Mickey Hart, percussionist for the Grateful Dead, tells the compelling tale of his quest to unlock the power, myths, and legends of percussion. Complemented by more than 90 photographs and illustrations. It is a compelling, panoramic adventure into a vibrant living tradition of myth, power, and magic. Black-and-white photographs and illustrations.
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Book Description
Editorial Reviews
From Library Journal
The percussionist for the Grateful Dead is so New Age in his persuasions that his book comes with a "tree clause": two trees will be planted for every one used in its manufacture. His spell-binding drumming stories come from his studies and travels and his consultation with anthropologists, ethnomusicologists, and students of mythology, Joseph Campbell among them. His personal commentary on how percussion is "used" both in music and in the wider culture in a variety of world settings seems only to miss female drumming traditions (in Korea, for example). Visually, the book is a knockout, with a vibrant cover, 90 well-chosen illustrations (some in color), and excellent layout. Even the paperback is a permanent book, with good paper and a stiffer-than-usual cover. The annotated bibliography is a plus. Recommended. See below for the collected lyrics of Dead lyricist Robert Hunter.--Ed.
- Bonnie Jo Dopp, Dist . of Columbia P.L.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
- Bonnie Jo Dopp, Dist . of Columbia P.L.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
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Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
26 of 27 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
At a glance, Drumming at the Edge of Magic may seem like an autobiogrphical journey by the Grateful Dead's Mickey Hart. While the book is autobiographical, it goes far beyond that to discover the real meaning of drumming and music in general.
The meaning of drumming (or life?) comes in many forms, and many disguises. As Hart begins to unluck the secrets to why humans desire to express themselves in music, one can't help but say, "YES!". Hart, and to a certain extent, Jay Stevens, put into words what drummers and other musicians have felt all along but have never known how to express. The journey ends up being a look inward; not just for Hart but for the reader as well.
After reading this, I had my wife and father read it. I explained, "This is how I feel about drumming."
The companion CD and sequel book, "Planet Drum," are nice additions but the book stands by its self as an outstanding source for understanding music at its most basic form.
This book will move you.
17 of 17 people found the following review helpful
By Denny Riley
Format:Paperback
When I decided to take up hand percussion, I sought out this work out of respect for the authors' musicianship, and his ongoing projects with the Smithsonian Institute and the Library of Congress. This book led me quickly past the idea of playing drums, and into areas which effect us spiritually, emotionally, and even physically. I've read it twice, and will read it again--and again until I REALLY understand it all. If World Music interests you, if you are a drummer, or if you are seeking inner peace, this book belongs in your hands.
20 of 21 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
I'd lost interest in playing for about 5 years before I read this book, but Mickey Hart's book brought me back to the reasons I started hitting the bottom of tin cans woth a wooden spoon! This book follows, to a degree, the history of drums, and studies the emotional, spiritual and physical effects of drums, old ancient, and new on people. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes to play for any or no reason, and to andone who can't explain why the music makes them dance.
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Drumming at the Edge of Magic
Many years ago I was taking a Masters-level communications class at Wayne State University in Detroit. Read more
Published 1 month ago by Bev Eckman-Onyskow
4.0 out of 5 stars
As a drummer and peer of Mickey-
Loved the adventure of finding the edge of drumming as music and drumming as spirit. I place this a a good read! Not transforming but thoughtful.
Published 2 months ago by Jim Neill
5.0 out of 5 stars
Surprising Mickey Hart
Fascinating as when I first read it - knoweldgable and puts the thought that all rock musicians are dumbheads (sorry) out of your head, (again sorry). Read more
Published 5 months ago by Kathryn Murdock
3.0 out of 5 stars
An Autobiography
To be clear, this is primarily a book about the life and times of Mickey Hart. It's too pretentious to say it's a journey into the Spirit of Percussion. Read more
Published 12 months ago by Douglas D Panzer
5.0 out of 5 stars
Intriguing!
I had to purchase this book for a world music class that I am taking. Not only was I excited to read a book written by an amazing drummer from one of my favorite bands, but I was... Read more
Published 20 months ago by Robbie A.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Here I go again!
I've owned at least a dozen copies of this book across the course of the years. I've read it as many times, finding new thoughts and feelings exposed within me each time. Read more
Published 24 months ago by 1972Rickenbacker4001
5.0 out of 5 stars
Good Read
This is a great book if you can find it. Lots of history. His next book Planet Drum is just a picture book, and a repeat of what was in last book.
Published on May 9, 2011 by G. Gray
5.0 out of 5 stars
One of few books about drums and drumming...
I am a drummer. My main focus of interest is jazz. I am also an avid academic reader. One thing that is obvious is the lack of dedicated books on the subject of drums and drumming,... Read more
Published on May 20, 2010 by Magnus Nordén
5.0 out of 5 stars
drumming at the edge of magic
it was recieved in a very timely manner - no complaints at all and in fact I would gladly do business with this vendor again!
Published on September 9, 2005 by pen name
5.0 out of 5 stars
Incredible book
I am not a Deadhead, nor am I a drummer, but I have really admired this book, and Mickey Hart big time. Read more
Published on May 19, 2002 by BENJAMIN MILER
Citations (learn more)
This book cites 39
books:
See all 39 books this book cites
- The Way of the Animal Powers (The Historical Atlas of World Mythology, Vol. 1) by Joseph Campbell on page 42, page 70, and Back Matter
- The Language of the Goddess by Marija Gimbutas on page 73, Back Matter (1), and Back Matter (2)
- Dictionary Of Music And Musicians (9 Volumes)) (Music Book Index) by Sir George Grove in Back Matter (1), Back Matter (2), and Back Matter (3)
- Percussion Instruments and Their History (World) (Fourth Revised Edition) by James Blades on page 9, and Back Matter
- The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians (20 Volume Set) by Stanley Sadie in Back Matter (1), and Back Matter (2)
See all 39 books this book cites
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