Decent overview of Pernice's career and his aesthetic. But I think the author and the first commenter overestimate Joe's obscurity to some degree. Jeez, I've been listening since 1998, and I live in Kentucky!

Can somebody in Oregon back up my claim that the Pernice Brothers are a well-known and widely championed band? I've seen 'em at least three times, and the rooms were packed every time.

For a different take on the novel and the soundtrack album, check out my reviews at The Brown Tweed Society:

http://thebrowntweedsociety.com/2009/07/28/it-feels-so-good-when-i-stop/

Both times I saw the Pernice Brothers in Seattle, the clubs were indeed packed. However, this was in 2001 and 2002.

Frankly, I'll never understand why someone as talented as Pernice would ever have trouble paying the rent. The Pernice Brothers' "Yours, Mine and Ours" was one of the best pop albums of the '90s.