Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Heavy Metal Islam: Rock, Resistance, and the Struggle for the Soul of Islam

Heavy Metal Islam: Rock, Resistance, and the Struggle for the Soul of Islam by Mark LeVine
In Heavy Metal Islam, Mark LeVine explores the influence of Western music on the Middle East through interviews with musicians and fans, introducing us young Muslims struggling to reconcile their religion with a passion for music and a desire for change. The result is a revealing tour of contemporary Islamic culture through the evolving music scene in the Middle East and Northern Africa. Heavy Metal Islam is a surprising, wildly entertaining foray into a historically authoritarian region where music just might be the true democratizing force. Check out
Guy's LitWire post on this fascinating book. The author, Mark LeVine, has created a YouTube playlist featuring videos and concert footage from most of the bands he talks about in the book.

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