cover image Spider from Mars: My Life with Bowie

Spider from Mars: My Life with Bowie

Woody Woodmansey. St. Martin’s, $27.99 (320p) ISBN 978-1-250-11761-8

Woodmansey, the last surviving member of the Spiders from Mars, David Bowie’s backing band in the early 1970s, gives readers an insider’s look at Bowie. In 1970, Woodmansey left a quiet life in rural England for London to pursue his then-unheard-of dream of being a professional drummer in a rock ’n’ roll band. Although the primary focus of Woodmansey’s narrative is his time with Bowie, recording the Ziggy Stardust album as well as Hunky Dory and The Man Who Sold the World, he spends substantial time on his work with other musicians (including Art Garfunkel) and bands (such as U-Boat). Of course, most readers will come for the juicy Bowie details, and won’t be disappointed: Woodmansey has plenty of stories to tell about the band’s home in London, a Victorian house called Haddon Hall; the Triton recording studios; and Bowie’s infamous breakup with the band. Casual fans may find the telling a bit dry, but those interested in rock history won’t want to miss this slice of music history. (Jan.)