Fun read
While I’ve always liked certain songs and albums by the Talking Heads I was never a huge fan but this recently published book written by head Talking Head David Byrne is an interesting and enjoyable jaunt through many musings on the subject of music.

This book covers a lot of ground, from before when music was first recorded (in the mid to late 1800’s) to the many changes in technology that have occurred since then in the way music is created, recorded and listened to. His take on the changing paradigm of the music industry from the old way of artist signing contracts with big record labels to the new DIY/indie model is worth checking out. Lot of stories here from his own career as they relate to each chapter’s topic. For example I’ve always liked the recordings he made with Brian Eno so it was great to get some more insight into that.

Topics covered include being in the recording studio, collaborations, the shaping of music by technology (both analog and digital), the business and finances of music and creating a music scene sprinkled throughout with thoughts and anecdotes related to the subject at hand. I didn’t necessarily agree with all of his opinions but most of it is at least interesting.

This is not a book about the Talking Heads per se but if you are a David Byrne/Talking Heads fan or looking for a career in music or someone who’s a big fan of music and wants to know more about how it’s made, there is probably something here for you. Check it out