In "Whatever Happened to the C86 Kids?" Nige Tassell embarks on a nostalgic journey back to 1986, when a humble cassette from NME heralded the birth of 'indie' and set the stage for a musical revolution. This compilation of twenty-two guitar-based bands not only defined a generation but also charted the divergent paths of the artists who dared to dream within its magnetic strips. Tassell's exploration is a captivating chronicle of ambition, creativity, and the unpredictable fates that befell the architects of this pivotal moment in music history. From the dizzying heights of global stardom reached by bands like Primal Scream to the dedicated cult followings of groups such as Half Man Half Biscuit and the Wedding Present, the book delves into the stories of success, struggle, and the often harsh realities of the music industry. Yet, Tassell's narrative goes beyond mere musicology, presenting a rich tapestry of life after pop's spotlight fades. With a keen eye for detail and a palpable affection for his subjects, he tracks down the C86 alumni to find them thriving in roles far removed from their rockstar beginnings—among them, a bike-shop owner, an architecture professor, and even an Olympic sailor hopeful. "Whatever Happened to the C86 Kids?" is not just a recounting of musical history but a heartfelt study of resilience, reinvention, and the enduring impact of a brief moment in time when indie music captured the imagination of a generation. Through Tassell's light-hearted yet poignant prose, the legacy of C86 is brought vividly to life, celebrating the spirit of an era where the dream of pop stardom gave way to diverse destinies woven into the fabric of everyday life.