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Summary: Possibly the best book yet on George Harrison
Review: THE MUSIC OF GEORGE HARRISON takes a truly unique approach to understand one of the most miss understood Wilburys and gentlest of the Fab Four. Simon Leng presents a fun read that delves into the extra ordinary song writing talents of the mystical one. Simon takes you on a journey that whisks you through the much written about Beatles years and ensconces you on a Wonderwall adventure that does not let up until you get your Horse To The Water. He takes you on tour with Hari and lends insight that is interesting, informative, and fun. Simon gets you into the studio to link up Harrison with many of the top musicians of the day. In addition Klaus Voormann adds a few wonderful George sketches to top off the book. Don't miss reading THE MUSIC OF GEORGE HARRISON.
Rating:
Summary: The Writing's On The Wall...This book is a must read
Review: THE MUSIC OF GEORGE HARRISON takes a truly unique approach to understand one of the most miss understood Wilburys and gentlest of the Fab Four. Simon Leng presents a fun read that delves into the extra ordinary song writing talents of the mystical one. Simon takes you on a journey that whisks you through the much written about Beatles years and ensconces you on a Wonderwall adventure that does not let up until you get your Horse To The Water. He takes you on tour with Hari and lends insight that is interesting, informative, and fun. Simon gets you into the studio to link up Harrison with many of the top musicians of the day. In addition Klaus Voormann adds a few wonderful George sketches to top off the book. Don't miss reading THE MUSIC OF GEORGE HARRISON.
Rating:
Summary: Try Some, Buy Some - I Want to Tell You to Buy this Book!
Review: This book is truly a masterpiece and will delight all readers, from the inveterate George Harrison fans to people just becoming familiar with his works. Leng has a real flair for written expression and research. His extensive knowledge of Eastern music and how Harrison incorporated Eastern styles into his music enrich this work. Leng offers extensive coverage to people who influenced the late guitarist such as Klaus Voorman, an artist who had known George since the inception of the Beatles and who later drew the 1966 album cover for "Revolver," pianist John Barhman and Ravi Shankar, the man who taught George to play the sitar. Leng plainly respects the intelligence of his readers and his writing is clear, clean and crisp. There is no extraneous matter. Leng has a gift for piquing the interest and curiosity of readers. In reading this, one wants to know more about John Barham and the other people who influenced George Harrison. Leng's work is expansive; he excites interest and curiosity in an almost "ripple" effect form; each person named in his book "interlocks" in the way they influenced George Harrison. It is this approach that maintains readers' interest. Leng has researched his information well and his respect for George and the many people who influenced him and his art comes through plainly in this work. I like the way Leng accepts and acknowledges George, warts and all and the musical analysis he provides in this work. The writing's on the wall - try some, buy some and please try and buy this book! This is a superior work!
Rating:
Summary: Long overdue comprehensive assessment of Harrison's work
Review: This insightful song-by-song analysis of George Harrison's solo output is preceded in the book by several excellent essays covering the years 1966-70 including, of course, Harrison's work with The Beatles. Author Simon Leng uses his deep knowledge of music to demonstrate how Harrison assimalated an eclectic variety of musical genres to craft a distinctive and highly influential style of his own. Though not a biography, the book does explore elements of Harrison's life as they relate to his music. A must-have for anyone seriously interested in understanding the musical accomplishments of this sorely underrated musician.
Rating:
Summary: Very sensitive treatment
Review: When I received this book, I was mildly interested, having been a Beatle fan in my youth. I had not really followed the career of George Harrison post-Beatles, though I was aware of his bigger hits, and enjoyed his music. I had the generally accepted view that Harrison was a bit eccentric, reclusive, and mysterious. I was, therefore, not an intense Harrison fan, and not very educated about his music. Having now finished the book, I feel so much more informed. Simon Leng writes excellently about George's music and what was driving it, as well as it's importance in Harrison's life and faith. Simon has been meticulous in his research, and sensitive in his discussion of a private and passionate man. Though he has far more musical knowledge than I, I found the book easy to read, and fascinating in it's detail about every song written or recorded by Harrison in his solo career. So much so, in fact, that I am off to buy a George Harrison album or two! Thanks, Simon.
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