Faust - Stretch Out Time 1970-1975 : Book Review

"Faust: Stretch Out Time 1970-1975" is a captivating and interactive exploration of the influential German rock band Faust and their formative years. Authored by Andy Wilson, this book provides a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the band's music, ideology, and their socio-political context, offering readers a profound understanding of Faust's pioneering approach to music-making.

Wilson delves deep into Faust's unconventional and experimental style, highlighting their groundbreaking use of sound manipulation and studio techniques. Drawing from interviews with band members and a meticulous examination of their albums, the author sheds light on the philosophical and artistic intentions behind Faust's music, making it an essential read for enthusiasts and scholars alike.

One of the book’s notable strengths is its meticulous attention to detail. Wilson explores Faust's collaborative nature and their significant influence on the music scene at large. By examining the band's collaborations with esteemed artists like Tony Conrad and Slapp Happy, the author showcases how Faust's distinctive sound resonated within the avant-garde music community.

Additionally, Wilson skillfully paints a vivid portrait of the socio-political climate in which Faust emerged. He provides readers with contextual insights into the counterculture movement and the broader German cultural landscape, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the band's music and its impact on society.

In conclusion, "Faust: Stretch Out Time 1970-1975" offers a captivating and thorough account of Faust's formative years. Andy Wilson's meticulous research and profound understanding of the band's music make this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the history of experimental rock or Faust's lasting contributions to the genre.

What are readers saying?

"Faust: Stretch Out Time 1970-1975," written by Andy Wilson, has received a combination of positive and negative reviews from readers, offering a range of perspectives on the content, style, and overall quality of the book. Some readers have praised the book for its comprehensive and insightful exploration of the influential German experimental rock band Faust during their early years. They highly value Wilson's extensive research and interviews with band members, which provide a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creation of the group's iconic music. These readers also appreciate Wilson's engaging writing style, which effectively captures the spirit and energy of Faust's music and brings the band's story to life.

However, there are readers who express disappointment with the book, stating that it lacks organization and coherence. They find the narrative to be disorganized and confusing, making it challenging to follow the band's story in chronological order. These readers also feel that the book focuses too much on technical details of the music, which can be overwhelming for those who are less familiar with Faust's discography.

Additionally, some reviewers highlight that Wilson's writing style is overly academic and dense, making the book feel inaccessible and difficult to engage with. They believe that a more approachable and reader-friendly tone would have made the content more enjoyable and appealing to a broader audience.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still appreciate "Faust: Stretch Out Time 1970-1975" for its valuable contributions in understanding Faust as a groundbreaking band in the history of experimental rock. They value the book's commitment to documenting the band's legacy and providing a deeper appreciation for their music, even if there are flaws in its execution.

Overall, opinions on Andy Wilson's book about Faust are divided. While some readers regard it as a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the band's early years, others criticize its organization, writing style, and accessibility. Nevertheless, the book remains a valuable resource for those interested in delving into the world of Faust and their influential music.

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