Nico - In The Shadow Of The Moon Goddess

Lutz's new book is a very good history and tribute.I was there in the New York days he writes about, and I think he captures the times and the people very clearly and with compassion. I feel a lot of gratitude to the author for his honesty, which is a quality frequently lacking in autobiographical work - "the unvarnished truth". I also like very much his decision to write in his fluent yet German-inflected English. It gives the book his own, authentic voice. I wish more non-native English writers would follow his example, at least when writing autobiographically.I remember several of the incidents told in the book and they seem perfectly recalled: for instance, the day of the big fight with Nico, when Lutz came to stay with me for a little bit of refuge just before he left New York. Hard times. And, remembered and recounted with great clarity.His experience as Nico's guitar player is very well told - the flashes of poetry and insight in her conversation, the remarkable experience of accompanying her in the hauntingly arranged and deeply ironic Deutschland Uber Alles and in Janitor of Lunacy and All Tomorrow's Parties and so forth, the money disputes, her searching for methadone, playing the New York scene of punk clubs and the LA and European music scenes. Her drug use is revealed clearly and cumulatively in his book, without resorting to a lot of unneeded editorial comment, as a horrible nightmare which hurt her terribly. I believe the book shows that Nico was a seriously ill person at times, but very creative, suffering from addiction and depression, but with a strong spark of creativity that would really shock and delight you.My personal favorite part of the book is his memory of those sunny days in the park playing music together: they really were big fun.So - in general the book was fun to read, with many adventures and good pictures and reprints of letters. In other hands it could have become a boring catalog of concerts and travel from one place to another - but his writing is very natural to read and he brings vivid details and the meaning of memories quite strongly to the front. He is revealed, as the book unfolds, with an intelligence and strength of character that gives this autobiographical work its power. You're in the hands of a good storyteller!Finally, the book is at root intended as a tribute to a remarkable, troubled, creative person, and I think it succeeds at making a very fine tribute.

Singer-songwriter Christa Päffgen, better known as Nico, was a truly unique and mysterious presence in the world of music. With her dungeon-deep vocals, medieval-sounding harmonium, gothic lyrical imagery, and darkly enchanting persona, Nico was an artist like no other. In the Seventies, she met fellow German musician, Lutz "Lüül" Ulbrich (Ash Ra Tempel, Agitation Free). Together, Nico and Ulbrich formed a relationship that involved romance, artistic collaboration, heroin, and ultimately a friendship that would last for the rest of Nico's life. With his new book, In The Shadow of the Moon Goddess, Ulbrich gives us a true insider's look at the life and career of Nico, with a focus on the Seventies when they were most closely involved. Nico fans will enjoy reading of Lutz and Nico's romance, landmark performances at Reims Cathedral and CBGB, and their interactions with such famous names as John Cale, Lou Reed, David Bowie, Philippe Garrel, and Tim Hardin. On the darker side, there are in-depth stories of heroin addiction and drug smuggling, as well as Nico's last days (including her incredible final concert Fata Morgana). Also of interest are the many rare photos and even some postcards that Nico wrote to Ulbrich over the years. This book is a must-read for all admirers of this one-of-a-kind artist.Brad K

I don't usually write reviews for any reviews but for this I had to as it is a great read written by a wonderful person. It gives greater depth and insight into Nico's more personal side than other books. I'd recommend checking out the other biographies too if you want to try to get to grips with the icon that is Nico. Anyway, I read it from cover to cover as soon as I bought it. Fantastic. I recommend it wholeheartedly. Very nice letters, postcards, and photos that come with it which are just brilliant.

Very good read, including the dialect and phrasing added to the experience. A thoughtful remembrance spoken in truth and candor from someone who deeply cared for the woman behind the image.

A Good book on Nico by one of her band mates; not as grim as, "The End," & nice visuals.

Many detailed events and stories are told in his great book on icon Nico.I recommend it to the faithful fans of hers out there.

Nico spirit lives on forever in the hearts of those who love her . Great read . Rip Nico moon goddess

Wonderful account of "the lost years" in Paris in the 70's with some smashing photos included. If you love Nico, this is essential!

Great literature this ain't but its heartfelt , frank + sincere .Nico hated being beautiful + wished she'd been born a man .She wasn't much good at anything except being herself . Most felt she couldn't sing but perhaps Jim Sullivan captured her mystery best when he wrote " Her music walks the borderline between sensuality and gloominess ( Strange Interlude With Nico )Right to the very end Nico was The Velvet Underground's very own...their very own Ice Maiden .This tragic tale tells it all .

Who better to write a book about Nico than one intimately connected with her. It's an absolute delight from beginning to end.

Wonderful,very insightful look at one of musics more enigmatic figures from the inside, some great pictures too. Would love to own a physical copy if it's released

The books were interesting - she was a clever girl - spoke 7 languages fluently .. but sadly couldn’t sing ! Don’t waste your money buying CD’s

With this book you can feel very close to Nico. This book is all about Nico. I just wish it could be longer, since Lutz has spent so much time with her. Not that it's a short book, but you can never get too much of Nico. Beware, you may wanna try some heroine.