Thoughts Words Action reviews new Engineer Records book - Djordje Miladinovic at Thoughts Words Action Punk Rock Blog has been reading ‘The Fire Still Burns: Music Inspired By The Post-Punk Message’, the brand new book all about Engineer Records, the road trips, experiences and inspirations of its bands.
Written by Engineer Records head honcho David Gamage, with over 700 pages of anecdotes and images, TWA has now published their review, saying that the book is “an astounding, heartfelt ode to the resilience, creativity, and power of the DIY punk rock scene” that “dives deep into the gritty mechanics of punk’s independent spirit, charting the highs and lows of life on the road, running a record label, and surviving in a scene that thrives on its own unpredictability” and is written "with the reverence of a fan and the insight of a collaborator."
You can read the full review here: https://thoughtswordsaction.com/2024/12/16/the-fire-still-burns-music-inspired-by-the-post-punk-message-by-david-gamage-earth-island-books/
Or pick up a copy of the book here: https://www.earthislandbooks.com/product-page/the-fire-still-burns-music-inspired-by-the-post-punk-message-by-david-gamage
"David Gamage’s The Fire Still Burns is an astounding, heartfelt ode to the resilience, creativity, and power of the DIY punk rock scene. Released under his Earth Island Books imprint, this sprawling, 726-page chronicle dives deep into the gritty mechanics of punk’s independent spirit, charting the highs and lows of life on the road, running a record label, and surviving in a scene that thrives on its own unpredictability. Packed with anecdotes, vivid storytelling, and a stunning array of full-colour photographs, fliers, and album covers, Gamage’s latest offering is an essential read for anyone who has ever felt the irresistible pull of a power chord or the companionship of a sweaty, impromptu gig.”
“Following on from A Hardcore Heart, Gamage’s previous dive into punk’s beating soul, The Fire Still Burns amplifies its scope and stakes. This isn’t just Gamage’s personal memoir, it’s a panoramic view of punk’s modern DIY landscape, enriched by contributions from over eighty bands associated with his label, Engineer Records. From the anthemic cries of Barking Poets to the introspective echoes of Palm Ghosts, the book offers a layered, multidimensional perspective on what keeps punk alive in the face of changing cultural tides and personal challenges. Gamage’s writing is as raw and energetic as the music he champions. With wit and unwavering sincerity, he takes readers on a thrilling voyage that feels like an extended road trip with your favourite band, chaotic, hilarious, and profoundly moving. Whether he’s recounting disastrous van breakdowns, electric moments on stage, or the deep satisfaction of seeing an independent record resonate with an audience, his prose crackles with life.
A burning question drive lies in the heart of the book: What keeps these bands going?
In an era dominated by algorithmic playlists and disposable pop hits, Gamage celebrates the ongoing passion of artists who pour their souls into music for the love of it.
These are stories of people who sacrifice comfort and stability to chase moments of transcendence, whether on stage, in a studio, or in a packed, dimly lit venue.
Through his lens, Gamage reveals that punk is not just a genre, it’s a way of life.
The book brims with stories of connection and community, showing how the punk scene provides an outlet for connection and creative expression. In Gamage’s world, punk is a sanctuary for those who refuse to compromise their individuality or passion, even when the world seems indifferent. Much of the narrative revolves around Engineer Records, the independent label Gamage helped build from the ground up. The book doubles as a love letter to the artists who have called the label home, including Abermals, Neckscars, The Jukebox Romantics, and countless others. Gamage’s respect for these bands is noticeable, he writes about them with the reverence of a fan and the insight of a collaborator.”
"Through their stories, we glimpse the unglamorous yet profoundly rewarding work of keeping a DIY label alive, late nights assembling LPs and CDs, the constant hustle of promotion, and the deep satisfaction of watching a record find its audience. It’s a labour of love that demands relentless dedication, and Gamage captures this spirit with wit and humility. One of the standout features is its visual presentation. Loaded with photos, fliers, album artwork, and other memorabilia, The Fire Still Burns is as much a visual document as it is a written one. These artifacts don’t just illustrate the book, they enhance its storytelling, giving readers a tactile sense of the scene’s vibrant history. You can almost feel the grit of the photocopied gig posters or the weight of a vinyl record in your hands.
Gamage is joined by a chorus of voices from across the punk and hardcore spectrum, lending the book a depth and authenticity that few music memoirs achieve. Ian Glasper’s foreword sets the tone perfectly, capturing the spirit of the punk ethos while framing Gamage’s story within the broader context of the scene’s history. Contributions from bands and collaborators enrich the narrative, offering diverse perspectives on what it means to be a part of this world. David writes with a sharp wit and unflinching honesty, never shying away from the hardships of the lifestyle he’s chosen. Yet, even when recounting moments of doubt or struggle, his tone remains hopeful, almost defiant. He understands that punk is about more than music, it’s about strength, creativity, and community. His anecdotes, whether they involve a catastrophic tour mishap or an unforgettable gig in a tiny dive bar, are told with a storyteller’s flair, balancing satire with heartfelt sincerity. By the time you finish the book, you feel as though you’ve shared a pint with Gamage at a sticky bar table, swapping stories about the shows that changed your life.”
“For anyone considering starting a band, launching a label, or diving headfirst into the DIY music scene, The Fire Still Burns is an inspiration and a roadmap. Gamage doesn’t sugar-coat the challenges, but his love for the scene is so infectious that it’s impossible not to feel motivated. The book is a reminder that punk isn’t about fame or fortune, it’s about finding meaning in the act of creation and connection. Gamage has crafted a work that feels so alive, pulsating with the same energy and passion that defines the music it honours, so his book offers an intimate, exhilarating glimpse into a world fuelled by unrelenting passion and creativity. Gamage’s story is a vital reminder of the connection between musicians and the endurance of the punk rock scene. It’s a fire that refuses to go out, and thanks to Gamage’s efforts, it burns brighter than ever.
If you’ve ever stood in a sweaty crowd, shouting along to a song that felt like it was written just for you, The Fire Still Burns will resonate deeply. It celebrates all the bands, fans, and dreamers who keep the scene alive, proving that punk’s heart is still beating strong.
Head to Earth Island Books for more information about ordering.”
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