This is a virtual backstage pass into the behind-the-scenes world of the self-proclaimed "Glam Slam Kings of Noise" -- Poison, based on the personal encounters of author Christopher Long. An unauthorised account, A Shot of Poison chronicles Long's exploits with the members of this multi-platinum-selling group and is chock-full of insightful anecdotes and insider tales. From Long's early recollections of being introduced to the band in the late 1980s to his first-hand experiences while touring as bassist Bobby Dall's personal assistant in the 2000s, A Shot of Poison offers lively, never-before published stories and photos. Through the pages of A Shot of Poison, readers will become a "fly on the wall", gaining a unique glimpse into the heart-stopping highs and heart-breaking lows of this iconic combo. A sparkling upgrade of the original 2010 edition, this 2020 "Anniversary" reboot delivers fresh "Director's Cut" commentary and new photos, as well as updated experiences reflecting Long's continued Poison connection. Also included are many of Long's related features that have appeared in various international entertainment news publications.
For the last thirty years author Christopher Long has led the life that most rock and roll fans can only dream of. His twenty year relationship with the multi-platinum-selling band Poison combined with his vast experience as a music journalist, musician, independent record producer, concert promoter and night-club DJ makes him an acknowledged rock and roll expert and insider. Since 1985, this award-winning entertainer has performed in his own band, Dead Serios -- opening for such chart-busting groups as Marilyn Manson, Hootie and the Blowfish, Faith No More, Anthrax, Cinderella and Slaughter. As a concert promoter, Long booked his first national act (a Journey-type group called Aaron) in 1978 at the age of fifteen while attending DeLaura Junior High School in Satellite Beach, Florida. By the 1990s he was responsible for bringing groups like Marilyn Manson, Faster Pussycat and The Southern Rock All-Stars to clubs and concert stages throughout Florida's Space Coast. As a journalist, Long has spent considerable time in the last decade travelling with and interviewing various rock headliners. He is considered by many to be a leading authority on rock and roll and his lively columns and reviews are read each month on-line as well as in various Florida entertainment publications. He has also written official bios for musical artists including Poison and the band's frontman, Bret Michaels, star of the VH-1 reality show, Rock of Love. But his vast musical knowledge and experience is
...Part memoir, part biography, Long explains in great detail how he originally landed his coveted position within the bands ranks after years of friendship with bassist Bobby Dall, before becoming his go-to guy on tour... Each new revealing tale leaves you yearning to get to the next page as quickly as possible. I must admit, I didnt catch the original edition of this book the first time around, but Im definitely glad I was finally able to catch up on it... So whether or not youre even a fan of the band Poison themselves per se, there should be something for everyone here whos even had a remote interest in rock music. So put down the worries of every day life, and pick up A Shot of Poison for Nothin but a Good Time! -- Jesse Striewski, Rewind It Magazine, 12 November 2020
He writes at length about how Poison has been high on his personal list of musical heroes for ages. He writes about having kept the faith as a fan through the bands lean years. He explains the inexplicable by rattling off the respect he has for them as musicians and songwriters as well as the artistic value of their lesser-known albums. Call him a super-fan, call him crazy, call his taste into question, but the dude knows what he likes and his enthusiasm is an infectious force that drives this book. They say write about what you know and/or love and that philosophy has certainly been put into play throughout A Shot of Poison. Kevin Stewart-Panko, v13 Net, 20th November 2020
