in this case, the enigmatic frontman, Howard Devoto — there is a tug of war among the band members, as they feel they also contribute to the creative process. Unless you are a multi-instrumentalist like Prince, this conflict is bound to occur.

Magazine experienced several lineup changes and periods of inactivity, which adds depth to the story of the various members. I like the idea of referring to them as "pages," which evokes a more artistic image than anything weapon-related. It's wonderful to see new musicians stepping into the band, inspired by those who came before them. Additionally, there are perspectives from people who weren't familiar with the band initially but have nonetheless been influenced by Magazine.

Throughout this short book, the author’s descriptive writing skills are so vivid that I felt as if I were in the room, experiencing the adrenaline, creativity, and the sweat that dripped down the walls. It was like watching a gritty, monochrome drama with a side of wit that had much to teach me.

My thanks to McNidder & Grace for sending me a complimentary copy.

May 2025