Mutations: The Many Strange Faces of Hardcore Punk Paperback – February 11, 2020

If this book has piqued your interest it is probably because, like me, you have already cut your teeth on a few of the punk/hardcore memoirs that have been written in the past few years. For the uninitiated, most of these books could be pretty digestible. Mutations stands alone in that it unapologetically avoids any explanatory references to bands, scenes, zines, people, labels, or clubs. This is not a you-had-to-be-there cup of bleary-eyed nostalgia; Instead, it is a piece written for those already in the know; Those already aware of Tim Yohannan and ABC No Rio and the infamous Born Against/Sick of it All interview. If you can count yourself among the well-versed in alterna-alternaculture from the 1980's and 1990's, this book will engage you. Sam's writing is poignant, academic and to a point, charmingly self-deprecating. Personally, I was thrilled to learn that he emerged from my adopted region of New York's Capital District, so the local references offer a more personal experience for me.

I was only familiar with Sam from his nineties band Born Against. I bought this book after hearing him interviewed on Jughead’s Basement podcast. Interesting and enjoyable read regarding an array of hardcore punk bands/subjects coming from a nineties perspective. Sam was very involved with the scene back then thru zines, bands, and a label. I dug this book and would recommend it. Thanks.

I love this book. I've met and talked to (and played shows with) Sam many times throughout the years, and he's always been an interesting character. He can be serious and hilarious all at the same time. So many great stories, and plenty of depressing and sobering stories as well. I'm not big on reading books, but this on was top notch! If I taught a literature class I'd use this book. (My wife teaches literature but I've been unable to convince her to use it as a textbook.)

I don't personally know Sam McPheeters. For those who do, it's a mixed bag of reactions. But the guy can write. And I found this collection of essays which center or veer from 80's-90's hardcore punk to be really, really good.

It's a book. By Sam McPheeters. It's exactly what it's supposed to be. Snarky and clever, a bit self deprecating, and full of great history and observations on hardcore from as unique a voice and perspective as you can get.

If you're familiar with Sam's other books or his music you'll likely find this hard to put down. Sam has a way of writing that feels completely economical. Not a single word feels wasted. Every detail seems pertinent. This is not to say the writing is clinical or humorless, quite the opposite. It's simply that Sam has mastered his craft. Mutations is a rich and rewarding peek into Sam's experience with the world of music.

Awesome book! If someone could hyperlink the footnotes for the ebook then its be a more pleasurable reading experience. I just read all the footnotes at the end and mostly could remember the context but it'd be easier if you could jump back and forth like in Paul Hanley's books which are also heavily annotated

Sam is a captain of the punk industry.He is not afraid to torch his contributions to punk. He admits his foibles and failures.Still, his impressive work is why this book exists and why the punks want to read this.I took Tobi Vail’s advice and read - and enjoyed - the endnotes first.

Well written with unique, varied and insightful chapters. Honest account of the ups and downs of life inside the head of someone consumed by punk. Anyone who is has been there can relate to a lot of what the author talks to. The self awareness is refreshing. Loved the chapter on the 'Christmas Folks'. If you have any interest in punk/hardcore particularly from North America, get yourself a copy.

Beautifully written, consistently interesting, a must for music fans and purveyors of blindingly original thought.