The tagline to this weighty volume is, “His life and music, from The Hawks and Bob Dylan to The Band.” That’s a fair synopsis. Additionally, the sleeve notes describe Manuel as a “fearless original—sweetly soulful as a vocalist and endearingly creative as a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.” That too is utterly reasonable. Lewis’ biography explores the man’s life in great detail, taking us on a musical journey that would dance with Dylan and boogie with The Band. The author’s affection for his subject shines throughout, as does his painstaking and meticulous research. Lovely stuff, all told.
(Hardcover) $35
