Bøker av Geoffrey Feakes

Released in 1977 during the height of disco fever and punk rock, Bat Out of Hell is an ambitious debut album that bucked the trend and confounded critics. With the help of several hit singles, it struck a chord with record buyers and became one of the best-selling albums of all time. Benefitting from a combination of catchy melodies, anthemic rock, dazzling musicianship, inventive choral work and audacious narratives, the songs have a universal appeal that has stood the test of time. The memorable hooks and high production values also signposted the power ballads and arena rock style of the 1980s. This book examines the individual songs that make up Bat Out of Hell, along with the album's conception, recording, reception, subsequent tour, and legacy. It also traces the backstory of its creators, Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf, and their work - together and apart - that followed in the album's wake. This includes two successors, released in 1993 and 2006 respectively, and Bat Out of Hell: The Musical which premiered in 2017.

Keyboard wizard Rick Wakeman is one of the most talented and influential musicians and composers to have graced the world of popular music.

1973 was the year when the progressive rock reached maturity and public acceptance. Many of the key bands of the era - including Yes, Jethro Tull and Pink Floyd - were amongst the biggest selling artists of the year worldwide. Covers 20 of the key albums of the year.

Guitarist Steve Hackett first came to many fan's attention when he joined Genesis in 1971. Following seven excellent albums with the band, he went his own way in 1977. He had already kick started his solo career with the critically acclaimed Voyage of the Acolyte in 1975 but 24 studio albums followed.