The official biography · by Tyson Koska
In 1975, an unknown band from Weirton, West Virginia SHOCKED the Baltimore music scene – becoming "The Beatles of Baltimore." Rolling Stone deemed their first album "one of the year's most impressive debuts." In 2015, they listed it in the "50 Greatest Prog Rock Albums of All Time."
Yet, Baltimore's Beatles are nearly unknown everywhere else even as, 50 years later, they continue to create new music and sell out shows in their adoptive home. How does an out-of-town band hit it SO BIG in one limited market and remain a staple for half a century?
100's of interview hours — dozens of pictures — insights and stories from the past never heard before, "All Things Crack" explores the band's odd history through the voices of the original and subsequent members. The story unfolds as a 50-year conversation interspersed with lyrics and melody. Quirky, edgy, smart – like the band itself – this is the story of CRACK THE SKY.
From Weirton sidewalks to sold-out Baltimore stages — the band that never quit.
Chapter 6 — “Ice” · from the full-cast, professionally narrated audiobook.
“I got up at 5:00AM, got serious work to do today. Pulled your goddamn book out of my bag...Three hours later I'm just blown away. You've written a masterful book about some of my favorite people and music. It's absolutely incredible. Phenomenally engaging, eminently readable, VERY raw and emotional, utterly unflinching. Probably the best biopic I've ever read W*O*W !!!!!!!!”
“I purchased this with fairly low expectations and was absolutely gobsmacked by how well done it was. An oral history interspersed with interview segments, this is far more interesting than the standard rock bio. Crack the Sky are fascinating for becoming huge in one market, and one market only - and learning how the band members resolved this almost surreal experience with the realities of living one's life make for a great read.”
“Can't say enough good about this book! Everything you always wanted to know about the band...but we're afraid to ask! I read it cover to cover in 2 days, could not put it down!”
“A very interesting dive into not only the history of the band and the development of the talent and career path, but an excellent look at what the music business is really like for those that are actually in it. Nice job Tyson. I could not put this book down.”
“Having grown up listening to Crack The Sky, this book fills in many blanks with the long history of the band. The way it details the songs and albums is unlike any of the band biographies books I have read. A must read for any Crack The Sky fan.”
“I could not put this book down. I have been a fan of this band for decades and have gotten to know most of the players involved in this story. There's no requirement to be a rabid fan to enjoy this book, it is just a really good read. My mother even ordered a copy.”
“I started listening to Crack the Sky around 2005, Their music is like no other! The author, Tyson Koska captured in-depth meaning to the songs and dove deep in to his interviews with John Palumbo and the other members! Great read!”
50 years, hundreds of interview hours, and one unforgettable band — in their own words.
Secure checkout · Ships from Baltimore