The Art of Darkness: The History of Goth

The book "The Art of Darkness" is the first comprehensive history of goth music and culture, covering the style, music, clubs, and historical events that shaped the scene. It includes interviews with influential musicians and offers a firsthand account of the gigs and clubs that made the scene happen.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 546 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This is the first comprehensive history of goth music and culture, spanning over 500 pages and delving into the origins and enduring legacy of this captivating scene. John Robb, a musician and journalist with firsthand experience, takes readers on a journey through the style, music, clubs, and political and social contexts that shaped the culture. He explores the profound influence of key historical events and movements, such as the fall of Rome, Lord Byron, romantic poets, European folk tales, Gothic art, and the occult, on the ideas of goth.

Furthermore, the book delves into the current mainstream goth, encompassing Instagram influencers, film, literature, and music. Interviews with renowned figures in the goth scene, including Andrew Eldritch, Killing Joke, Bauhaus, The Cult, The Banshees, The Damned, Einstürzende Neubauten, Johnny Marr, Trent Reznor, Adam Ant, Laibach, The Cure, Nick Cave, and many more, provide a firsthand account of the gigs and clubs that propelled the scene to prominence.

The art of darkness offers a captivating and insightful exploration of goth music and culture, providing a deep understanding of its origins, evolution, and impact on popular culture. Whether you are a seasoned goth enthusiast or a newcomer seeking to delve into this intriguing world, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the dark and mysterious aspects of music and society.

Weight: 794g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526173201