In an age where the youth views vintage Nirvana t-shirts as a “clothing brand” rather than a band that left a lasting mark on the world, author Robert Boyd reminds us of their greatness. Taking readers all the way through their beginning, their rise, and their lasting impact on the world, “Before the Storm” is like nothing you’ve read before.
This book is not just the story of Kurt Cobain. Of course, Kurt having been the lead in Nirvana and one of its founding members is quite prevalent throughout this read, but it’s all those around him – the drummer, radio stations, town of Alberdeen, and the nuanced facts that make this an engrossing read. With tidbits of everything scattered amongst this wholly encompassing book, Boyd has created a work of art that will last beyond the sounds of their famed, and even less so records.
Still, in 2024, Kurt Cobain and Nirvana continue to make a lasting impact. They not only remain popular and well played, but also served as a catalyst to more within the genre. With humble beginnings, touring out of personal vans, the passion, dedication, and stubbornness of Cobain and Krist Novoselic truly stood out to me. From the small town of Alberdeen, Washington Cobain and Novoselic created a lasting legacy.
Through all the money shortages, drug abuse, relationships, loss of drummers, broken equipment, near empty venues, and song writing, “Before the Storm” brings readers a young, yet talented, musician through the formation of one of America’s greatest bands. Before there was ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ there was imaginary friend ‘Boddah,’ Ritalin, Mari Earl, and a slew of band names.
Boyd details the less than idyllic years of Cobain, Nirvana, and the uprising of a new genre of music. Whether you are a fan of the band or not, “Before the Storm” is an incredible read.
For The Love Of The Page 