MARTIN POPOFF – PINK FLOYD AND THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON: 50 YEARS
QUARTO
BOOK REVIEW BY GERROD HARRIS
Canadian author Martin Popoff continues to examine the cultural significance of the classic rock era with his latest book, Pink Floyd And The Dark Side Of The Moon: 50 Years. Unlike most of his recent works which focused on an entire band’s career, often in an album-by-album fashion, Popoff has chosen to focus on, arguably, Pink Floyd’s greatest achievement, their 1973 opus, The Dark Side Of The Moon.
Upon opening your copy, readers will be faced with an absolutely stunning slipcase that plays with the original refracting prism design through its use of a psychedelic holographic effect that changes colour in the sunlight. Immediately, Pink Floyd And The Dark Side Of The Moon is a stunning book, something that is only furthered when flipping through its pages. Popoff has delivered a true coffee table book experience full of photos of the band, artwork, and vintage posters, merch, and gear to recreate the post ‘60s era within the pages.
Through his writing, Popoff is effectively able to capture the importance that The Dark Side Of The Moon played within Pink Floyd’s own trajectory, along with that of the endlessly growing culture of rock ‘n’ roll in the 1970s. Through examining the gear and symbolism behind the lyrics, the music, and the artwork, Popoff weaves together a strong analysis of the record. While his work would have greatly benefited from looking at more of the songwriting behind each track, Popoff is able to dig deep into the cultural significance of The Dark Side Of The Moon, even half a century later.
Pink Floyd And The Dark Side Of The Moon: 50 Years is the strongest book to come from Popoff that I’ve read in some time. By limiting his focus to a single album, Popoff is able to thoroughly explore the many things that made Pink Floyd and The Dark Side Of The Moon so special in the first place rather than skimming over elements to make room for the next record. Pink Floyd And The Dark Side Of The Moon: 50 Years is a must have for fans of the band and those looking to relive the excitement surrounding Pink Floyd at that time, plus, it will make for a beautiful addition to your shelf.