From Soul to Soukous (Via Manchester) - Paperback

by C. J. Smith (Author)

As the title suggests this book is a combination of personal musical memoir, travelogue and recollections of a sometime vinyl record and memorabilia collector, wannabe journalist and photographer. It traces the author's journey both literally and metaphorically across and through a range of musical genres including those discovered during his extensive international travels. From early exposure to The Beatles through to Soul and Blues and on to the more exotic sounds and experiences from across Africa, Eastern Europe and The Middle East to Central America and beyond. However much of the focus here revolves around the Manchester music scene. Whilst there is much here to please the musical geeks with regard to collecting, it is the author's stories and anecdotes, many involving luminaries from across the musical spectrum that truly engages the reader. The book includes recollections from notable gigs and concerts including the infamous Derby Hall / Joy Division riot in Bury shortly before singer Ian Curtis committed suicide. This includes postscripts to that gig that are unique and unreported. But whatever your musical taste, this book contains much more. Allowing the reader to share in the author's emotional and candid roller-coaster ride through his experiences, musical and otherwise, both near and far. From potentially dangerous encounters with Eastern European heavies, dancing on tables at Middle Eastern weddings to communally drinking 'shake shake' home brew in dubious African clubs! With a vast array of unique photographs to illustrate the work, this is a must-read for any self-respecting music fan.