Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

In the effervescent memoir No Big Deal, Dean Brownrout takes readers on a rollicking journey through the tumultuous indie music scene of the late 20th century. The book offers a vivid slice of cultural history, charting the seismic shifts within the music industry as it grapples with the digital revolution. Brownrout, with decades of experience as a booking agent and label manager, unfolds a personal and expansively informative narrative. He introduces us to a world where ambition and creativity collide with economic realities and evolving technology. His story zigzags from the gritty clubs of New York City to the emerging buzz of digital startups, capturing the highs of musical innovation and the lows of industry disruption.

Dean Brownrout shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes about the musicians and moguls he has encountered. From impromptu jam sessions to boardroom battles, each chapter pulses with the heart and soul of a true music enthusiast. Through a narrative that is both laugh-out-loud funny and occasionally poignant, Brownrout captures the essence of an era. The text shifts from the exhilaration of live concerts to the nail-biting tensions of business deals, framed by the relentless pace of technological change. It’s a story about music, yes, but also about the people behind the music—the artists, the fans, the promoters, and the innovators. Brownrout’s narrative is a compelling reminder that in the dizzying world of music, the stakes are high, the falls can be hard, but the journey is always worth the song. It's a must-read for those who appreciate an insider's look at the music business.