That is certainly the case with veteran punk bass player George Tabb. When, as a teenager, he witnessed the legendary Ramones at the famous CBGB’s. That beautiful moment for an adolescent when they make a spiritual connection with a band. A bond that will last a lifetime.
George Tabb’s autobiographical novel Surfing Armageddon (Soft Skull Press) is by turns a hilarious and tragic account of his youth, a real rites of passage book.
As a troubled teenager, Tabb seeks comfort and solitude from Spiderman comics, The Rocky Horror Show, and his beloved Ramones. Yet, when he leaves his seclusion seeking adventure he finds the big wide world a crazy place to be.
Set against the backdrop of Florida and New York. Tabb embarks on a voyage of self-discovery,with the ultimate goal of losing his virginity.
What makes Surfing Armageddon such a joy to read, is the way the book is constantly on the move. Tabb never dwells on or offers a solution to the predicament. He just rolls with the punches, as any horny, misunderstood teenager does.
There is a genuine heartfelt account of his tragic relationship with his father. Then with a turn of a page, you will find yourself smiling as Tabb tells of how he cheats his father out of his car.
In turn, some of his experiences are frankly brutal. Such as anti-Semitism bullying at college and a savage mugging in New York. There is no mawkish self-pity. It is more of a case of "At the time it was terrible, but I can laugh about it now."
Tabb writes with emotion, honesty, and with a dark humour that will have you cringing from your own adolescent, schooldays memories. Just think back to your first life changing moment.
Matteo Sedazzari/ZANI
