John Robb’s The Art of Darkness (Manchester University Press) is the first comprehensive history of Goth music and culture, a 500+ page tome exploring the origins and legacy of this enduring scene.
Thu 6 Jun, 6pm – 8pm
Drawing on his experience as a musician and journalist, Robb explores the style, music, clubs, politics and social conditions that typified the early years of goth culture. He also reaches back to key historic events and movements that frame gothic ideas – from the fall of Rome to European folk tales – and considers the current mainstream of goth influencers and culture.
The Art of Darkness offers a first-hand account of the legendary gigs and clubs that made the scene happen, alongside interviews with The Banshees, The Cure, The Damned, Nick Cave, Southern Death Cult, Einstürzende Neubauten, Bauhaus, Killing Joke, Throbbing Gristle, Trent Reznor, Johnny Marr and many more.
They’re’re delighted to welcome John to the bookshop to discuss this landmark work with local legend Roger Hill, a freelance director, performer, writer, lecturer, storyteller and broadcaster. For more than 35 years Roger hosted the Popular Music Show on BBC Radio Merseyside, the UK’s longest running alternative music programme. Roger has been a champion of culture and a regular fixture on the arts scene since his time at the Liverpool Everyman Theatre in the 1980s, working on notable projects with LIPA, Bluecoat and Tate.
Tickets: £5