GatorDeb

I want to learn the difference between metal and heavy metal, punk rock and rockabilly, what emo is, etc. What is a good book to learn about the different music classifications/history behind them? Thanks!

GatorDeb

I wanted something I could take to work, since there are long periods of time where I don't do anything (and we don't have Internet access at work).

GatorDeb

I can't (prohibited). Have to do what I can with MP3 CDs but it's a pain. And I can't necessarily buy all the music I want, so I'd like to learn about the different styles (and their history) by reading first, then listening to select albums.

Hiro11

Here's some good rock history books:

If you want learn about the golden age of "alternative", I like this book:
http://www.amazon.com/Our-Band-Could.../dp/0316063797
It's very accurate and has some good interviews. Bonus points for being named after a terrific Minutemen song.

The definitive CBGB/ New York punk book is probably this one:
http://www.amazon.com/Please-Kill-Me...769907-2691940

Another great one is Lester Bang's collection:
http://www.amazon.com/Psychotic-Reac...e=UTF8&s=books
Bangs is a legend. He's the (real) guy from "Almost Famous". A great writer if a little Velvet Underground crazy.

Edit, one more:

The Trouser Press Record Guide is basically indespensible in covering obscure bands from the 1960s through the mid ninties:
http://www.amazon.com/Trouser-Press-...e=UTF8&s=books

Basically, just start listening to lots of music and see what you like.

GuessWho

print up wikipedia pages and take them to work

here's a start:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heavy_metal

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glam_rock

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grunge

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternative_music

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emo_%28music%29