Well, you'd be a brave soul to say it wasn't.

We would all like to think it is, and can offer plenty of anecdotal proof.

We could start with, "Who was at the Star Hotel" on the night of the famous riot?

I know, I know, that's not fair, because 50,000 people will tell you they were there. (I wasn't there). The riot was September 19, 1979. The headlining band was The Heroes.

But we do love our rock 'n' roll folklore. Bless Silverchair for leading the way and putting us on the world map. There are dozens of other heroes too...

And still, wave after wave of those who still start out in their garage, and eventually make it to the stage at the Cambridge, or further.

While there's a healthy collection of history books and websites about Newcastle's past rock 'n' roll days, it's great to see a new book on the subject. The book, Hey Rock 'n' Roll, by Rick Pointon,a long-time figure in Newcastle music circles, is certain to stir up more memories by fans who grew up in the city in the last 60 years or so.

Check out Herald senior journalist Scott Bevan's story about Pointon and the book.

Jim Kellar, Weekender editor