Do What You Fear Most – The History of the Velvet Underground – Richie Unterberger – Book Review
by Killian Laher

The Velvet Underground are one of the most influential bands of the last 60 years, often discussed and referred to by bands and journalists. This fact is made all the more surprising considering their lack of popularity for the five or six years they were active.  There have been many books written about Lou Reed and the Velvet Underground, but this hardback at over 800 pages probably tops the lot.

The author doesn’t pad the book out with extensive details on the band members’ upbringing, instead concentrating very much on the period when they created the music.  It goes into exhaustive detail on how the band got together and the lead-up to recording their first album.  The four key albums are discussed in detail, along with much of the music recorded at the time that didn’t make the cut, as well as Nico’s albums and John Cale and Reed’s early solo material.  Lou Reed’s contrariness seems to have been present right from the beginning of the band, even if former manager Paul Morrissey referred to him as ‘having no voice, no character and no personality ‘ in their very early days.

At times overwhelming, it’s a book for the Velvet Underground nerd, rather than the casual fan.  Even the title will challenge you to consider which song it refers to.  The book will certainly fill any gaps you have in your VU knowledge!