I had high hopes for this book. It was expensive and I knew that was partly because it contained quite a few photographs from Henry Diltz. What I wasn't expecting was the poor writing from Harvey Kubernik and editors, if there were any. I also wasn't expecting quite so much input from Henry Diltz. As a photographer I'm not sure what he had to add to the story aside from bragging rights about how much time he spent with the musicians. I guess as a resident and celebrity he earned the space in the book. There was some information to be gained. Much of it was a long and winding tale of marijuana fueled reminiscences of times gone by. ( )

Another 5 ★ ♥ that I truly enjoyed ....*

Canyon Of Dreams(2009) is 368 pages with greater than 300 photographs and snapshots of memorabilia from the era discussed. There is an extensive index, photo credits, foreward ( the late Ray Manzurek) and afterword (Lou Adler).

Laurel Canyon sits in the Hollywood Hills (above Sunset Boulevard) and since the beginning of Hollywood, it quickly acquired its hideaway reputation.
This volume speaks of "the metamorphosis of the canyon from the very beginning concentrating on the 60's, until the 70's, when the magic of the canyon began to crumble."

The book layout is similar to a scrapbook (text, pictures, memorabilia of all types such as concert tickets, clippings of upcoming shows, interviews, quotes etc.)
The text was broken up by photos, interviews and memorable quotes.
But, if you had a mind to, the flow of the text could be easily followed.

I found it fascinating and informative as a musical history reference.
Longtime residents guide us as they reminisce of days in the Canyon.
The cast of characters includes "wordsmiths, authors, musicians, photographers, rock bands, record label owners,poets, dancers" and the list goes on......

Kubernik heralds it as "amazing stories of residents and the adventures, misadventures, artistic pursuits, parties, trysts, or some combination of all of the above."

Canyon of Dreams traces the enduring history and legacy of Laurel Canyon.

With an extensive collection of photographs of the times (some candid, some staged),
I would consider it a"must have" for anyone interested in the "old days" of 60's music....and ready for a personal tour
through an area that served a a rock music center for nearly a decade. ( )

Coffee table book: all style and no substance...

Great photos - and this book should have stopped right there. Author is annoying, very impressed with himself. Chapters are arranged by musician or band, and there is so much cross-referencing between musicians (because they were all playing at each others' homes or studios) that the book doesn't flow well. ( )

The magic and the music of Laurel Canyon