An invaluable
guide to the current UK psychedelic music scene, Chris William's book covers
over 200 of the countries bands. The book is made more interesting by the
strong opinions made by the author. Lets face it, the last thing we wanted
was another essay by another psychedelic anorak which would make as interesting
reading as a railway timetable. Chris is not afraid to give even his favourite
bands a slagging for (in his opinion) a poor recording, and this was the
subject of many heated debates around campfires at festivals this summer.
It is good to see the inclusion of the likes of Astralasia, Banco De Gaia,
Timeshard and Dreadzone, whose psychedelic nature is ignored by more Luddite
members of the psychedelic press apparently because it is electronically
(or computer) produced. It's a wonder some of these guys like electric
guitars! The book's biggest omission for me is the non-inclusion of any
of the British 80's free festival reggae inspired acts (the likes of RDF,
Culture Shock and The Rhythmites do not warrant a mention). Still, I guess
the line has to be drawn somewhere on such a (mind) expansive subject and,
as I said earlier, it is precisely the fact that Chris has been honest
and not sycophantic with his opinions that make the book such a gem. Beautifully
packaged with many black and white and colour pictures and containing information
and contact addresses for just about anyone whose anyone in the field,
this book is an absolute must for all psychedelia lovers everywhere.
(£19.50 + post &
packing).
Further information: Borderline
Promotions, PO Box 3819, Glasgow, G43 1UT
Kev
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