"The Spiritual Significance of Music" (Book)
Reviewed by Rockstar_Scribbler on January 19, 2010
Justin St. Vincent’s new book, "The Spiritual Significance of Music," is a collection of exclusive interviews with various musicians and writers. With diversity at the center, this book explores music and spirituality, sharing insights and stories from their unique experiences.
With over one hundred entries from members of ARMORED SAINT, CANNIBAL CORPSE, DRAGONFORCE, FAITH NO MORE, GUNS N ROSES, and many others, this book first asks the question that is often overlooked, but close to the hearts of musicians: How has their religious or spiritual views affected their art? The answers are honest and often heartfelt.
A few are predictable, after all Michael Sweet (Stryper) has always worn his religion on his sleeve, so when he says “God also blesses people with abilities and talents to create, produce, or perform music” it's not Earth shattering. However, reading Alex Webster’s (Cannibal Corpse) interview you will find insight such as “I think that although the languages of the world can often do an excellent job conveying what a person is feeling, music can go places that words alone cannot.” You feel the passion of the artist; Passion, coming from the heart.
This book embraces the sensitive side to music, providing readers with a new way to look deeper into the music and give new meaning to tunes you’ve heard again and again.
Highs: A non-judgmental look at many different religious views and how they affect the artist through their music.
Lows: The interviews vary from vague to specifics, depending on the person being interviewed.
Bottom line: The Spiritual Significance of Music is a wonderful collection of positive energy and out of the box thinking toward the art of music.
