The Evolution of a Cro-Magnon by John Joseph
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Book Reviews of The Evolution of a Cro-Magnon
Book Review: Excellent Book
Summary: 5 Stars
I picked up this book because I've been a Cro-Mags fan for a while and always found them somewhat fascinating, the exteremely influential New York hardcore band associated just as much with violence and agression as with Hare Krishna philosophies. Admittedly, when I got the book and saw how big it was, I found myself a little intimidated; John Joseph could definitely sing and write lyrics, but I had no idea if he could write an interesting four-hundred-plus page book.
What I found was that John could definitely write, and pretty damn well. The book starts out with a fast pace, which continues straight through to the end, and really just gets better and better as the story unravels. John writes about his childhood, homeless living on the streets, his time in the Navy, time with the Hare Krishnas, and naturally, the Cro-Mags. I would agree with the review above that the Cro-Mags section of the story isn't even the most interesting of the many stories in this book.
Between anecdotes, John talks about his spirituality and beliefs regarding religion, the after-life, and life philosophies. These sections blend very easily with the episodic moments in the book and with the longer stories. His outlook and message are very positive, and I would recommend this book to just about anybody, not just hardcore or Cro-Mags fans.
Book Review: The Evolution of a Revolution
Summary: 5 Stars
Living in Alphabet City in the early 1980s, I remember the energy and brutality of a Cro-Mags' concert. I continue to go to shows as I grow older, but every band I see pales in comparison. However, reading this book brought back all the emotion and excitement of a 1980s hardcore show. To say I was hanging on Joseph's every word doesn't do the book justice - I was glued to every page.
Yeah, the man is a musician, but don't let that fool you. John Joseph is an incredible storyteller with the unique ability to take you along for the ride. For those of you who grew up in NYC in the 1980s, Joseph's incredibly detailed stories will bring you back twenty years. And for anyone else, this book is like a summer abroad in Manhattan before it became Disney World.
Still, the most amazing part of the book is John's life. For a person with such a tough image, it's admirable that he gives you such exclusive access to a life full of highs, lows, and everything in between. Yeah, this book isn't likely to get into Oprah's Book Club, but it's the kind of story that everyone can relate to in one way or another. An absolute must-read.
Book Review: Everyone needs to read this book!!!!!
Summary: 5 Stars
I must agree with all the positive reviews of this book. I admit I wasn't sure what to expect. I was familiar with the Cro-Mags mostly through them being mentioned with Agnostic Front as NYHC. Great bands along with Sick of it All, Murphy's Law, and Bad Brains, but writing a book is much different than hardcore punk. Thankfully John succeeds on both fronts. The book was well written, engrossing, humorous, heartbreaking, and always entertaing. Everyone can learn from John's lessons. Keep an open mind and listen. Give Thanks and Praises!Book Review: Great book!
Summary: 5 Stars
This book was like a reality check. What ever your story, you can get what ever you want in life. John opens up to abuse as a child to manhood and a few "woops" on the way. He always finds a way to rise to the top of his game in life. Cro-Mag fan's will love the inside dirt and new ones to the "Cro's" or to John Joseph will find a wonderful story of the trials and tribulations that made J.J. who he is today.
Book Review: this guy is an inspiration
Summary: 5 Stars
You will never be same after getting to know John Joseph's life story. It blows my mind that someone who saw so much poverty, violence and suffering ended up being such a productive and compassionate member of society. Joseph describes the old New York City of the 70s and 80s so vividly and hilariously, I felt like I'd seen it myself. This guy is more than just a talented musician, his writing is killer.