Mystery Train: Images of America in Rock 'N' Roll Music: Fourth Revised Edition - Softcover

Marcus, Greil

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0452278368 ISBN 13: 9780452278363

Publisher: Penguin, 1997

Synopsis

In this important and influential book, Greil Marcus takes as his premise the idea that American music is one more stage in the production of the American myth and is summised through the mass media as the expression of a popular culture. This book is written with a sophistication, erudition and passion for rock and roll music that has influenced every writer on the subject since its first publication in 1974.

About this title

Review:

More than 20 years after its initial publication, Mystery Train remains one of the smartest, most provocative books ever written about rock-and-roll. Marcus puts his subjects--which include Robert Johnson, Elvis Presley, The Band, Randy Newman and Sly Stone--into their proper context, which is the culture-at-large. He makes you understand why these musicians matter and what they have contributed to the American imagination. In his introduction, Marcus confesses that he is no longer "capable of mulling over Elvis without thinking about Herman Melville"--to the benefit, I might add, of both parties. --Gala Brand

Review:

?Gets as close to the heart and soul of America and American music as the best of rock ?n? roll.? ?Bruce Springsteen ?The finest examination to date of American popular music.? ?Alan Light, "Entertainment Weekly" ?Probably the best book ever written about rock.? ?"Rolling Stone"

About this edition

• Publisher: Penguin
• Publication date: 1997
• ISBN 10: 0452278368
• ISBN 13: 9780452278363
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 5
• Number of pages: 336