"A-Z of Doom & Gothic Metal" by Garry Sharpe-Young is an incredibly thorough and comprehensive exploration of the world of doom and gothic metal music. Whether you're a devoted fan or just discovering these subgenres, this book serves as an invaluable resource.
Sharpe-Young starts off by providing a detailed introduction that delves into the origins and defining characteristics of doom and gothic metal. By breaking down the various subgenres contained within these categories, he helps readers navigate the distinct sounds, themes, and styles unique to each. From classic doom metal to the atmospheric and melancholic vibe of gothic metal, this book covers it all.
What sets "A-Z of Doom & Gothic Metal" apart is its exhaustive collection of artist profiles. Sharpe-Young meticulously outlines the biographies and discographies of over 300 bands, ranging from well-known acts like My Dying Bride and Type O Negative to emerging underground musicians. Each entry provides insight into the band's musical influences, acclaimed albums, and their overall impact on the genre.
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Visually, the book is a treat. Filled with captivating photographs and album artwork, it immerses readers into the dark and haunting aesthetic of doom and gothic metal. Sharpe-Young's passion shines through as he draws connections between different bands and paints a vivid picture of the genres' evolution over time.
In conclusion, "A-Z of Doom & Gothic Metal" is a vital read for anyone captivated by the music of these genres. With Sharpe-Young's meticulous research, informative writing style, and comprehensive coverage, this book serves as the ultimate guide to exploring the depths of this mesmerizing and dark corner of the metal world.
What are readers saying?
The book "A-Z of Doom, Gothic & Metal" written by Garry Sharpe-Young has garnered a mixed response from readers. While some found it informative and thorough, others believed it lacked depth and held a biased perspective.
Many reviewers praised the extensive content and the author's dedication to encompassing a wide range of bands and subgenres within the heavy metal and gothic music scenes. They found the book to be a valuable resource for music enthusiasts seeking to delve further into these genres. The inclusion of album covers and band photographs was also commended, as it enhanced the visual appeal of the book.
However, some readers felt that the author's subjective opinions and personal biases were evident throughout the book. They perceived certain bands receiving more attention and acclaim than others, resulting in an imbalanced representation of the genre. Additionally, criticism was aimed at the lack of in-depth analysis, with readers suggesting the inclusion of more detailed interviews and research on specific bands.
Another point of contention among reviewers was the organization of the book. While some found it easy to navigate, others believed that the alphabetical arrangement of bands disrupted the flow of reading and made it challenging to connect related bands or subgenres.
Furthermore, a few readers expressed disappointment with the quality of the writing and editing. They felt that the language used was overly technical and inaccessible for casual readers, and occasional spelling and grammar errors were noted.
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