Review: The Rolling Stones are one of the most iconic bands in music history. Their 40-year odyssey has been chronicled in many books and documentaries, but Stephen Davis' Old Gods Almost Dead is a standout for its depth and insight. In this book, Davis takes readers on a journey through the Rolling Stones' career from their early days as a struggling blues band to their rise to fame and eventual decline. He delves into the personal lives of the band members, including Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, Bill Wyman, and Ron Wood, and explores how their relationships with each other shaped the Rolling Stones' music and image. One of the strengths of this book is its accessibility. Davis writes in a clear and engaging style that makes it easy for readers to follow along and understand the context of the events he describes. He also includes plenty of anecdotes and quotes from band members, managers, and other insiders, which add color and depth to his narrative. Another strength is the way Davis covers the Rolling Stones' music in detail. He analyzes their songs and albums, discussing everything from the lyrics to the production techniques used by Brian Eno and Phil Spector. This will be of particular interest to fans who want a deeper understanding of the band's creative process. However, there are also some weaknesses to this book. One is that it can sometimes feel repetitive. While Davis does provide new insights into the Rolling Stones' career, he often revisits familiar stories and anecdotes from previous books and documentaries. This can make the book seem like a retread of old ground for some readers. Another weakness is that it can sometimes feel one-sided. While Davis provides plenty of quotes and perspectives from band members, he often presents their opinions in a way that makes them seem like caricatures or stereotypes. This can make the book feel like a hagiography rather than an objective biography. Overall, Old Gods Almost Dead is a well-written and engaging book about one of the most influential bands in music history.