Any Old Way You Choose It: Rock and Other Pop Music 1967-1973

by Robert Christgau

An invaluable compendium showcasing a new sub-genre of writing not yet contained by the established boundaries of journalism or criticism.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0140037624
• ISBN13: 9780140037623
• Release Date: November 1973
• Publisher: Penguin Books
• Length: 352 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 7.0" x 5.0"

Customer Reviews

Too Long Out of Print

This review is based on the original printing of this book, which came out in 1973. I don't know how long it's been out of print since then, but it was too long. The articles reprinted herein cover the late 60s to mid-70s, beginning with the Monterey Pop Festival and finishing with the New York Dolls, with the Beatles, Dylan, Elvis, Chuck Berry, The Byrds, The Rolling Stones, Joni Mitchell, Alice Cooper, Stevie Wonder and many many others in between. These were some of Christgau's first rock writings, back when he was still developing his singular style, and as such might make this book a little easier introduction to someone encountering him for the first time. Christgau's been accused of being overly academic and big-word-loving, which is only true about a third of the time and which I personally don't mind. I'm one of the sorts who doesn't mind working a little for their pleasure, and if I have to reread a passage (or hit the dictionary) I'm more than happy to do so - like rewatching a favorite Kubrick or Lynch film, I get something new each time. Of course, he ain't for everybody. I've trusted him to make the majority of my record-buying decisions for over 15 years now and he's never disappointed me, but you might be another story. I'd recommend that if you have any curiosity about the fella you should check out his monthly Consumer Guide column in the Village Voice to see if your tastes are in the same ballpark. Or, if you're one of those truly enlightened folks who like great writing even if they don't always disagree with the opinions expressed, I'd definitely say give this book a try.