Some entries are more successful than others in fleshing out who Taylor Mac is and what Mac is trying to accomplish. Nonetheless, this eclectic, no-holds-barred exposition represents an important addition to theater and gender studies.
Though this is directed at those familiar with Metallica, there is much to ponder here, even for those those who aren’t metalheads. The spiritual, philosophical, and psychological musings will provoke debate and reward serious readers.
Will appeal to anyone interested in The Music Man or the process of bringing to life a full-fledged musical entertainment in the mid-20th century United States.
In contrast to the many useful guides to song creation that focus dryly on method, Williams’s book stands apart for its shimmering, poetic language and forthright engagement of readers, making her treatment of the subject that much more emotionally satisfying. By the end, readers will have gained valuable lessons about both songwriting and life.
Black’s own relevant musical experience, alongside his interviews with White, his family, and country music icons such as Marty Stuart, make this biography a must-read for bluegrass aficionados. Although White may not be a household name to those outside the bluegrass scene, he richly deserves this long-awaited tribute.
In all, this title makes a valuable contribution to the ever-expanding universe of works addressing science and music, two seemingly disparate fields that have surprisingly much in common.