A History of Jazz in Britain 1919-50 was the first truly comprehensive survey of this phenomenon from a British perspective. Despite the increase in literature since it was first published, there is no other book to rival it. This new edition includes additional photos and an updated text.
It covers the American trail-blazing artists of the twenties and thirties, their influence on British musicians, the specialist magazines, rhythm clubs, discographers and pundits, and the fascinating cloak-and-dagger plots to defy the Musicians' Union ban.
A wealth of conscientiously researched detail is related with the trenchant and pithy humour for which the author is well-known.
Jim Godbolt's other books include his amusing and insightful memoir of his career working in the music business and his time working as a meter reader, All This and Many a Dog, also republished by Northway.
299 pages including many photographs throughout.
As breezy as a riverboat shuffle, ever on the lookout for the preposterous detail and the opportunity for raffish reminiscence. Times Literary Supplement.
Enlivened throughout by the author's passion for the music itself and his sharp eye for human failings. George Melly
If you have not bought this book, I urge you to do so now! Humphrey Lyttelton, BBS Sounds of Jazz.