The Twang Dynasty

UK: Northdown Publishing Ltd, 2012. Like New and Signed 2012 paperback book;

Deke has a lovely style of writing which just keeps you reading and is costing me sleep! This is one guitarist's personal take on the guitarists which he admires and has met or crossed paths with one way or another. I love 70s rock so, for me, it's a lovely read. The fact that it's written by one of the Man band is just an added bonus.

The book gives an enjoyable overview of the best blues and rock guitarists including the genius Mickey Jones who has to be one of the most sadly neglected musicians ever. The pleasure of seeing Deke and Mickey in concert together in Man is not something I will never forget. Who else could make the Fforde Green Hotel in Leeds or the Breedon Bar in Birmingham seem like the centre of the universe?

The Twang Dynasty is a book for people who love guitars and the glorious noise they make, written by a musician who has lived and loved the music for 50 years. Deke Leonard reflects on the genre from within in a highly amusing and informative style that makes this an essential read. He shines a light on how and why some musicians changed the landscape forever, tracing the development of modern popular music from its fragmented roots in delta blues, country and early rock'n'roll to today's guitar-based rock. He mixes personal encounters with Hendrix and Clapton with analysis of less well known but equally important players, ending with a chapter on Welsh rock guitarists that have been particularly dear to his heart. If you own a library of guitar-related titles, we guarantee this is like no other book you own. The Twang Dynasty is compelling reading, making you want to revisit the music and embark on your own guitar odyssey. Nominated "Book of the Month" in Guitar and Bass Magazine May 2012