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Javanese Gamelan

Wednesday, 8 November 2006 @ 18:44

Javanese GamelanTraditional Orchestra of Indonesia, 2nd ed.
by Jennifer Lindsay (1992)

A simple introductory text for those with no prior knowledge of gamelan. Outlining some of the basic history, background information on the instruments (with basic tuning and notations), concepts and frameworks, it also explains the structure of gamelan and its interrelationship with other art forms. A glossary, along with a list of suggested readings, recordings, photographs and figures also accompany this helpful text.

Hammer of the Gods

Thursday, 13 April 2006 @ 22:30

Led Zeppelin Unauthorised
by Stephen Davis (1985)

Hammer of the GodsProbably won’t be of much interest to anyone unless a fan. Because even though I am, and even though Davis went beyond the usual grovel at Led Zeppelin classic “dinosaur” status, it is too mould-casting to be noteworthy. The story of the rise and fall is typical of any rock n’ roll group, but it still made me laugh, the typical, brainless Zeppelin’s vertigious debauchery and misogyny. Groupies, “shark episode” (which turns out to be red snapper apparently, according to Richard Cole), their hostile relations with the media, insults hurled by “punks” and New Wave kids, Faustian curse, etc. etc.