In this special event we celebrate the publication of Shock and Awe: Glam Rock and Its Legacy, the first complete history of Glam Rock by one of the most acclaimed writers of his generation, Simon Reynolds. The evening will include a conversation between Simon and writer/musician Bob Stanley plus a screening of 1972 concert film T Rex: Born to Boogie, directed by Ringo Starr.
In Shock and Awe, Simon Reynolds explores this most decadent of genres on both sides of the Atlantic. Marc Bolan, David Bowie, Roxy Music, Alice Cooper, The Sweet, Gary Glitter, New York Dolls, Sparks, Slade, Suzi Quatro, Cockney Rebel, Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, Mott The Hoople — all are represented here. Reynolds charts the retro future sounds, outrageous styles and gender-fluid sexual politics that came to define the first half of the seventies and brings it right up to date with a final chapter on glam in hip hop, Lady Gaga, and the aftershocks of David Bowie’s death.
The event will also include audience questions and a book signing.