By: Marcos Rios
I first came into contact with Walter Kolosky writings when I reviewed his book “Follow Your Heart: John McLaughlin Song by Song.” After reading that book for the first time, I felt Kolosky’s undeniable love for the Mahavishnu Orchestra’s music.
My most recent read by Kolosky is the 2013 special-edition eBook “Power, Passion and Beauty: The Story of the Legendary Mahavishnu Orchestra,” which coincidentally is being released with the 40th anniversary of the Mahavishnu Orchestra.
Kolosky’s new re-release of the special edition book includes new interviews, memories from different artists, an extra chapter that was not in the original book, as well as an in-depth gig list and many other updates to the Mahavishnu Orchestra story.
Kolosky has assembled a beautiful story, in which readers, musician and non-musicians alike, will feel inspired to fall in love with the Mahavishnu Orchestra, as if they were hearing the group for the first time.
For many fans, the Mahavishnu Orchestra is hailed as a band that changed the course of music history by influencing multiple genres of music from jazz to rock to odd meter riff-based bands. In Kolosky inspiring piece of work, the author takes us through the journey of the Mahavishnu Orchestra from each of the band members humble beginnings, to their unity as a band until their breakup, and beyond.
I really enjoyed reading this book, mostly because it is not solely told from the Author’s point of view, but also by the original members of the band, helping to reinforce every part of the story. This is one of the first times that I have found a biography of an ensemble that is so accurate in it’s story line as well as being a captivating read from start to finish.
Because Kolosky delves into every aspect of the band’s life, concerts and even the clothing the band performed; it clearly grabs the reader and puts us in the time period and environment from which the band grew their musical legacy.
As well, the way Kolosky organizes the book is very organic and provides the reader with a very easy and enjoyable read. The book begins with mini-biographies of each of the artists that performed with Mahavishnu Orchestra, including before they even met themselves; giving us background and a foundation from which to build upon as readers.
Kolosky has written a completely accurate depiction of one of the most important bands from the fusion era, one that changed the course of music along their incredible journey. “Power, Passion and Beauty” is a must read for every music lover of any genre and style.
