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A Perfect Union of Contrary Things

By: Maynard James Keenan, Sarah Jensen
Narrated by: Devon Sorvari, Maynard James Keenan
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Summary

This is the official authorized biography of musician and vintner Maynard James Keenan, the enigmatic vocalist for Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer. Co-author Sarah Jensen's 30-year friendship with Keenan gives her unique insight into his history and career trajectory. The book traces Keenan's journey from his Midwest childhood to his years in the army to his time in art school, from his stint at a Boston pet shop to his place in the international spotlight and his influence on contemporary music and regional winemaking.

A comprehensive portrayal of a versatile and dedicated artist, A Perfect Union of Contrary Things pays homage to the people and places that shaped the man and his art. Until now, Maynard's fans have had access to only an abridged version of his story. A Perfect Union of Contrary Things presents the outtakes, the scenes of disappointment and triumph, and the events that led him to take one step after the next, to change direction, to explore sometimes surprising opportunities. Included are sidebars in his own words, often humorous anecdotes that illuminate the narrative, as well as commentary by his family members, friends, instructors, and industry colleagues. The book also features a foreword by Alex Grey, an American visionary artist and longtime friend of Keenan. Maynard's story is a metaphor for the listener's own evolution and an encouragement to follow one's dreams, hold fast to individual integrity, and work ceaselessly to fulfill our creative potential.

©2016 Sarah Jensen, Maynard James Keenen (P)2016 Audiobooks.com Publishing
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What listeners say about A Perfect Union of Contrary Things

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

Very linear

Gives amazing insight into the worldview and philosophy of a truly unique individual... but is definitely spun to show him in his best light only! 'I was the best at running, then I was the best at army, then I was the best at pet shops, then I was the best at rock bands, then I was the best at wines.'

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

A tale, just that . . .

Great story for the reality we're all loosing everyday of the man who is standing on both feets strong on the ground.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Loved it

Superb and a must for any fan of MJK. Really enjoyed it from start to finish

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Insightful look into the Machinations of Maynard

MJKs narrations were not as clear as Devons; he tends to mumble somewhat. But it was pleasent to have the cross over. Generally it was a nice, uplifting interpretation of how MJK believes the pieces in his life fell together. Exactly the kind of narrative you'd expect from a Military man who grows grapes and sings in rock bands on the weekend.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Very engaging. inspirational insights.

It's rare to get such insights into your musical heroes. There is so much I learnt about being, mindset and motivation. A great read.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Loved this book 😊

I enjoyed the way this was written with inserts from MJK...never read a book like that before. I thought it was a nice insight into how he became the person he is today without giving away too much detail about his personal life, quite rightly. If you're a Tool, APC or Puscifer fan....you'll love this book :0)

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

First full Audiobook.

Felt and envisioned every moment. A simple masterpiece. Feel some of Maynards life from the bad to the good.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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More than the sum of its parts.

Expected an enlightening look into Maynard's life, by the end I was inspired to create.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Excellent story about Jim and his life

Was surprised to read some of the reviews of this book as it's a great story about Jim's life and how his life has developed and evolved.

It's not a history of tool, APC or puscifer but you will learn how 'the pieces fit'.

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  • Overall
    2 out of 5 stars
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    2 out of 5 stars
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    2 out of 5 stars

Meh. Not really worth one's time

As a big Tool and Maynard (Jim!) fan I really thought I'd enjoy it more m, but instead found myself often bored at the lengthy descriptions of grapes wines and vineyards.

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3 people found this helpful