A book recommendation for the holidays | The Birth of Loud

Fall has arrived in Miami; temperatures actually dipped into the 60’s (oh Joy!). To the casual observer, changes between seasons can certainty be a bit more challenging to discern and, while the humidity is ever so slightly less, my go-to sign is the ever so nuanced change of hue in the light of the sun as its casts across the late afternoon sky; growing in warmth and richness as the season marches on. For it is at this magical time of day, on a lazy Autumn’s afternoon, that I would encourage one to take a break, turn off the electronics, put the guitar down, and jump into a good book. To those that would engage in such an exercise, why not enjoy a literary work, as but one simple option, that provides a greater understanding and appreciation for the musical instruments and tools we now enjoy if not take for granted, ‘The Birth of Loud’.

As to how I came upon this book, it was certainly not on my radar or something I was searching for. Rather, a relative with a shared love for music and guitars sent me a copy as a gift after stumbling upon it himself. While the first chapter or so takes a bit of time to build up some rhythm, soon after it becomes hard to put it down. As Ian Port faithfully jumps back and forth between the parallel, and sometimes intersecting paths that Les Paul and Leo Fender took as they raced towards the creation of the electric guitar, craftily woven throughout, the reader is treated to such wonderful stories of the masters musicians that help bring these instruments to life. Further, there are a few additional paths taken, discussions on recording techniques, amplifiers, and other gear, that help provide meaningful context; a more complete picture. I often found myself listening to the songs referenced, not for the first time, but now with a new appreciation for the tools and techniques used in their recording, often revolutionary for their time.

To pay this kind gift forward, I have since purchased many a copy of this book only, sending them to friends in the industry all across the country. Needless to say, it a great book and one that comes highly recommended.