924 Gilman

Known to most only as the place where punk rock legends Green Day, Operation Ivy, and Rancid were spawned, and home of the ‘East Bay’ sound, there’s actually alot more that’s impressive about Gilman Street. What you get here, in words, and over 200 photographs, is a thorough historical account of the first 17 years of the all-ages, volunteer-run punk club in Berkeley, CA, as recounted by those that actually worked there, went there, and occasionally played there. Some of the names you may know – some of them are (in)famous scenesters, zinesters and play(ed) in bands too – most of them you won’t. Which is, of course, what makes the project, and this documentation, so incredible. Heartfelt and inspiring, these stories, anecdotes, complaints, exultations, analyses, and reminisces truly capture the huge impact the club has had on the lives of those who’ve been involved there. In the words of the books editor “it’s not your age or experience that matters most, it’s your dedication and enthusiasm.”