Review of Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley
From the moment I stumbled upon Deep Cuts, I felt a pull as potent as a haunting melody that just won’t leave your head. As someone who often finds themselves tapping along to catchy hooks without truly diving into the deeper layers of music, I was intrigued by the book’s premise and its exploration of those often-overlooked gems—the deep cuts—of an artist’s repertoire. Holly Brickley, in her debut novel, draws us into a world defined by passion, nostalgia, and the inescapable turbulence of life.
Set against the backdrop of the gritty, vibrant New York music scene of the aughts, Deep Cuts explores the enduring bond between two characters, Joe and Percy, as they navigate the highs and lows of both their personal lives and the industry they inhabit. Brickley’s attention to detail in portraying the music culture is astonishing, even for someone like me, who doesn’t claim to be a music aficionado. Her ability to weave the lingo of the biz into the narrative made me feel like I was catching snippets of conversations from a bar after a grunge concert—gritty, real, and bursting with emotion.
The themes of friendship, love, and the sacrifices that come with pursuing one’s passion resonate throughout the pages. Joe, the self-proclaimed star, and Percy, the perceptive critic, dance around each other, embodying the complex relationship dynamics that can lead to either profound connection or heartbreaking distance. Their antics and struggles with love and ambition struck a chord in me, serving as a beautiful reminder of how messy yet meaningful relationships can be. Brickley captures their journey with lyricism that feels both raw and polished, painting an evocative portrait of their lives shaped by the music they revere.
One of the standout aspects of Deep Cuts is Brickley’s writing style. She manages to balance the fast-paced excitement of the music scene with poignant moments of introspection. While some sections may meander, echoing the rhythm of a slower ballad, they ultimately crescendo back into thrilling revelations. This ebb and flow kept me engaged, as I cheered for Joe and Percy while also reflecting on my own experiences with aspiration and heartache.
I found myself particularly drawn to the quote, “In the silence between the notes, that’s where the magic lies.” This encapsulates the essence of the book beautifully—not only within the context of music but also in life’s complicated pauses that often hold the most profound meaning. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the deep cuts are what resonate the most.
I wholeheartedly recommend Deep Cuts to anyone who has ever felt the pull of music or the weight of unfulfilled dreams. It’s a story that taps into the essence of what it means to grow, to love fiercely, and to wrestle with one’s own narrative against the backdrop of life’s unpredictable melody. Holly Brickley has crafted a remarkable debut that will surely leave you yearning for more, both in terms of her storytelling and the music we might discover along the way. Don’t forget to check out the Spotify playlist that accompanies the book—it adds yet another layer to this immersive reading experience!
In closing, if you’re looking for a heartfelt tale that beautifully encapsulates the essence of youth, love, and the indelible impact of music, Deep Cuts will satisfy that craving. It’s a delightful reminder that art, in all its forms, has the power to transform and transcend. Thank you, HarperCollins, for the review copy via #firstinbestread!