| Walter Kolosky | |
|---|---|
| Forums name: | WalterK |
| Directory category: | Critic / Writer / Publisher |
| Organization/Affiliation: | |
| User since: | February 9, 2008 |
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I have written a couple of books about jazz. My latest is “Power, Passion and Beauty: The Story of the Legendary Mahavishnu Orchestra- the greatest band that ever was.”
“Power, Passion and Beauty” was a finalist for the 2007 ARSC award for “Excellence in Historical Recorded Sound Research.” “The ARSC Awards typically recognize histories, discographies, or biographies representing the “Best Research” in these recording genres: Blues or Gospel Music; Classical Music; Country Music; Folk or Ethnic Music; Jazz; Popular Music; Rock, Rhythm & Blues, or Soul; and Spoken Word.”
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BOOK REVIEWS:
“If you really want to know where the fusion thing began, read this. John McLaughlin and his Mahavishnu Orchestra was at the very center of this genre and Power, Passion and Beauty is at the very center of that history”. – Steven Rosen for Curled-up with a Good Book … March 2008
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.”
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MUSICIANS SPEAK:
“I am very happy about this book. Walter’s heart is in the right place and he is a very good writer.” – Mahavishnu founder and guitarist John McLaughlin.
“I read it straight through. It really allowed me to see things from other peoples’ perspectives. It made me feel very proud of all that we had accomplished. Walter’s book really captures the spirit of the whole thing.” – Mahavishnu Keyboardist Jan Hammer
“Power, Passion and Beauty tells it like it was. I was there and I should know.” – Mahavishnu Violinist Jerry Goodman
”...a most enjoyable read, Walter knows more about the MO than I do and I was the bass player! If you were a MO fan, you’ve got to read this book.” – Mahavishnu Bassist Rick Laird
“Ring, ring, ring the bells for the new hot book about the Mahavishnu Orchestra! It is the truthful and captivating story about Musical Geniuses who have not been touched to this very Day.” – Mahavishnu II Drummer Narada Michael Walden
“Walter’s Mahavishnu book is just amazing!!!! There is SO much information (much of which I didn’t know!), and just an incredible accounting of the history of this band. For me personally, it’s great to see how our Mahavishnu Band fit into the entire picture. From reading, I am learning so much new information- about John, his music, his contemporaries, and my peers. I highly recommend this to any music enthusiast, and I believe it will certainly rank as a definitive work!” – Danny Gottlieb from the 1980’s Mahavishnu.
“I read the book in one day. I loved it! They are giants…all of them!” – Steve Lukather
”...a very fine book.” – Steve Khan
“I read your book – Power, Passion & Beauty cover to cover on my flight to NYC a few days ago! I loved it. I learned more than I have ever known about Mahavishnu. I especially liked how you approached each section/movement of your book – like the way the MO would approach a tune. Very artistic, sir!” – Guitarist Lindsey Boullt.
Website www.myspace.com/mahavishnubook
