Customer Reviews

Stan Kenton: Artistry in rhythm

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

A very thorough book. Great for any Stan Kenton fan. Wonderful photographs and quotes from former band members.

While this book is definitely thorough, it is far TOO thorough. The author seems to have been unable to engage in editing. While Kenton's life is interesting, the biographical information is buried in an avalanche of verbatim news reports, press releases, concert announcements, and reviews. Was it really necessary to include the complete text of some many concert announcements, including contact telephone numbers? Do we really need full text reviews of so many concerts?

Although some of the quotes from fellow bandmembers are illuminating, it appears that William F. Lee merely wanted to talk to all former bandmembers- some of those quoted only appeared with Kenton a few times. In addition, many times Lee only lists information, providing little context; there are almost day-by-day accounts of various tours, listing personnel and pieces played. With all of this information, it is too difficult to follow the thread of the biography.

This was a gift-- and very well received. Incredibly researched and scholarly work. More of a reference work than a casual read, but a must for the Kenton or Big Band/ Swing scholar.