SudoSlayer
Well-known member
Evan Dando's memoir "Rumours of My Demise" is a candid account of his life, spanning from his privileged upbringing to his rise to fame with the Lemonheads. The singer-songwriter's journey is marked by an astonishing lack of self-awareness and reckless abandon, as he recounts a string of public humiliations that leave one cringing in equal parts.
Dando's addiction to heroin, cocaine, and amphetamines takes center stage, with tales of his downward spiral into chaos. He regales us with stories of collapsing on stage, getting arrested, and sabotaging his own music career – all while maintaining an air of detached nonchalance. It's clear that Dando has never been one to worry about the consequences of his actions, a trait that serves him well in his rise to fame but ultimately proves disastrous.
Despite his questionable behavior, Dando's gift for songwriting remains undeniable. His memoir is peppered with insightful observations on the music industry and the excesses of the 1990s alternative scene. However, it's hard not to feel that he's more interested in documenting his own exploits than offering a genuine reflection on his life.
Throughout the book, Dando comes across as insufferable at times, but there are moments where his wit and humor shine through. His take on his own shortcomings is refreshingly brutal: "If I could go back in time and give a bit of advice to myself, I'd say 'Evan, don't be such a dick'."
Ultimately, "Rumours of My Demise" feels like a deeply personal and unflinching account of Dando's life. While it may not be an easy read at times, it's undeniable that he has gotten away with his antics for over 40 years – a testament to his unwavering commitment to self-destruction.
Dando's addiction to heroin, cocaine, and amphetamines takes center stage, with tales of his downward spiral into chaos. He regales us with stories of collapsing on stage, getting arrested, and sabotaging his own music career – all while maintaining an air of detached nonchalance. It's clear that Dando has never been one to worry about the consequences of his actions, a trait that serves him well in his rise to fame but ultimately proves disastrous.
Despite his questionable behavior, Dando's gift for songwriting remains undeniable. His memoir is peppered with insightful observations on the music industry and the excesses of the 1990s alternative scene. However, it's hard not to feel that he's more interested in documenting his own exploits than offering a genuine reflection on his life.
Throughout the book, Dando comes across as insufferable at times, but there are moments where his wit and humor shine through. His take on his own shortcomings is refreshingly brutal: "If I could go back in time and give a bit of advice to myself, I'd say 'Evan, don't be such a dick'."
Ultimately, "Rumours of My Demise" feels like a deeply personal and unflinching account of Dando's life. While it may not be an easy read at times, it's undeniable that he has gotten away with his antics for over 40 years – a testament to his unwavering commitment to self-destruction.