[ebooks] Ultimate Predators In The Wild: Children's Animal Books by Speedy Publishing at Arts-Photography

Review

22 of 23 people found the following review helpful. Itch-scratcher for Fervent Zep Fans ...By DACHokieLaughably maligned by critics for most of its active career; a revision of Greek mythology may now include a 13th slot for the band on Mount Olympus as they are arguably the Zeus of rock and roll music (sorry Elvis; you had the mojo and the hip-swing; but didnt bring the lightning and thunder). While Zeppelins career may have been relatively short-lived; it still managed to burn an indelible; mysterious mark in modern music history that is largely kept alive by its introverted; immensely talented and equally mysterious mastermind; Jimmy Page. Tabloid-like tell-alls aside; LIGHT AND SHADE gives Page a platform to speak somewhat openly about his musical life before; during and after Zeppelin ... a satisfyingly light meal for fans; but few others.Guitar World magazines Editor-in-Chief; Brad Tolinski; provides a books worth of material that mainly includes transcriptions of his interviews with Page over the years. Straight-forward and somewhat narrow in scope; Page doesnt reveal too much more that is already known or widely speculated. LIGHT AND SHADE is organized in chronological chapters that chart significant periods in the musicians life. The chapters open with the authors summary of the period being discussed and are supported with Q and A transcriptions that allow Page to elaborate. The interviews are fairly safe and it appears clear that Tolinski took great care in avoiding issues that may have irritated Page or made him defensive. LIGHT AND SHADE is obviously a book written by a fan; for fans. But; considering Jimmy Pages reclusive/guarded nature; I cant fault Tolinski as he got the man to speak rather openly about his musical career (not to mention Tolinski surely wants to ensure future Page interviews). So; the Q and A involves a lot of softball questions that are safely aimed in the direction Page wants them to go. The only "out-of-bounds" topic approached was the discussion of Pages interest in the occult; but the manner in which the interview is conducted appears quite contrived and more of a platform for Page to put the "stories" to rest under his own direction (as it consumes a complete chapter). Pages mysterious aura is obviously enhanced by his speculated association/interest in the occult and while many could care less about this part of the mans life (like me); there are those who do take interest; thus covering the topic is probably needed to validate the book.Most of LIGHT AND SHADE is dedicated to music and while Page yearns to be known for his entire body of work (from Yardbirds to the Firm and even his collaboration with David Coverdale) it is hard to avoid the elephant in the room ... Led Zeppelin. The conversations about Zeppelin obviously dominate the conversations and Tolinski effectively puts his musical knowledge to use and gets Page to openly delve into the mechanics of the bands sound and production. The interviews convey the enormous sense of pride Jimmy Page has for the band; the quality of music it generated and its place in history. This is an aspect of the book that should shine for those who are musicians and not just casual fans of the bands catalogue of songs. While I enjoyed these parts of the book the most; many of the Zeppelin-themed discussions are more back-and-forth "technobabble" (specific chords; effects; production techniques; etc.) between two knowledgeable people that might not be too interesting (or understandable) to others. Page does not elaborate too much on his drug use; nor does he gush about (or refute) the raucous tales of touring that have contributed to the bands legacy ... its mostly about the music. Some chapters are enhanced with interviews of others who have collaborated with Page over the years (Jeff Beck; Paul Rogers of Bad Company and the White Stripes Jack White) and there are sections that specifically address the guitarists equipment (a plus for fans who are musicians); his ten "best" songs and even his style (elaborate discussion on the astrological symbolism of Pages stage attire).I found LIGHT AND SHADE to be relevant from the perspective that I am a guitar player and Jimmy Pages music has shaped that way I approach the guitar; from playing technique to effects. While the book sheds some light on the man behind the music and his years after Zeppelin; it is best served to others like me or rabid fans eager to consume any product associated with Led Zeppelin.29 of 30 people found the following review helpful. Collection of interviewsBy aaron groganThis was a good read. As a serious Jimmy Page fan; I have read all of these interviews in Guitar World Magazine over the years; but its nice to have them in a collection. Sadly; cant give it 5 stars because its just music interviews. Until Mr Page decides that more than 2500 people need to know his story; we wont get the real truth. Jimmy only has one authorized biography - the 2500 copy variety - but until we get more; this one will do as a wonderful collection of information on his music. Sadly; not much is mentioned of in through the out door era. Highlites include an interview with Paul Rodgers about The Firm; and Jimmy talking extensively about Zeppelins current projects (remasters and DVD)1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Great insight into all the Zeppelin songsBy GrahamgolfGreat insight to the songs and the technical aspects of the recordings. All the details on the guitars and the tunings... not the groupies and the debauchery Not juicy or gossipy. Read one of the other Zeppelin bios if you are interested in those tales. If you want to know where "When the Levee Breaks" was recorded and how they got that big drum sound; this is the book for you.Jimmy Page is a musical savant. Amazing how much effort went into those songs.