Rating: 
Summary: American Axe
Review: Phil Carson sets a new standard with his musical bio of the late eclectic virtuoso guitarist, Roy Buchanon. Combining great empathy for his subject, musical knowledge, researching skills and a narrative style that is at once hip, entertaining and informative, Carson spins a fable for our times. Buchanon's career spanned the birth and development of rock 'n' roll and Carson weaves a story at once poignant and provocative as Buchanon squanders his phenomenal talent while wrestling with the inner demons that plagued his life. As much a human interest drama as an essential book for guitarists and fans of all persuasions, "American Axe" also includes terrific photos and a detailed discography.
Rating:
Summary: Roy Buchanan: American Axe
Review: This is a wonderful biography of one of the most original and talented guitar players of the 20th century. The book is well researched and written. The author does a great job of telling Roy's life story. He covers everything from Roy's childhood through his last days with numerous interviews with Roy's relatives, friends and band mates. Roy was an incredible talent who never achieved much recognition from the general public. This book gave me a much better understanding of what he was all about. Guitar players will want to read this book. So will anyone else who wants to get a good idea of what life was like on the road for a touring professional musician from the late 50's through the late 80's.
Rating:
Summary: The Soul of Roy
Review: This is not only a great rock biography, but a great biography period. Though most "rock stars" seek the spotlight, Roy avoided it. Yet Carson has managed to get closer to who he was than most bio writers get to their subjects, who give the public a persona but hide themselves more cleverly than R. B. This book is of interest to Roy fans, rock or country guitar afficianados, anyone interested in the early history of white rock and roll and anyone interested in exploring the world of a conflicted genius. Carson spends important time describing the early days of Buchanan in small town California. This is much more than the usual cursory treatment, for the seeds of who he became were rooted there. Carson makes few judgements, and lets Roy's friends and fellow players provide much of the insight. In many ways a sad story, but not maudlin. Although you wish it could have turned out differently, maybe it could not have. Buchanan was a man who had a chance at what we call everything, and turned it down to play his own music his own way. Was he a tragic figure or a hero? Read this book and decide for yourself.
Rating:
Summary: The Soul of Roy
Review: This is not only a great rock biography, but a great biography period. Though most "rock stars" seek the spotlight, Roy avoided it. Yet Carson has managed to get closer to who he was than most bio writers get to their subjects, who give the public a persona but hide themselves more cleverly than R. B. This book is of interest to Roy fans, rock or country guitar afficianados, anyone interested in the early history of white rock and roll and anyone interested in exploring the world of a conflicted genius. Carson spends important time describing the early days of Buchanan in small town California. This is much more than the usual cursory treatment, for the seeds of who he became were rooted there. Carson makes few judgements, and lets Roy's friends and fellow players provide much of the insight. In many ways a sad story, but not maudlin. Although you wish it could have turned out differently, maybe it could not have. Buchanan was a man who had a chance at what we call everything, and turned it down to play his own music his own way. Was he a tragic figure or a hero? Read this book and decide for yourself.
Rating:
Summary: Great guitarist,Great Book
Review: This was a great read from start to finish, I always loved Roy's playing & heard some of the stories about him. I thought I would read this book & like it but was not prepared to be this blown away,the author Phil Carson knew Roy personally & just gives such insight into this unique man, who after reading this turned out to be nothing like I thought he would be. He basically lived to play his guitar & even though I get the feeling he loved his family I do not think he could have lived any other life. Not much more to say but you should read this book & listen to his music,a 1 of a kind person & a 1 of a kind guitar player. We all miss you Roy. Thanks Phil for writing such a great book!!!!!!!!1
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