Books: Encyclopedia Walking: Pop Culture and the Alchemy Of Rock ‘n’ Roll, by Jon Kanis

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Despite the title, Encyclopedia Walking: Pop Culture and the Alchemy Of Rock ‘n’ Roll is not your run-of-the-mill encyclopedia. Authored by singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer, disc jockey and journalist Jon Kanis, who is clearly the perfect candidate to conceive such a project, the book constitutes as both a love letter and observations regarding music and film that have moved, motivated, and even mystified the San Diego, California-based artist.

Endowed with a remarkable comprehension of the featured subjects, as well as an overwhelming passion, Jon slings a personal slant onto the pages rather than simply profiling or reviewing the topics. Dwelling in the same category as illustrious scribes like Greil Marcus, Lester Bangs and Dave Marsh, Jon pens meditations that inspire the reader and call for reaction and action.

A broad range of folks are covered, from John Lennon to Kiss, from Jeff Buckley to Rush, from Gerry Goffin to Tom Petty, from Ravi Shankar to Elton John, from Jimi Hendrix to Roger Waters, from the Beach Boys to George Harrison to Robyn Hitchcock and Joe Boyd, along with musings on beatniks and Stax Records. Awash with fresh perspectives, the writing is interesting, intelligent, and intimate. Jon’s heart rests in all the right places, prompting the audience to become a believer and participant.

Jon says Encyclopedia Walking: Pop Culture and the Alchemy Of Rock ‘n’ Roll (available October 9, 2014 via Eyes of Da Vinci) is a reminder to count our blessings, which are infinite. Words of wisdom, indeed. And how grateful we should be for this excellent book celebrating and championing the liberating aspects of audio and visual entertainment.

There’s much to recommend here, making Encyclopedia Walking: Pop Culture and the Alchemy Of Rock ‘n’ Roll a must-have purchase for those professing a yen for not only good music, but literature tempering depth with fun and frolic. So slap on the soundtrack of your choice, grab a comfortable seat, kick back, and dig in! Enjoy the view.

Beverly Paterson