Arts & Music Books > Popular Music Arts & Music Books > 5 GBP to 9 GBP > by Author Surname (First Letter)

Advantages: absolutly amazing book
Disadvantages: none i can remember

...go this is one of the most in depth looks into the life of debauchery you will read. The book follows the lives of Mick, Vince, Nikki and Tommy throught their crazy drug fuelled days. Each Chapter is split up into mini chapters by each memeber of the band, cleverly done so that you get an insight from everyone in the band. This is an warts an all documentry, its well written in such a way that you yourself want to be in LA shooting up with em. its ... Read review

Advantages: Extremely well researched and informative book about a true musical icon
Disadvantages: Slightly long winded, over-involved at times

I can't really say I've been a huge Who fan, I liked all their singles yet don't own any of their albums, but having musical friends it always surprised me how so many drummers would quote 'Keith Moon' as a major source of musical, and often also social, influence. I'd heard some stories about Moon the Loon but mostly thought he drowned in a car in the swimming pool (yes, I was confused with Brian Jones of the Stones)! After reading this book I have ...
...as it pretty much covers it all. Author Tony Fletcher reveals at the end of the book that, when a teenager, he met Keith shortly before his death and you can tell it's a subject close to his heart. With so many Chinese whispers, urban legends and the Who themselves exaggerating stories surrounding the legend of Keith Moon it must be hard to unravel exactly what actually happened but he certainly tries his best although occasionally gets a bit side-tracked ... Read review

Advantages: Loads of great sheet music for popular songs
Disadvantages: Several not so popular songs also included!

...from this book! As 100 songs to give my opinion on is a bit too much even for demanding ciao readers, I'm just giving my opinion on each decade and listed the songs for you! Aren't I kind?!? 1900s Land of hope and glory Bill Bailey wont you please come home Obviously the first tune is the best from this era. I'm sure there wasn't a music draught and they are in fact saving their 100 quota and copyright fees for a more recognizable era! 1910s ...
...burning They didn't believe me Swanee Probably the most boring era in the book as far as recognisable music goes… I usually skip this part but it has some good retro photos and a world war 1 poster if you are old enough to reminisce! 1920s Fascinating Rhythm If you knew Susie Show me the way to go home Bye bye blackbird Ol' man river I can't give you anything but love Sweet Sue - just you Ain't misbehavin' There is a fantastic picture ... Read review

Advantages: A book for the Beach Boys fan, who wants to know in-depth information without tabloid rubbish
Disadvantages: Interviews with Carl Wilson are not mentioned.

This book is not really a overview of the songs and albums The Beach Boys made, but a biography that gives a good in-depth view about all kinds of aspects in their musical carriere. The author, Kingsley Abott, made a study on a number of articles (known and unknown) and created a representative and critical source of information. Ofcourse the 'Pet Sounds' and 'Smile' period are extensively written about. This was the most important period in the ... Read review

Advantages: very comprehensive
Disadvantages: none

...the emotional conundrum that is Morrissey than the comparatively straight-laced guitar genius, Johnny Marr. Indeed a large section of the first part of the book is a history of the Morrissey family before little Stephen's conception. Notes of interest include the fact that Mozza's dad was a good footballer. The most interesting parts of the book however are those that deal with the band's shortlived career. Rogan searches for explanations for some ... Read review