As a self proclaimed rock historian and musician who thought he knew it all, I was pleasantly surprised to find this book at a used book store. When I saw the chapter title, "you'll never eat pussy in this town again", I knew it was for me! After reading all the criticisms of this book, I have to say, yes, he jumps around in time periods, yes, he distorts some facts, and yes, he covers a lot of territory, but the overall purpose of the book is to capture the Laurel Canyon scene. Being 46, I know all the artists discussed and their music, but I didn't see the big picture of the scene, like for instance, where the artists came from, how they all hooked up with their groups and of course, didn't know all the tales of debauchery and sexual conquest. I would have liked more info on the making of the music--interviews with recording engineers, producers, hired studio pro's, etc. Having many friends in the business who think they can handle the crazy lifestyle and drugs (yes, they are still around and more prevalent than our society likes to admit), they may find a copy of this book in their mailbox! If you are young (40 or below), you probably will give this book a thumbs down because lets face it, you may not respect, like, or even know these artists. If you grew up with these artists, this book will be highly enjoyable and an easy read. I am a big fan of all the artists discussed so, I was in RnR heaven. Many have bagged on BH's writing style, but I found it easy to read, insightful and charming. I plan on reading Waiting For the Sun and maybe the book on The Band. Go Barney!!Get more detail about Hotel California: The True-Life Adventures of Crosby, Stills, Nash, Young, Mitchell, Taylor, Browne, Ronstadt, Geffen, the Eagles, and Their Many Friends.
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