Bam (Dan Epstein)

Poptastic! Hot on the heels of the Live At Budokan reissue comes this, the first-ever biography of Cheap Trick. A 'fans-only' proposition of the best sort, there's no Hammer of the Gods-type tales of debauchery to hold the attention of the uninitiated. Reputation will have die-hard Trick fans drooling over the thorough discography, the many previously unpublished photos (if you think Rick Nielsen looks like a geek now, you should see him in white flares and a peasant shirt!), and the compendium of concert set-lists since 1973. Like the band's records, Reputation becomes rough going by the mid-'80s, but the book is invaluable for the wealth of light it sheds on the band's origins and early days. Not currently available in stores, Reputation is available for $25 postpaid (check or money order only) from Poptastic!, Box 1249, Willow Grove, PA 19090; or email sharpk@aol.com, phone: (610) 446 -0620, x3002.