The Cure co-founder Lol Tolhurst has written a new book, GOTH: A History, which will be out September 21 in the UK and September 26 in the US. Here’s the back-of-the-book blurb:
Starting with the Origins of Goth, Tolhurst explores early art and literature that inspired the genre and looks into the work of T.S Eliot, Edgar Allan Poe, Sylvia Plath, Albert Camus and more. He also outlines the path of Gothic Forebears and shows how many musicians played in punk bands before transitioning into goth endeavors. Next, he introduces readers to the “Architects of Darkness “—Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Joy division and The Cure—the godfathers of goth who established the genre’s roots. Following these early bands, Tolhurst discusses a group he calls the ” Spiritual Alchemists “, consisting of bands like Depeche Mode, Cocteau Twins and more, who helped the darkness expand into the culture. He also tracks the expansion of the genre overseas, from England to New York, Los Angeles, and beyond. Gothic fashion was an important part of the movement as well, and Tolhurst discusses the clothing that accompanied and complemented the music. Finally, Tolhurst examines the legacy of goth music, and shows how its influence can still be seen to this day across music, film, TV, visual arts, social media, and so much more finally concluding “Why Goth matters!”
To celebrate the GOTH‘s US release, Lol will be doing book events in Brooklyn (September 26 at Powerhouse Arena) and Los Angeles (September 28 at Book Soup West Hollywood) where he’ll be in conversation and signing copies.
Lol has UK book appearances, too. Those are listed below.
Meanwhile, Lol has a new project with former Siouxsie & The Banshees drummer Budgie and Jacknife Lee.
LOL TOLHURST – 2023 BOOK EVENTS
Thursday, September 21st at 6pm
Lol Tolhurst in Conversation with Simon Price & signing at Resident Music in Brighton.
Friday, September 22nd at 7pm
Lol Tolhurst in conversation & signing at David’s Bookshop, Music & Café in Letchworth.
Saturday, September 23rd at 7pm
Lol Tolhurst in conversation with Cathi Unsworth at Rough Trade East.
Tuesday, September 26th at 7pm
Lol Tolhurst in conversation & signing at Powerhouse Arena Brooklyn.
Thursday, September 28th at 7pm
Lol Tolhurst in conversation & signing at Book Soup West Hollywood
