2007 ARSC Award finalist for "Excellence in
Historical Recorded Sound Research.
Starting in 1971 and lasting in one form or another for five years, the
Mahavishnu Orchestra exploded onto the popular music scene while
simultaneously trashing all existing conventions, forging a new
direction that is still controversial to this day. The loudest and
fastest band in the entire world, the MO literally could 'scare' people -
yet also could create music of great beauty. All five members of the
original band: John McLaughlin, Billy Cobham, Jan Hammer, Jerry Goodman
and Rick Laird cooperated with the author. In addition, over 100 people,
including some of the world's greatest musicians and artists, provide
comments exclusive to this book. Among those commenting for the book are
Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny, Jeff Beck, Sir George Martin, Jean-Luc
Ponty, Peter Max, Joe Zawinul, Bill Frisell, Dennis Chambers, Bill
Bruford, Peter Erskine, Jimmy Herring, Jonas Hellborg, Mark Egan, John
Scofield, Steve Lukather, Lyle Mays, Steve Morse, Joey DeFrancesco,
Narada Michael Walden and many, many more.
Allaboutjazz's John Kelman said, "...the
Mahavishnu Orchestra's importance in the history of not only jazz, but
music in general, cannot be underestimated or overlooked. Power, Passion and Beauty: The Story of the Legendary Mahavishnu Orchestra
will ensure that those unfortunates who missed the emergence of the
Mahavishnu Orchestra can live vicariously through the clearly
articulated experiences of the many people who contribute to what is,
ultimately, a terrific story beautifully told"
Stuart Nicholson for
Jazzwise magazine says, "...I enjoyed this book. It's a good read and
communicates the real significance of one of jazz's great ensembles."
Bloomberg News' Paul Goguen (Host of Bloomberg Muse) says Power, Passion and Beauty, "...is skillfully researched and assembled from the band's formation to
its demise. It is a must read for any Mahavishnu or music fan."
Colin Harper of Mojo Magazine writes: "...definitively researched -
and page-turning account - from conception to destruction to a kind of
resurrection. Forget about punk: this is 403 chords and the truth."
The Boston Phoenix says that Power, Passion and Beauty is, "an entertaining ride."
