In the 1980s, there was no mistaking the sugary pop bands and the excessive use of synthesizers that dominated the music scene. Those looking for an escape from the monotony of radio at the time had nowhere to turn for relief. Yet, beginning in 1981, a new brand of music slowly began to emerge from underground record labels all across the country. This music became known as Independent (or “Indie”) rock, and it was a welcomed by true music lovers who were tired of cookie-cutter top 40 releases. Michael Azerrad’s “Our Band Could Be Your Life,” chronicles the amazing rise of a truly groundbreaking musical genre. Each chapter of Azerrad’s book tells the story of a different Indie band’s success in breaking the musical barriers of the 80s. Beginning with Black Flag and continuing with bands such as The Replacements, Sonic Youth, Butthole Surfers and Mudhoney, Azerrad offers a really captivating look into an often ignored brand of music. Most interesting about “Our Band Could Be Your Life” is that the reader doesn’t necessarily have to enjoy every band to like the book. Each story is written more like a brief “Behind the Music” special than a typical biography. Intensive research into the pioneers of Indie rock display Azerrad’s love for the music; and for this reason, the book reads like a great novel. Realistically, “Our Band Could Be Your Life” is probably not for everyone. Those who aren’t die-hard music fans or people fascinated by the history of progressive rock most likely wouldn’t find it interesting. However, Michael Azerrad’s book is an appealing, in-depth look at a grossly understudied genre. Just released in paperback, “Our Band Could Be Your Life” is possibly one of the best books ever written about the post-punk, pre-MTV generation of independent music.