The Art of British Rock: 50 Years of Rock Posters, Flyers and Handbills »

From custom-designed posters for provincial ballrooms in the late ‘50s to the computer-generated images of today, rock music illustration has reflected — and influenced — crucial changes in popular visual art. With classic examples (some unseen for many years) of key styles, including pop art, psychedelic illustration, punk "do-it-yourself," and digital imaging, the book documents the stunning visual style of British rock from the era of the Beatles and Rolling Stones to the present-day art of the Arctic Monkeys, Coldplay, and the Kaiser Chiefs. The book is arranged chronologically, and by genre within chapters, with art by both uncredited artists and internationally known designers and design groups, from Michael English, The Fool, and Alan Aldridge of ‘60s fame to Hipgnosis in the ‘70s, Central Station Design and 8vo in the ‘80s, and Dtylorouge and Designers' Republic in the ‘90s. Special features in each chapter focus on a particularly influential designer relevant to the period being covered, while the introduction provides an overview of the history of rock graphic design, both in Britain and internationally.

Library Journal

London-based writer and broadcaster on pop music and culture Evans, writing with musician and designer Palmer-Edwards, here gathers art associated with British rock music from the mid-1950s to the present. Divided chronologically and arranged by designer within the various eras, the beautifully reproduced color images tell stories about the fashion and politics of their respective times, the changing environments and technologies of playing music, and the promotional milieu surrounding that industry. Although many images and designers' names will be familiar from album-cover art, Evans doesn't attempt to chronicle that design aspect, wisely concentrating instead on posters and other promotional materials while commenting succinctly on the various eras and personalities to provide important context. The contemporary examples, showing graphic creativity to be alive and well, retain a hint of nostalgia for earlier days when music and graphic design worked together in a vibrant, creative environment. VERDICT A reasonably priced, well-done, engaging volume that could easily become a standard source on the subject. Knowledgeable and informative without being stuffy, it offers plenty to love for collectors, rock fans of all ages, graphic designers, and anybody's boomer aunt.—Mark Woodhouse, Elmira Coll. Lib., NY