“The Number One bestselling novel by the author of CLOUD ATLAS, ‘one of the most brilliantly inventive writers of this, or any country'”
NO MAJOR SPOILERS
Just finished Utopia Avenue by David Mitchell. This novel is the story of a little known British psychedelic rock band from the late 60’s. There are 4 members, Dean the Bass Player, Griff the drummer, Jasper, the dynamic lead guitarist and Elf, the only female in the group who is on keyboards. They are brought together by a small time manager wannabe who has seen the four play in other bands and decides to bring them together. The story then tells of the rise of the band through its many turbulent times, including health issues, financial issues and all the other demands made upon a band trying to break through into the charts.
The author has done his homework, weaving into the story real characters that are portrayed true to form. The music mentioned is all correct to the time events that are occurring, and the story gives a very good insight on what it could have been like to be in an aspiring band at this time.
