Sticky Fingers

ROLLING STONE magazine's founder, Jann Wenner, is the subject of Joe Hagan's research and reportage in this overly detailed work. Dennis Boutsikaris skillfully provides a nuanced, appealing narration of the entire text, except for the brief afterword, which Hagan handles in an offhand manner. Wenner originally requested this biography, but ultimately distanced himself, describing the effort as both flawed and tawdry. The story here bears out the truth of the clich�d triumvirate sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Detailed analyses, anecdotes, and scenarios of a cruel and heartless Wenner grow stale quickly. Should listeners have any deep-seated affection and nostalgia for the early years of the magazine, be prepared to have those feelings evaporate. W.A.G. � AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine