Squeeze: Song By Song

by Chris Difford

One of the finest bands of the British New Wave, Squeeze shot to the top of the charts in the 1980s with a string of hits including "Cool for Cats," "Up the Junction," "Another Nail in My Heart," and "Tempted." In this definitive account, Glen Tilbrook and Chris Difford, the band's creative heart, discuss Squeeze's history, their distinctive sound, and the creative process behind their catchy melodies and provocative, emotional lyrics. The book also includes lyric sheets and a detailed discography.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction

Paperback

Published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's comforting to know that, regardless of how obsessive you are about your favorite bands, there are people out there that will make you look like a rank amateur, and sometimes they write books.

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very open and honest history of the band told in a very unique fashion. The author sits down and asks questions of Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook about all the songs on each of their studio albums. Interlaced with the interviews is a bit of history about how they came to be and all that went on between each album. The change of personnel was fascinating, as sometimes they were just looking for an "upgrade" (which must be a wonderful feeling to the axed musician) and other times they just get fed up with being in the band. And other times it's never clear who made the decision, as with longtime drummer Gilson Lavis

But the book is really about the relationship of the two mainstays: Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook. Until I read this book, I had no idea that Difford only wrote the lyrics while Tilbrook wrote the music. To me, writing lyrics just doesn't seem to put you on equal ground. Plus, Tilbrook is a much better musician AND definitely the much better singer. But there's certainly something to be said about Squeeze's lyrics, which are always a treat, even when you don't know what they mean. Many of their early (and late period) lyrics were not written with the United States in mind, so there are plenty of locales, etc. that are uniquely British.

During most of the book, I can't say I was too sympathetic to the plight of Difford, who was a bit of a mess, going into rehab more than once with different issues. Twice he canceled touring at the last minute but wanted a share of the money. It was these types of shenanigans that ultimately deep-sixed the band, but I applaud Difford for being very honest about his issues. I recently heard an interview with him and he seems to have his act together. And Tilbrook certainly had his issues, especially with relationships. For instance, we learn his wife took the kids and moved to Australia, but what exactly caused such a drastic move? I would have liked to learn more on this.

The most fascinating thing to me was hearing their opinions of their own songs. Interesting when Difford calls Domino's 2nd track, "Bonkers", rubbish or refers to others as filler. I was pleased that they were very pleased with the outcome of the album "Frank", as I think it's underrated. They are spot on about their opinion of the "Frank" tour, which turned out to be a disaster opening for Fleetwood Mac. I was there. Not a good experience.

All and all a great read. I am going to hold onto it and revisit the songs and read some of their comments again. Should have been doing that all along!

[William Adam Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was quite surprised when I stumbled across this book on Amazon. Being a self=proclaimed die hard Squeeze fan, I quickly snatched it up. First of all, it is a very easy read, you will not feel encumbered at any point to stick with it. This is my favorite band, and if you've never heard of them, the good thing is that it is never too late to find out about them. Playing their songs (albums tracks are almost as good as the hits) on Spotify for 25 minutes will tell you what you need to know.

I loved the accounts of the early days of Squeeze, how they managed to come together and had a great time simply playing their music. Chris is quite forthcoming in the way that he describes the impact that alcohol had on his life and how it lead to a certain amount of alienation between Glenn and himself. Chris and Glenn admit the trouble that they had communicating with each other, which one might not expect since they had spent so much time together in their life. This book covers the highs from "Cool for Cats" to the lows of being ignored in the publicity department on their later albums.

I agree with others who have said it would have been nice to have some insight from other band members- Jools Holland, Paul Carrack, or Gilson Lavis- to get a fuller picture of the band.

This book is a welcome gift for those who have enjoyed Squeeze's wonderful music over the years. A nice portrait for those to reminisce over the music that has brought much joy to our hearts.

[Gayle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating insight from the main duo at the heart of the British band. Would be great to have an updated version covering the songs from the last two studio albums.

[John Errington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love to read what the writers think about their own songs. Despite some of the older lyrics being questionable, this is still a great read.

[Andy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good insight into challenges of a writing relationship but bit same as go from album to album

[Ross Whamond · Rating 4 out of 5]

really interesting read,with tons of of info.Really captures the time.

[Sherry Chiger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Given the topsy-turvy fortunes of this underappreciated band, it was a surprise to come across a book devoted to the backstory and recording of every Squeeze song. But while the book, which presents Chris Difford's and Glenn Tilbrook's memories and opinions on every song they wrote together, will no doubt please Squeeze fans (such as me), any aficionado of Britpop, pop or rock music, or songwriting in general will appreciate this book. It describes the nuances of the writing process, unlikely sources of inspiration, and happy accidents of the production process. It also shows why partnerships between two equally talented, complementary yet contradictory personalities rarely survive the long term. One quibble: While every Squeeze song is discussed, the lyrics for some of the songs are missing. If you're hoping to read the correct lyrics to "Annie Get Your Gun," for instance, you're out of luck.

[Mike · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good book for fans of the Squeeze. More info on the songs and the songwriting.