An illuminating new biography of one of Britain's biggest and most influential bands, written with the full input and cooperation of Simple Minds, shedding new light on their dazzling art-rock legacy.
The critically acclaimed definitive biography of Kate Bush, revised and updated for 2024, with a new foreword by Sinead Gleeson.
First published as Cowboy song: the authorised biography of Philip Lynott in the United Kingdom by Constable.
"Elvis Costello is undoubtedly one of the most important and challenging musicians of the last thirty years, and this definitive biography paints a detailed portrait of an intensely private, complex and creatively restless individual. It draws on a wealth of new primary research, including exclusive interviews with nearly fifty people from all stages of Costello's life and career : schoolmates, friends, members of his earliest bands Rusty and Flip City, former lovers, members of The Attractions, producers, collaborators and numerous fellow musicians." "Complicated Shadows unearths many previously unknown details about Costello's childhood in London and Liverpool and his early years as a struggling musician, as well as his turbulent personal life. It also reveals the circumstances surrounding his marriages to ex-Pogues bassist Cait O'Riordan and jazz singer Diana Krall, and the bitter break-up of his long-term backing band, The Attractions. Using the recollections of those who were there at the time - the majority of whom have never spoken publicly before - the book contains a full examination and analysis of the entirety of Costello's vast and varied musical output, both in the studio and onstage."--Jacket
Hurt, Redemption, and American Recordings
In 1992, Johnny Cash faced significant challenges, battling heart issues, broken bones, and the aftermath of drug addiction. His career, too, was in decline; after nearly 30 years with CBS, he was dropped in 1986, with his last single being the forgettable "Chicken In Black." At 60, he seemed destined for obscurity, preparing to open a theme park in Branson, Missouri, while playing small venues. However, by December 1993, everything changed. Cash performed at the Viper Room on Sunset Boulevard, captivating an audience that included Johnny Depp, Sean Penn, and Juliette Lewis. This marked the launch of his remarkable comeback, fueled by his collaboration with producer Rick Rubin on the landmark "American Recordings." The album won him a Grammy, leading to further accolades for subsequent releases. His unforgettable Glastonbury performance in 1994 solidified his resurgence, earning him admiration from artists like Nick Cave and Bono. The narrative explores Cash's tumultuous past, including his struggles with addiction and faith, while focusing on the lesser-known period of his decline after 1970 and his extraordinary revival in later years, culminating in his status as a cultural icon until his death in 2003.
general issues; learning material & coursework
Small Hours is an intimate, unflinching biography of one of the great maverick artists.
Paperback version of Small Hours with updates.
Literatures and Cultures in Motion
