Strange Horizons, 19 April 2004

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"Burn Here With Me" by Amy Hembree

"Burn Here With Me" is a story for Jazz lovers.  Amy Hembree's slightly self-indulgent writing style is like a bass solo that starts after the hook and lingers too far beyond when the band has joined back in. 

Caleb is approached by a club owner who will pay Alpha Bravo a million dollars a night for a three night gig at his mysterious venue.  Suspicious of the deal, Caleb researches the familiar-looking businessman and finds he's dabbled in the musical success of two bands from two different and distant eras.  The musician must then make a hard decision to either trust the man or turn down a break that could catapult Alpha Bravo onto the major charts.

Why do many famous musicians die shortly after their initial success?  Should anyone in the business avoid fast cars, airplane rides, and crazed fans as Caleb's brother warns?  If you had a time machine, would you use it to save the world, or to hire cool bands for your private parties?  Read the story and find your own answers.