Author Brett Milano and I go back years – from when he was making his living (and his name) as a music critic for such publications as the Boston Globe and Boston Herald and we’d meet up in long-gone clubs like the Rat or TT’s. He’s since gone on to other projects, including serving as the editor of New Orleans’ Offbeat magazine and a New Orleans-related project he’ll tell you about below. The author of Vinyl Junkies and Sound of Our Town: A History of Boston Rock & Roll, Brett’s latest is Don’t All Thank Me At Once: The Lost Pop Genius of Scott Miller
How does a book start for you?
Reluctantly! But usually with my writing a section, any section, some easily accessed anecdote that would go in the middle of the book – but something that interests me enough to set down without too much effort. Once that’s down, even if it’s only 500 words, the book exists, the rest is just adding parts before and after.
Who in your latest book has surprised you most – and why?
My last book was a biography. of unsung indie rock genius, the late Scott Miller. I much admired his music and enjoyed the small interactions I had with him; but doing the book revealed some of the darker layers.
When and/or where is your latest book set and is there a story behind that setting?
I would say the setting was the indie-rock bubble of the ’80s and ’90s. A world populated by many colorful and vuivid characters, including some of my best friends.
What are you working on now?
A reference book on New Orleans music history, and a triple CD compilation of a great Boston band from the early 80s, Robin Lane & the Chartbusters.
What didn’t I ask you that I should have?
“Is she really going out with him?’
Ha! Thanks, Brett! You can read more about Brett’s various writing and music projects here: www.brettmilano.com.
Hey just wanted to say I ended up with Brett’s 2nd hand copy of the first Yes album via a Boston thrift store.
Just something fun to share that he might get a kick of learning!