What’s That Sound?: An Introduction to Rock and Its History provides a comprehensive and authoritative exploration of the evolution of rock music, from its roots in the early twentieth century to the present day. Written by renowned musicologists John Covach and Andrew Flory, this fifth edition maintains a focus on the music itself, utilizing detailed listening guides to help readers analyze the formal structures and stylistic elements of iconic tracks. The text balances chronological narrative with thematic analysis, examining the cultural, social, and technological forces that have shaped the genre.
This edition continues to offer an in-depth look at the diverse landscape of rock, covering everything from the rise of the singer-songwriter and the explosion of the British Invasion to the development of punk, heavy metal, and hip-hop’s influence on rock aesthetics. By emphasizing active listening and historical context, the authors provide a foundational understanding of how rock music has both reflected and influenced global culture over the decades.
Book Details:
- Title: What’s That Sound?: An Introduction to Rock and Its History
- Author: John Covach, Andrew Flory
- Edition: 5th Edition
- Publisher: W. W. Norton & Co Inc
- Publication Date: June 11, 2018
- ISBN-10: 0393624145
- ISBN-13: 978-0393624144
