June 2010
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"Use what talents you possess: the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best." Henry Van Dyke
Patti Smith’s best selling memoir, “Just Kids” details her life in New York City during the late 1960’s and early 1970’s as she struggles to become famous as a poet and musician. Capturing the deeply moving and lifelong friendship she cultivates with photographer and artist Robert Mapplethorpe, this book paints a portrait of innocence, love and commitment. Delve into the community of artists, both famous and obscure, that crossed their paths when they were “just kids” in New York City.
A gorgeous book filled with hundreds of photographs and memorabilia, “Queen: The Ultimate Illustrated History of the Crown Kings of Rock” by Phil Sutcliffe depicts one of the most highly celebrated rock bands of all times. Accompanying the beautiful visuals is an informative array of anecdotes, tour dates and discographies. This book is a fitting way to celebrate this extremely accomplished band who earned 18 number one albums and 18 number one singles.From our Young Adult collection, Dean Ellis Kohler’s nonfiction book demonstrates the healing power of music during horrific times. “Rock ‘N’ Roll Soldier” tells his true story of being drafted into the Army's 127th Military Police Company during the Vietnam War just as his current band finally landed a record deal. Receiving orders from his captain to form a military rock band, he improvises band instruments, teaches his fellow members to play and forms Electrical Banana. His first-hand account of chaos and tragedy in the war torn jungle, alongside the redemptive power of music tells a gripping tale.“Canyon of Dreams: The Magic and the Music of Laurel Canyon” by Harvey Kubernik is an eye-catching and entertaining history of the legendary eighty year-old Los Angeles neighborhood that was home to some of the most famous of musicians and eccentric characters. Former inhabitants of this illustrious area, from jazz musicians to rock stars, share unique stories of band formations, first gigs, parties and adventures. Copiously illustrated with ephemera such as restaurant menus, matchbooks, and record jackets, this book is a fascinating trip into this unique community.
Like many musicians, my own aspiring rock career was not initially met with brazen enthusiasm. Missy, Pooch and Puppy or my “wooly groupies” as I referred to them would not even curtail their howls of displeasure at my numerous makeshift home performances. Was it really too much for them to feign interest as I recreated all 5 minutes and 55 seconds of Bohemian Rhapsody until the legendary gong crash at song’s end?
Regrettably, I never did hit it big as a rocker, although Pooch had literary success with her runaway best selling book “How to Succeed in Attentiveness While Not Really Listening.”
Jill Martinson
Library Specialist |