In the '70s Dennis Altman was a founding figure of gay liberation. Now more restrained than radical, the Australian author and activist recounts the past and present of sexual politics in his new book, Unrequited Love.
New Orleans' two great Louis, Armstrong and Prima, were formed by their hometown and its culture; though both left the city, it never left them or their music. They were both artists and entertainers, gifted musicians, and unabashed crowd-pleasers.
The beloved character Salvo Montalbano, like its author, the late Sicilian novelist Andrea Camilleri ("il padre di Montalbano"), can be brusque and ornery, but he has a strong ethical code and passionate commitment to justice.
Ironically, James Sullivan's liberalism is fundamental to what's wrong with Which Side Are You On?: 20th Century American History in 100 Protest Songs.
The Paris-based trio Delgres connects the Mississippi Delta, the Caribbean, and New Orleans on their debut album, Mo Jodi.
On Chicago Plays the Stones, ten Chicago-based blues artists remake a dozen Rolling Stones compositions, with mixed results.
Ry Cooder's first album in six years exchanges pointed political commentary for spiritual songs of comfort and consolation.
Bettye Lavette's new album offers supremely soulful renditions of 12 Bob Dylan songs.
Gay carnival culture in New Orleans offers an interesting parallel to African American culture, observes Unveiling the Muse.
China Miéville's October is a gripping, novelistic account of the Russian Revolution that offers the pleasures and rewards of a great novel.
