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Producing Country: The Inside Story of the Great Recordings

Weinstein also knows a lot about rock bands, and is equally comfortable talking about Bill Haley in the ’50s and the Smashing Pumpkins in the ’90s. As she has done in her earlier work, there are also useful discussions of lyrics and the meanings embedded in various rock songs. The book represents an impressive achievement, combining readability with the integration of many distinct disciplinary strands (history, sociology, technology, economics, and musicology) into a concise narrative. The book is a bit thin on the music theory side. For example, the opening chapter, “What is Rock?”, does not effectively discuss the unique tonal and sonic characteristics of rock. Also, while the book makes frequent use of the term “hybrid,” what exactly rock was borrowing or combining is not clear. Although the influences of R&B are discussed in places, nothing is said about what rock borrowed from country (such as the chord progressions and high harmonies) or classical music. The fact that rock was influenced by these styles is noted, but there is no elaboration. The book also provides “listening guides” that highlight examples of songs from different rock genres (such as protest songs, girl groups, and doo-wop). Listening requirements would certainly be a part of any music history class, so these are helpful. However, given that many young people today are ignorant of the history of rock, these guides should have some cues as to what to listen for, be it a compelling or controversial lyric or an original sonic innovation. The listening guide for “Arena Rock,” for example, lists “The Trees” by Rush. A short note indicating that this song shows how rock has borrowed from classical music, or how “Runnin’ with the Devil” (another song listed) pioneered a unique guitar playing style, would help beginners. Those new to rock could then access the themes developed in the text. These are minor issues, however, and do not detract from what is a comprehensive and well-rounded history of rock music.