Chicago Blues: As Seen from the Inside : Book Review

"Chicago Blues" by Raebum Flerlage dives into the captivating world of the bustling and soulful music scene that thrived in Chicago during the 1950s and 1960s. As a renowned music photographer, Flerlage brings his personal experiences and mesmerizing visuals to the pages, capturing the very essence of this influential era in blues history.

With vivid storytelling and a wealth of historical anecdotes, Flerlage sheds light on the legendary musicians who shaped the Chicago blues scene. From the iconic Muddy Waters to the electrifying Howlin' Wolf, readers are introduced to the artists who revolutionized the genre and propelled it to new heights. Flerlage's deep passion and expert knowledge of the music shine through, making this book an absolute must-read for any blues enthusiast.

Beyond the captivating stories, Flerlage's mesmerizing photographs add a visual dimension that truly breathes life into the era. Each image encapsulates the raw energy of live performances, intimate moments offstage, and the cultural atmosphere surrounding the music. These photographs not only enhance the storytelling, but also serve as invaluable historical documents, preserving the memories of these influential musicians for generations to come.

In addition to the fascinating narratives and stunning visuals, "Chicago Blues" pays homage to the city itself by exploring the iconic music venues that birthed and nurtured the blues movement. Flerlage takes readers on a virtual tour of these legendary establishments, providing insight into their significance and the pivotal role they played in the development of the blues scene.

Overall, "Chicago Blues" is a comprehensive and immersive exploration of the music, the musicians, and the city that became synonymous with an era in blues history. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply curious about the genre, this book offers a fascinating and nostalgic glimpse into a vibrant time and place that continues to resonate with music lovers today.

What are readers saying?

The book "Chicago Blues" by Raebum Flerlage has received a mixed reaction from readers. Some praised the comprehensive collection of photographs and the author's dedication to capturing the essence of Chicago's blues scene, while others felt the book lacked depth and context.

Many reviewers appreciated the visual aspect of "Chicago Blues," applauding Flerlage's black and white photographs for effectively capturing the raw energy and soul of the city's blues musicians. They described the images as powerful and evocative, transporting readers back to the vibrant music scene of the 1960s. Numerous readers also noted that the book served as a valuable documentation of a pivotal era in blues history.

However, some readers found the book to be lacking substance beyond the photographs. Critics felt that there was a lack of context and analysis, leaving them wanting more information about the musicians and the history of Chicago blues. They believed that the book missed an opportunity to delve deeper into the stories behind the photographs, resulting in a less engaging and informative read.

Another aspect that garnered mixed feedback was the organization of the book. While some enjoyed the chronological order, as it allowed them to witness the evolution of the Chicago blues scene, others found it to be disjointed and confusing. They pointed out that the sequencing at times seemed arbitrary and suggested that clearer organization or commentary could have improved the reading experience.

Despite these flaws, many readers still viewed "Chicago Blues" as a valuable addition to their music collections. Fans of blues music and photography, in particular, appreciated the book, as it provided a glimpse into a bygone era. Overall, the reviews suggest that while some readers may have desired more context and analysis, "Chicago Blues" succeeds in capturing the spirit and energy of the Chicago blues scene through its visually stunning photographs.

ChicagoBlues BookRecommendations MusicHistory