Simon Reynolds' 'Rip It Up and Start Again' Chronicles Post-Punk's Radical Creativity
Simon Reynolds, who previously wrote for Melody Maker and now contributes to The New York Times, The Guardian, and Rolling Stone, penned 'Rip It Up and Start Again', which examines the post-punk movement from 1978 to 1984. The text posits that this era was marked by significant experimentation, following the decline of punk in the summer of 1977. Notable bands discussed include PiL, Devo, Joy Division, Talking Heads, Gang of Four, and Wire. Drawing from more than 125 interviews, the book explores both British and American scenes, emphasizing radical innovators and 'New Pop'. It showcases cult figures and cultural advocates, presented in an illustrated and engaging format, offering a comprehensive overview of this creatively vibrant time.
Key facts
- Simon Reynolds is author of 'Rip It Up and Start Again'.
- The book covers post-punk from 1978 to 1984.
- Post-punk began after the Sex Pistols' breakup and ended with MTV's start.
- Key bands include PiL, Devo, Joy Division, Talking Heads, Gang of Four, and Wire.
- The movement was influenced by Dada, William S. Burroughs, J.G. Ballard, and Philip K. Dick.
- Graphic designers Malcolm Garrett and Peter Saville worked for Factory Records.
- The book is based on over 125 interviews.
- Reynolds focuses on cult acts rather than commercially successful ones.
Entities
Artists
- Simon Reynolds
- Orange Juice
- PiL
- Devo
- Joy Division
- Talking Heads
- Gang of Four
- Wire
- Cabaret Voltaire
- Pere Ubu
- Alfred Jarry
- Hugo Ball
- William S. Burroughs
- J.G. Ballard
- Philip K. Dick
- Malcolm Garrett
- Peter Saville
- John Heartfield
- Brian Eno
- Buzzcocks
- the Slits
- Scritti Politti
- New Order
- Depeche Mode
- The Cure
- U2
- Human League
- Björk
- Beastie Boys
- Radiohead
- Red Hot Chili Peppers
- Nine Inch Nails
Institutions
- Melody Maker
- The New York Times
- The Guardian
- Rolling Stone Magazine
- Factory Records
- artpress
Locations
- Sheffield
- Manchester
- New York
- United Kingdom
- United States
Sources
- artpress —