The Sweaty Nights and Ringing Ears of the ‘90s Rock Scene in Photographs
Bootsy Holler’s new book “MAKiNG iT” shows it all.
It’s the ’90s, the punk rock scene is thriving and everybody wants to “make it.” While many of us may not have been alive to experience the heyday, it’s something we’ve witnessed on the silver screen and probably felt the itch to be a part of. Now, Los Angeles photographer Bootsy Holler is bringing it into print with her latest book, “MAKiNG iT.”
Documenting the Seattle indie, punk and rock scenes from 1992 to 2008, the photographic time capsule shows us every angle. Focusing on the lesser-known bands who later defined a decade in music history, we witness the world transition from celluloid to digital and grunge to indie.
Holler captured live gigs, band portraits, the messy crowds and intimate backstage moments of artists in their formative years. Some of the musicians include Macklemore, Pearl Jam and Yeah Yeah Yeahs. The sweaty dancing, pulsing sounds and strangers in sync can all be felt through the pages, creating a feeling of nostalgia even for those who were never part of it.
“I was documenting my life,” said Holler. “The musicians, promoters and bouncers were my friends, and I went to see bands I enjoyed and places I could get in for free. I didn’t know I was in the middle of something new.” In an introduction by photographer Charles Peterson, he writes, “Turn the pages for memories of joyful sweaty nights, ringing ears and the wonderful expressions on the faces of the movers and shakers that Bootsy brings back alive for us.” This is an emotive collection of images from a defining era in both music and culture.
Published by Damiani, the book is now available to buy on the website.
For more in photography, check out IDEA’s new book shot by Tess Petronio.
