Quick Take

Guy Pratt's life as bass player to the stars. The book behind the successful comedy show. Guy Pratt came of age just as playing bass became cool, with the likes of Paul Simonon and Bruce Foxton. Having dallied with Funkapolitan, Pratt suddenly found himself on Top of the Pops and supporting David Bowie with smooth Australian outfit Icehouse. At a ludicrously young age Guy Pratt became a sought after bass player to the stars, finding himself crawling from studio to bar, from hotel to stadium portacabin with Robert Palmer, Womack & Womack, Bernard Edwards, Bryan Ferry and David Crosby, etc. The eighties were in their prime, and with a number of Crolla-suited appearances in windswept videos behind him, he was invited to join Pink Floyd for a series of stadium of extravaganzas to make Bono & co look fairly modest. Pratt has recorded with Madonna, and spent time in the studio with Michael Jackson. He was in The Smiths for a week, has travelled through customs in a wheelchair after a flight with Jimmy Page, and has lived to tell all. MY BASS AND OTHER ANIMALS emerges from the successful stand-up tour of the same name. It charts his journey from a Mod band in Southend to playing with Roxy Music at Live 8.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: My Bass and Other Animals

Introduction

"My Bass and Other Animals" by Guy Pratt is a captivating autobiography that delves into the life of a renowned bass player. Pratt shares his journey from playing in a Mod band in Southend to performing with iconic artists like Pink Floyd, David Bowie, and Madonna. With its engaging stories, witty narrative, and insights into the music industry, this book has garnered rave reviews from readers who appreciate its candid and entertaining nature.

About Guy Pratt

Guy Pratt, the author of "My Bass and Other Animals," is a talented bass player who has worked with some of the most influential musicians of our time. Pratt came of age during the era when playing bass became cool, and he quickly established himself as a sought-after musician. His journey has taken him from supporting David Bowie to recording with Madonna and touring with Pink Floyd. Pratt's experiences and anecdotes provide readers with a unique perspective on the music industry and the personalities that shape it.

Analysis of Views

Engaging Storytelling: Readers praise Pratt's storytelling abilities, describing the book as a perfect summer read. The author's ability to convey his experiences through amusing, witty, and well-told stories makes the book highly enjoyable.
Focus on Humor: While some readers find the book more of a fleshed-out version of Pratt's stand-up show than a true autobiography, they still appreciate the emphasis on humor, recollections, and observations. Pratt's self-deprecating humor adds charm to the narrative, making it entertaining for readers.
Insights into Music Industry: "My Bass and Other Animals" offers readers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of music production. Pratt's association with Pink Floyd and David Gilmour provides fascinating insights into the band's history and the technical challenges of playing their songs in stadiums.
Wide Range of Musicians: The book showcases Pratt's diverse range of collaborations with various musicians. Readers appreciate the stories about Michael Jackson, Bryan Ferry, Robert Palmer, and other artists that Pratt has worked with throughout his career.
Refreshing Honesty: Pratt's candid approach to his experiences resonates with readers. He shares his struggles, triumphs, and personal observations with honesty, making the book relatable and engaging.

Reasons for Recommendation

Entertaining Narrative: "My Bass and Other Animals" offers an entertaining narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Pratt's storytelling skills and witty humor make the book a delightful read for music lovers and fans of biographies.
Insights into Music Industry: The book provides valuable insights into the music industry, offering readers a glimpse into the lives of musicians and their experiences working with different artists. Pratt's stories offer a unique perspective on the behind-the-scenes world of music production.
Wide Range of Collaborations: The diverse range of musicians that Pratt has collaborated with adds depth to the book. Readers appreciate learning about different artists and their contributions to the music industry.
Refreshing Honesty: Pratt's candid approach to sharing his experiences resonates with readers, making the book relatable and engaging. His honesty adds authenticity to the narrative, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in music biographies or the music industry as a whole.

Conclusion

"My Bass and Other Animals" by Guy Pratt is a highly recommended read for anyone interested in music biographies or the music industry of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. With its engaging storytelling, witty narrative, and insights into the lives of musicians, this book offers a unique perspective on the behind-the-scenes world of music production. Pratt's candid approach to sharing his experiences adds authenticity to the narrative, making it relatable and entertaining for readers. Whether you are a fan of Pink Floyd, David Bowie, or simply enjoy reading about music biographies, "My Bass and Other Animals" is sure to captivate you with its captivating stories and refreshing honesty.