Sam Avery: Rock and Dole

• Henry Northmore
• 10 August 2014

This article is from 2014

Absorbing autobiographical and hilarious insight into hidden world of rock'n'roll

Dispatches from the frontline of rock'n'roll. At the age of 15 Sam Avery and three of his pals formed a band. After mulling over some frankly ridiculous ideas they finally called themselves dHb (far better than one early suggestion: 'Techno Pussy Sandwich').

Unlike so many teenage metal outfits they got signed. With just David Lee Roth's biography, a love of grunge, metal and hardcore punk to guide them they set out across Europe with Napalm Death then toured the UK with Motörhead, four innocent kids adrift in the world of rock.

An autobiographical account of teenage dreams and getting one brief glimpse behind the velvet curtain. Obviously dHb aren't exactly a household name but they touched glory. Avery may have come out the other side without fame or fortune but what he does have is one hell of a tale to tell as he guides you through the ups and downs of the music industry. A gifted storyteller, his laidback demeanour and enthusiasm, coupled with an honesty about their naivety and stupidity, make it even more relatable. Avery is equally comfortable laughing at their failings as celebrating their successes. An absorbing, very funny, true story offering an insight into a hidden world.

Just the Tonic at The Caves, 556 5375, until 24 Aug (not 12), 5.20pm, £6--£8.