Thomas M. Kitts

Being a life and critical appreciation of the great songwriter. Each chapter begins with a chronological account of Davies and the Kinks and ends with a critical analysis of their songs of the period, together with songs from other periods which he feels reflect similar themes. I was happy to see that he takes their rock musical period of the mid-1970's seriously, unlike most critics, who dismiss them. Thus, his attention to their 80's and 90's albums, which I've always assumed were horrible, made me wonder whether I've missed something. I enjoyed his list of his favorite Davies songs and Kinks albums at the end.… (altro)

An elaborate biography on one of the most influental songwriters in pop history, Ray Davies of The Kinks. Though written out of a fan's perspective, Kitts manages to stay focused on facts or reasonable comments. The work does not include any interview with Ray Davies himself but quotes him and his (former) companions and entartains with diverting anecdotes. It is as well an entertaining biography on Ray Davies as it is an insightful study of his, and The Kink's, work from the early sixties until 2006. A strong recommendation for anyone who would like to know more about Beat, Rock, Hard Rock, British Invasion, Rock Operas, Concept Albums, Britpop and - last but not least - The Kinks.

(Please excuse my poor English)… (altro)