"The Virgin Encyclopedia of 60's Music" written by Colin Larkin is a comprehensive and captivating reference book that delves into the iconic music of the 1960s. As an acclaimed music critic and historian, Larkin displays his extensive knowledge and deep passion for the era in this incredibly well-researched and engaging book.
This book covers a wide range of genres including rock, pop, folk, soul, and psychedelic music. Larkin provides detailed profiles and analysis of numerous artists and bands, both well-known and lesser-known, highlighting their contributions to the vibrant music scene of the 1960s. From legendary acts like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and Jimi Hendrix, to the hidden gems of the era, this book offers in-depth insights into the music that shaped a generation.
One of the standout features of this book is Larkin's ability to contextualize the music within the social and cultural backdrop of the time. He explores the influence of the Vietnam War, social unrest, and the counterculture movement on the evolution of music in the 1960s. This added layer of analysis deepens the reader's understanding of the music and its significant impact on society.
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Larkin's writing style is accessible and captivating, making it a pleasure to read for both casual fans and seasoned music enthusiasts. The book is organized in a user-friendly format with entries alphabetically arranged, allowing readers to easily browse through their favorite artists or discover new ones. Additionally, the inclusion of photographs, album covers, and concert posters adds a visual appeal that further enhances the overall reading experience.
"The Virgin Encyclopedia of 60's Music" not only serves as an invaluable resource for music lovers, but also takes readers on a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who experienced the 1960s firsthand. Larkin's expertise and passion truly shine through in every page, and his dedication to preserving the legacy of 60s music is evident. Whether you're a fan of the era or simply curious about its musical landscape, this book is highly recommended for an enriching and enjoyable read.
What are readers saying?
"The Virgin Encyclopedia of 60's Music" by Colin Larkin garnered a range of responses from readers. Some praised the book for providing a comprehensive overview of music from the 1960s, encompassing various genres such as rock, pop, folk, and soul. The book's well-organized structure and clear navigation were appreciated, allowing readers to easily find information about specific artists or songs. The inclusion of album covers and photographs added visual appeal to the reading experience.
However, some readers felt that the book lacked depth, presenting more of a catalog of facts rather than a true encyclopedia. They desired more analysis and insight into the music and its cultural impact. Others criticized the book for its limited representation of lesser-known artists and genres, arguing that it primarily focused on mainstream music from the era.
Additionally, reviewers noted that the book's 1997 publication date rendered it outdated, failing to capture the ongoing evolution and influence of 60's music. Suggestions were made for a newer edition that incorporates more recent research and developments in music history, providing a more relevant resource for readers.
Furthermore, a number of readers found the writing style to be dry and lacking engaging storytelling. The book was regarded as more of a reference tool rather than an immersive reading experience. This hindered their ability to stay engaged and motivated to continue reading.
In conclusion, "The Virgin Encyclopedia of 60's Music" by Colin Larkin received a mixed reception from readers. While some appreciated its comprehensive coverage and organized structure, others found it lacking in depth, outdated, and written in a dry style. Readers seeking a basic overview of 60's music may find the book satisfactory, but those desiring a more nuanced exploration would be advised to supplement their reading with additional sources.
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