This Music Leaves Stains: The Complete Story Of the Misfits
By James Greene Jr.
(Scarecrow Press)

Ever heard of, want to know about, or even have a passing interest in the Misfits? Want to enjoy a brisk fun read about a seminal American rock band? Want to prove to your friends that Jersey has more to offer culturally then just Sinatra or the Sopranos? If so, I urge you to read This Music Leaves Stains: The Complete Story Of the Misfits by James Greene Jr.

This fantastically researched band bio of the seminal horror punk band from Lodi, New Jersey will tickle you in every which way. Recounting the band’s beginnings to where they are now; toughing it out through their most famous member leaving (frontman and initial architect of their sound and image Glenn Danzig); do-it-yourself EP pressings, countless touring, members coming in and out; an extensive ‘Annotated Misfits Discography 1977-2012,’; the where/why/how of the band’s infamous “Crimson Ghost” we learn how a punk band from New Jersey, bred on late night 50’s horror movie reruns, became the legends they certainly are.

This is truly an American story, that’s really what struck me most about the book. Yes, it is a wonderful rock and roll read (and under 200 pages you’re gonna get through this fast) but the Misfits are an American rock band, warts and all, as Greene himself says that they are “ a true piece of Americana, a musical roadside attraction” and I couldn’t agree more. This Music Leaves Stains: The Complete Story Of the Misfits is a must read for anybody.