Just in case you thought things were getting a little straight-laced on the Arts Blog…..

Allied Artists horror, science fiction and fantasy films by Michael R. Pitts

McFarland, 2011

McFarland, 2011

If, like me, much of your youth was misspent practically soldered to the television set at all hours of the day and night then the Allied Artists oeuvre will probably be all too familiar (much to the shame of your parents, no doubt). From the 1950s through to the 70s they were responsible for a number of genre film classics, such as the original Invasion of the Body Snatchers, but their reputation during this period rests largely on less notable fare; a short synopsis of The Bride and the Beast (1958) will give you some idea! What’s not to love?

Trouble in the camera club : a photographic narrative of Toronto’s punk history 1976-1980 by Don Pyle

ECW Press 2011, 2011

Don Pyle was a music-obsessed kid with a camera when Punk Rock first reared its raucous head in the seemingly sedate environs of Toronto during the mid seventies. Throwing himself into this chaotic new sound world he saw everything, heard everything and photographed everything, from local bands to international legends such as The Ramones and Iggy Pop. It’s not pretty, but then it wasn’t trying to be!

Jack of all trades, mistress of one by Grahame Bond

NewSouth, 2011

Beauty of course is in the eye of the beholder, and I’m sure that there are lots of people who remember the overwhelming presence of Grahame Bond as Aunty Jack with great nostalgic pleasure. There are many other strings to his bow however, and this very engaging memoir takes us from his childhood in Marrickville through to his “museum piece” (his words!) latter days as something of a comedy legend.

Dark stars rising : conversations from the outer realms by Shade Rupe

Headpress, 2011

Headpress, 2011

“An untamed grab bag of gonzo weirdos in one lovingly sculpted collection. A must-have for miscreants of almost every persuasion”  (Chris Alexander, Fangoria magazine). What can I say? This remarkable collection of interviews, opinions and outrageous photographs will either confirm your penchant for bizarre entertainments, or have you reaching for a Bex and a glass of something soothing; when Divine starts looking middle-of-the-road you know that you have indeed reached the “outer realms”! Proceed with caution….

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