"BIG STAR ' Isolated In The Light" is a unique document of the band's career that will be published on the 11th November as a hardback limited edition of 1000 numbered books, via First Third Books. Two options are available ' a standard version of 500 copies retailing at £40 and a 'special' edition of 500 copies which will include a previously unpublished signed and numbered 10"x7.5" print from Michael O'Brien and 2 posters retailing at £75.
This authorized limited edition book showcases images from photographers who chronicled both Big Star's beginnings during the burgeoning 1970's Memphis music scene and later solo projects of songwriters Alex Chilton and Chris Bell in both New York and Europe. In "Big Star ' Isolated In The Light" they share their unique visual perspective along with memories of a band that went on to influence several generations of musicians. The book also features new interviews and the band's original handwritten letters and lyrics.
The publication coincides with the 50th Anniversary of Ardent Studios, the Memphis independent label and recording studio that became ground zero for all of Big Star's recordings. The book pays tribute to Ardent founder John Fry, their mentor, producer and engineer extraordinaire.
First Third Books presents "BIG STAR ' Isolated In The Light", the first extensive photo monograph of the 1970's cult band, BIG STAR.
Over 200 colour and black and white photographs by illustrious names in the Fine Art and Rock Photography world such as William Eggleston, Michael O'Brien, Maude Schuyler Clay, Carole Manning, David Bell, John Fry, David Godis, Stephanie Chernikowski,... and historic images from the vaults of Ardent Archives. All photos are lovingly re-scanned and restored from original negatives, transparencies and prints.
Exclusive new interviews with select photographers as well as drummer Jody Stephens, the remaining member of Big Star and David Bell, the brother of guitarist Chris Bell.
An introduction by Bob Mehr, author of "Trouble Boys, The True Story Of The Replacements," an authority on Big Star and contributor to the Big Star career retrospective box set, "Keep An Eye On The Sky".
Interviews and commentary by Ivo Watts ' Russell, Founder of 4AD and producer of This Mortal Coil, whose innovative cover versions of Big Star songs helped to introduce them to a new generation of listeners. Simon Raymonde ' current director of Bella Union, formerly of the Cocteau Twins, and participating This Mortal Coil, singers Kim Deal of The Breeders & Pixies, Cinder of Cindytalk and Dominic Appleton of Breathless.
Previews are available at www.firstthirdbooks.com
Advance orders now being taken at www.firstthirdbooks.com
First Third Books:
With offices in London and Paris, First Third Books is an independent publisher of quality photo books on alternative music and subcultural life. Previous collaborations include volumes on Punk+ (Sheila Rock's photos of the early
London punk scene), FELT, Genesis Breyer P-Orridge, Saint Etienne, Marc Almond and the RAMONES. First Third are working on three high profile releases for 2017.
