Talking Smack: Honest Conversations about Drugs (Andrew McMillen, UQP)

Talking Smack features 14 revealing interviews with Australia’s most successful musicians about their attitudes to, and experiences with, illicit, legal and prescription drugs. The premise for writing the book was that while alcohol and nicotine are accepted, illicit drugs and drug users (including recreational users) have been demonised, and the national debate needs to be more compassionate and reasoned rather than geared towards punishment. The book also explores the mythology surrounding ‘sex, drugs and rock‘n’roll’, taboos around drugs, the connection between creativity and drug use, and whether Australia is ultimately a booze or drug culture. Drugs discussed include heroin, cocaine, cannabis, ecstasy, methamphetamine and speed; nicotine and alcohol; and Zoloft, which is used to treat anxiety and depression, and beta blockers, which are used to treat performance anxiety. Abstinence also plays a prominent role. Interviewees include Steve Kilbey (The Church), Paul Kelly, Tina Arena, Phil Jamieson (Grinspoon) and Wally de Backer (Gotye). Standouts were Lindy Morrison (The Go-Betweens), who talks about her work with Support Act Ltd, the music industry benevolent society that provides assistance to musicians and workers who become ill; and Bertie Blackman, the youngest daughter of artist Charles Blackman, who speaks openly about her struggles with alcohol and anxiety.

Paula Grunseit is a freelance journalist, editor and reviewer