This unique, visually exciting look at the evolution of nightclubs
across America and Europe since the 1960s reveals an unwavering truth
about club culture--the one constant is change.
Opening with the psychedelic haunts of the 1960s New York pop art scene
and closing more than half a century later with the rise of post-club
happenings, Temporary Pleasure shows how nightlife spaces have evolved
to meet the needs of their generation, and how each generation was
seeking something a little different from the one before.
Each chapter focuses on a distinct phase and city: Italy's politically
radical clubs of the '60s; New York City's disco scene; Detroit and
Chicago's house and techno paradises; Ibiza's counterculture communal
retreats; Britain's rave culture; and Berlin's techno scene. The clubs
come to life in double-page spreads that feature specs and detailed
profiles. Author John Leo Gillen offers his take on various important
cultural, design and architectural details, while numerous photographs
offer their own vibey stories. The book features interviews with people
who were involved in a number of the scenes included, from NYC disco
mainstay DJ Justin Strauss to Ben Kelly, architect of Manchester's
legendary venue The Haçienda.
As the world emerges from its Covid-induced isolation, this celebration
of crowded rooms, dance-worthy beats, and communal transcendence feels
more important than ever.
