Fans of Jeff Buckley rejoice: the definitive biography is here. Also,
fans of Tim Buckley rejoice, as this is a triumph of a dual definitive
biography, chronicling the too-short lives and careers of father and
son. David Browne, head critic for Entertainment Weekly and sometimes
writer for Rolling Stone, has been granted unprecedented entry into the
lives of these two men, joined by blood and marked by the same fate.
Both died right when the promise seemed endless. Both died tragic
deaths. And both died far too young. This book lets the reader into all
facets of their lives: business, romance, upbringing, the best of
times, the worst of times. Unique in its layout, "Dream Brother" begins
with Jeff's death in Memphis, then switches focus every chapter from
father's rise to fame back to son's. It's an amazing read, full of
memories of those who knew each man, and the frightening similarities
and also shocking differences in their paths. Of particular enjoyment
are the minor details that fans of either may not know: an account of a
particularly amusing exchange between Tim and Jim Morrison; Jeff's time
in a hair-metal band while in Los Angeles, complete with photograph;
Tim's attempt to reconcile with Mary Guibert, Jeff's mother; Jeff's
secrecy about his father growing up, leading up to his first solo
performance as Jeffrey Scott Buckley at -- his father's tribute concert
at St. Ann's in New York. Fans will rejoice, yes, as they should. But
even non-fans or those unaware of who either man is or of their music
will find something to like in this book. It is at once a very moving,
heartbreaking, and exhilarating view into their lives.
