Cork Rock: From Rory Gallagher to the Sultans of Ping

2017 Edition: Mark McAvoy explores the history of Cork rock music from the rise of legendary blues-rock guitarist Rory Gallagher and his successful career on the international stage through the Finbarr Donnelly-led punk era of the 1980s to indie legends The Frank And Walters and the irrepressible Sultans Of Ping.Cork Rock: From Rory Gallagher To The Sultans Of Ping explores the records venues personalities and culture that sprang up around rock music in Irelands second city. Delving deep into the stories behind seminal Cork acts such as Taste Five Go Down To The Sea? and Microdisney this book traces the careers of many of the citys most popular and talented musicians.With exclusive photographs and extensive interviews with leading performers managers DJs and promoters Cork Rock: From Rory Gallagher To The Sultans Of Ping is essential reading for all true music fans.Mark McAvoy is a Cork-born journalist and author. He is a graduate of University College Cork and holds an MA in Public Relations from the Dublin Institute of Technology. A life-long music fan Mark has written for the Evening Echos Downtown music and entertainment supplement for more than ten years and has contributed to a range of publications including Village NME and Alternative Ulster.ReviewsItll require a feat of the loaves and fishes variety to better Mark McAvoys comprehensive take on Corks substantial contribution to rock music history. Cork Rock: From Rory Gallagher To The Sultans Of Ping is packed with facts and provocative anecdotes that weave the music into the culture of Cork and the world beyond. Youve loved the music now read the book. Jackie Hayden - Hot Press An excellent book Brian Boyd - The Irish Times Theres a hefty early focus on Rory Gallagher whos given an almost biographical going over. If youre into Cork music - or just want to learn more about it - you could hardly ask for a more quirky fact-filled and well-written guide. James Hendicott - State Magazine Cork Rock: From Rory Gallagher To The Sultans Of Ping was selected by Irish arts and culture website OMG Entertainment as one of their Best Eleven Books of 2009. A work of massive importance for Corks cultural history and a hugely enjoyable read for anyone who has gigged ligged or larked by the Lee. Des ODriscoll - Irish Examiner Cork Rock: From Rory Gallagher To The Sultans Of Ping was awarded the accolade of Hot Press Music Book of The Fortnight. By the end of this colourful and deeply respectful book a portrait of the city and the quirky talents it produces emerges giving you a new found respect for the place and its distinctive inhabitants. Irish Voice (New York City) Opens with an excellent monograph of the truly talented Rory Gallagher Tom Widger - The Sunday Tribune McAvoy vividly describes the growth and transformation of a music scene that both mirrored the trends of the time and produced a unique sound. Aliah ONeill - Irish America MagazineA definitive and highly readable guide to the rebel citys ever-evolving rock scene. David Roy - The Irish NewsAn insightful and well-written book. Highly recommended! Ken Fallon - Cluas.com