Hermes, Will

With a stupendously long notes section, a more than 22-page index, chapters headed thesis-style, with the subjects covered therein, and street addresses of practically everywhere Reed went, this title is for mega-fans and those wishing they could’ve lived in New York when it was all going down.

For those enamoured of the 18th century and all things London. [Library marketing.]

Seasoned narrator Adam Verner's enthusiastic baritone jibes with the encyclopedic sweep of the text, but the lack of accompanying music is a missed opportunity. Recommended to readers in New York City and music fans generally. ["Hermes writes with scene-setting observational detail and provides contextual background to events and social movements taking place throughout New York," read the review of the Faber & Faber hc, LJ 9/15/11.—Ed.]

Hermes's chronological rather than topical approach is wide rather than deep and is sometimes daunting in its sheer recitation of personalities. Still, it is a well-written entry for the reader (and listener) to explore the musical styles and people of a fascinating era.