Ryan W. Keyser

718 pages

ISBN 978-1-4560-8342-7

 

The author, Ryan Keyser, possesses the gift of elaboration in his writing. Surfwater is an exceedingly in- depth look at the lifestyle and day to day, if not hourly lives of a band that formed in the 1970’s. The book takes you on a journey with an assemblage of women who evolve as reputable and popular musicians. However, Surfwater is more than a typical rock band read, it is an example of what women and music were capable of in an era that was largely male dominated.  This book is at times a heavy read, in that the author dives into each character with precision detail to give the reader an expansive look at how the members of the band interact the way they do, who they are, how they change and perhaps more importantly…why. We learn of their trials and tribulations along their journey into the crazy and expansive musical era that was the 1970’s and 1980’s. This was a time when music was evolving into more than country, jazz, rock and classical. An eclectic mix at best!

As with most bands, the characters experience troubles and interact in such a way that is very real if not what we expect of many a band member.  They tour, they argue, there are money troubles,  even  financial success. It sounds as if it is a typical band but when you get to know the group you see that it is anything but. These were women during a unique time in our lives when females were not as well respected especially in this format.  The author demonstrates a raw, detailed, individualistic side to each member of the group. These band members take a big chance on their music and their lives and win with their relationships and experiences.  

 

 

Terri Potts

Authors Den Book Reviewer