Not bad for a book that, as a friend commented, features a cover that is, in its striking plainness and simplicity in design, reminiscent of a gravestone (good job no one should ever judge a book by its cover then eh?).ĭavid’s discussion on his latest work took place in 3 different places over 3 days, starting in London, going on to Manchester and finishing in Glasgow on the 26th. David Byrne former Talking Head, renowned artist and, as of late, captivating and insightful social commentator, is here to discuss themes and issues that appear in his latest work ‘How Music Works’, a book that, in a proverbial nut-shell, proposes several fascinating theories and includes comprehensive research on the broad subject area that is Music and its creation.Īmongst other topics, the book touches upon the function of music, its conception and the sometimes hidden motivation and factors at play behind creating music, as well as being littered with delightful anecdotes spanning David’s 30 year career in the music industry including at one point his long-awaited surrender of the inspiration behind that notorious ‘Big Suit’.

But then again it is not often I find myself in a room with David Byrne either who tonight found himself at Curzon Cinema, Chelsea, throwing out these aforementioned bizarre scenarios to a captivated audience.Īlthough I can’t answer the question “how did he get here” exactly (and although judging by his recent output ‘Bicycle Diaries’ it would be safe to assume that some of the journey was most likely made on transport of the two wheeled variety!) I can tell you why he was here. Also I certainly can’t say I often consider penning a song that spans the entire 24hour period of one’s day. Soph Lord was in the audience for the evening & below she reports back for us on what sounded like a fascinating event.Īs a musician, It is not often I find myself pondering the possibilities of incorporating the sound of rustling crisp packets into my work, nor is it often I contemplate the ability of music to transport the listener to other worlds beyond their reach. On the first date in London he was joined by the genius that is Matthew Herbert & the audience were asked to ponder on such subjects as “Do we need any more music”. David Byrne in Conversation: How Music Works.ĭavid Byrne recently came to the UK on a three leg tour promoting his new book, How Music Works.

How music works review