Too Darn Hot

Dive into the vibrant and complex world of easy listening music with Bob Stanley’s “Too Darn Hot,” a captivating hardcover published by Faber & Faber in 2020. This isn’t just a history of elevator music; it’s a meticulously researched and passionately written exploration of a genre often dismissed but deeply influential, revealing its surprisingly rich cultural and artistic significance. Bob Stanley, renowned music journalist, author of “Yeah Yeah Yeah: The Story of Modern Pop,” and member of the pop group Saint Etienne, brings his characteristic wit, encyclopedic knowledge, and insightful perspective to uncover the hidden stories behind the smooth sounds that permeated the 20th century. “Too Darn Hot” challenges preconceived notions and elevates easy listening to its rightful place in the musical landscape. From its origins in the dance bands of the 1920s and ’30s to its explosion in popularity during the post-war boom, Stanley charts the evolution of easy listening, tracing its influence through film scores, television themes, and the ubiquitous Muzak that soundtracked daily life. He introduces us to the key figures who shaped the genre: visionaries like Mantovani, whose cascading strings defined the sound of easy listening, and arrangers like Percy Faith, whose lush orchestrations became synonymous with sophistication and relaxation. But “Too Darn Hot” doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker aspects of easy listening’s appeal. Stanley delves into the genre’s connection to social control, its use in creating consumerist environments, and its sometimes-problematic association with blandness and conformity. Beyond the well-known names, Stanley shines a light on the unsung heroes and surprising subgenres of easy listening. Expect insights into the world of space-age pop, exotic lounge music, and the influence of Latin rhythms on the genre. He uncovers the surprising connections between easy listening and avant-garde music, and challenges the boundaries of what we consider “serious” art. With 512 pages packed with fascinating anecdotes, insightful analysis, and a wealth of musical references, “Too Darn Hot” is an essential read for music lovers, cultural historians, and anyone interested in the hidden stories behind the soundtrack of modern life. It’s a celebration of the unexpected artistry and enduring appeal of a genre that’s far more complex and compelling than you might think. Prepare to have your ears opened and your perceptions challenged!