Encyclopedia of Classic Rock

May 15, 2017

Luhrssen, arts and entertainment editor of the Shepherd Express newspaper in Milwaukee, and Larson, a guitar instructor, songwriter, and attorney, identify classic rock as "a distinct artistic movement comparable to Dadaism or German Expressionism" and aim to "define terms and rescue classic rock from careless usage." The authors specifically focus on the years 1965-75, arguing that this period is when classic rock reached its peak. A chronology that lists historical events along with album releases helps set the stage. Entries on different artists are alphabetically arranged, from giants such as the Beatles, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and the Rolling Stones to more unexpected choices such as Captain Beefheart, Randy Newman, and Kraftwerk. Throughout, Luhrssen and Larson explore relevant topics (e.g., psychedelia, FM radio, rock festivals). "Suggested albums" at the end of entries are included, with some cross-referencing. Subgenres (for instance, folk rock, country rock, and progressive rock) are examined. Since this era is so rich with talent, the book is packed, with lots of music to track down, remember, or revisit. Black-and-white photos highlight the text, and a list of recommended reading offers more information. VERDICT Libraries looking to bolster their rock music collections should consider this resource. Students can use it as a starting point for research or to discover unfamiliar artists, while fans will enjoy overviews of their favorite groups.--Barbara Kundanis, Longmont P.L., CO

Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

May 15, 2017
This book is mainly an alphabetical listing, with most entries less than a page long, of new and aesthetically daring forms of rock music that dominated popular culture from 1965 to 1975. The preface gives a brief sociohistorical background of the time period and highlights some of the unique characteristics of classic rock, such as a reliance on the long album (as opposed to short, radio-friendly singles); the influence of bands from outside the U.S. and Great Britain; and the belief in rock and roll as a culturally significant art form. The introduction takes pains to define precisely what classic rock means, but a perusal of the list of entries offers a good indication of the parameters of the term. Not all entries are bands or individual singerssome are devoted to style or genre as well. For example, there are entries on Doo-wop, Heavy metal, Turkish psychedelia, Eastern Bloc rock, and Concept album. Additionally, not all bands are household names, even to the seasoned rock scholarAsh Ra Tempel (Germany), Le Orme (Italy), and Quatermass (a guitarless British band) are a few of the surprises here. All entries have at least one Suggested Album and often a see also reference as well. Intentionally aimed at everyone from students to music intellectuals, this useful and fun volume would be a nice addition to any public or academic library collection. It is thoroughly browsable and will likely send users straight to the audiovisual section to find some music!(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)