A History of Jazz in Britain 1919-1950 was the first truly comprehensive
survey of this phenomenon from a British perspective. Despite the
increase in literature since it was first published, there is no other
book to rival it. This new edition includes additional photos and an
updated text.
It covers the American trail-blazing artists of the twenties and
thirties, their influence on British musicians, the specialist
magazines, rhythm clubs, discographers and pundits, and the fascinating
cloak-and-dagger plots to defy the Musicians' Union ban.
A wealth of conscientiously researched detail is related with the
trenchant and pithy humour for which the author is well-known.
Jim Godbolt's other books include his amusing and insightful memoir of
his career working in the music business and his time working as a meter
reader, All This and Many a Dog, also republished by Northway.
As breezy as a riverboat shuffle, ever on the lookout for the
preposterous detail and the opportunity for raffish reminiscence. Times
Literary Supplement.
Enlivened throughout by the author's passion for the music itself and
his sharp eye for human failings. - George Melly
"If you have not bought this book, I urge you to do so - now!" --
Humphrey Lyttelton, BBS Sounds of Jazz.
