Since Records Began: Emi : The First 100 Years

Rating:
Summary: a fascinating volume that does justice to its subject
Review: Even though the first actual records for what eventually became EMI were recorded in 1898, EMI is celebrating tis centennial based on Washington, DC-based Emile Berliner sending his scouts to Europe in 1897. EMI has already released a boxed set of 11 CDs that is not all it could have been. In fact, the "Documentary CD" has more errors than an old Mets game. The set contains nothing that hasn't already been available. "Since Records Began/ EMI: The First Hundred Years" is - to borrow a British phrase - something completely different. Peter Martland has assembled over 500 well- reproduced photos and reproductions (300 of which are color) to accompany his coherent, cohesive, and well-researched text. Even though much of EMI's early years were devoted to opera singers, this book is not just a history of the lineage from Caruso to Alagna. Martland also tells the story of the pop/jazz side of EMI from the Roaring Twenties, Judy Garland, and "Fats" Waller through the Beatles and Keith (now Sir Keith) Richard. The narrative flow is always smooth. Of course, reviews should probably have a negative point or two and this is no different. One is that this hefty volume is not recommended for bedtime reading without running the risk of bodily harm should you doze off. Another is that the book could have been twice as thick and we would still want more. A highly recommended book not only for history buffs and collectors but for all music lovers.

Rating:
Summary: Sir Cliff, not Sir Keith Richard
Review: It' s a nice thought, but Keith is not noted for singing to the Queen Mother. Cliff Richard was knighted a couple of years ago. Keith will probably have to wait in vain for his gong.