I am often frustrated by how little credit the engineer is given when a CD turns out well. On the other hand, it always seems to be the engineer's fault if the record doesn't "sound good". Audio engineers wield great power in the studio and really do contribute to the overall sonic quality and success of any recording project. That is why I was so intrigued when I saw a book with the subtitle "a first-hand history of popular music from the world's greatest record producers and engineers". Had someone finally decided to give audio engineers their due? The book starts with the forward written by Brian Wilson, and his perspective and wisdom on the subject of recording popular music are worthy of an entire book themselves. The rest of the book is a series of 58 interviews including Sam Phillips, Bob Thiele, Sir George Martin, Glyn Johns, Tony Visconti, Quincy Jones, Don Was and many others. Since I wasn't truly interested in reading about the genius of Bananarama (Did every producer who survived the eighties work with that band? You might think so after reading this book.) I found myself skimming over particular interviews that held little of interest for me personally. For the majority of the book my interest held strong and I found a great deal that I could identify with and learn from. My only other comment about the book is that the author decided to edit down the interviews into monologue form. It makes the interviewees seem as if they are rambling on, bragging about their many accomplishments. The questions in an interview provide context, giving the reader important clues to the attitude and tone of the conversation. Keep that in mind as you read. (Spike)