Dear Smash Hits, We’re From Scotland! By Alastair MacDonald Jackson (Earth Island Books)

“Dear Smash Hits, We’re From Scotland!” by Alastair MacDonald Jackson is an illuminating deep dive into Scotland’s rich, yet often overlooked, independent music scene. Rather than focusing on well-trodden narratives from global music capitals like London or New York, Jackson shifts the lens to the edges of Scotland, uncovering a wealth of musical history and creativity emanating from its most remote areas. What makes this book particularly engaging is its emphasis on the DIY ethos that thrived in Scotland, from the rise of cassette labels and fanzines to the significant role women played in shaping the indie music culture. The narrative opens up avenues of exploration into the music-making communities scattered across the Scottish islands, places often perceived as distant from the main arteries of the music industry. Jackson weaves in his own experiences in producing music zines, using this as a foundation to tell a broader story about how these grassroots efforts supported the growth of independent Scottish music. The fanzine culture, in particular, is highlighted as a critical vehicle for musicians and fans alike to connect, share ideas, and foster a uniquely DIY-driven scene. Zines such as Bam Balam, Ripped & Torn, and Slow Dazzle served as both platforms for expression and community hubs, helping indie artists gain traction far from the influence of major record labels.

A key strength of the book is a collection of interviews with prominent figures in the Scottish music scene, ranging from bands like The Rezillos, The Pastels, and Strawberry Switchblade, to cassette label owners and fanzine editors. These interviews offer first-hand insights into the motivations and challenges that musicians and creatives faced during Scotland’s indie music revolution. Jackson’s conversational style and the inclusion of these voices bring the past to life, with stories about punk and post-punk movements, lo-fi recordings, and the creative isolation of making music in the far reaches of Scotland. Among the more surprising revelations is the connection of influential punk figures like Sex Pistols designer Jamie Reid to the Scottish islands. The book delves into quirky details, such as Reid’s time on the Isle of Lewis, where he received the call from Malcolm McLaren that would catapult him into punk history. Equally fascinating are the connections to Joe Strummer, whose grandmother hailed from the island of Raasay, further demonstrating the surprising ways in which Scotland’s remote areas intersected with punk and indie music lore.

Jackson also traces the resurgence of DIY culture in recent years, showing how it has come full circle with new generations of musicians and zine-makers continuing to challenge the status quo. The book closes with a reflection on the enduring appeal of Scotland’s DIY scene, its influence far beyond the country’s borders, and its role in inspiring today’s musicians and independent labels. “Dear Smash Hits, We’re From Scotland!” is a must-read for anyone interested in the hidden corners of music history. By spotlighting the unique stories of Scottish indie music, Jackson offers a refreshing and comprehensive look at a vibrant subculture that thrived on the margins but left an unforgettable mark on the wider music world. Head to Engineer Records for more information about ordering.