Sonic Boom

Interesting book for music fans, especially those of a certain age.

Although the book says it's about the rise of Warner Brothers Records, it's really about Mo Ostin, the longtime head of the company. The author was able to get the usually tight lipped Ostin to discuss his past, and the through line of the story runs parallel with Mr. Ostin's rise through the ranks. The heavy focus of the book is the 60's and 70's. Much of the 80's (Madonna, Prince (who grew to hate his record company) and REM get relatively short shift.

The author introduces a number of people who were early and/or central figures in the rise of Warner Brothers Records, but their storylines are abandoned. I was forced to hit Google to see what became of several of these individuals. An additional chapter or two tying off those stories and careers would have been helpful.

Carlin is a good writer - I've read his books on Simon, Springsteen and McCartney. The Springsteen book may have been the best one of the lot, but is unfortunately largely forgotten now that Bruce wrote his beast of an autobiography. Carlin's work here is solid - he can move between music criticism, business jargon, and biography with ease.

Recommended for music fans who wonder who the people were on the label or the liner notes of their favorite 70's albums. Other casual fans may want to pass this one by.