The Strange Sound of Cthulhu: Music Inspired by the Writings of H.P. Lovecraft (Music Street Journal 2006) by Gary Hill

H.P. Lovecraft's website bio asserts that he is "probably best known as a writer of weird fiction, but some believe his voluminous correspondence to be his greatest accomplishment."  Gary Hill, owner and publisher of e-zine Music Street Journal, can be compared in more than a few ways to Lovecraft. He is a prolific writer of music reviews, has been inspired by a love of fantastic stories, and is well-known for his relentless correspondence with his writers and friends, (via email, of course).

Now Hill has joined the legion of writers who have been inspired by the famous fantasy and horror writer H.P. Lovecraft with his new book The Strange Sound of

Cthulhu: Music Inspired by the Writings of H.P. Lovecraft.

The Strange Sound of Cthulhu is fourteen chapters devoted to Lovecraft's cult-like following of musicians. Hill's book is a fascinating look at Lovecraft's works and the various songs and albums inspired by those writings.

Written in essay style, Hill begins with a brief biography of Lovecraft's short, bizarre life and his literary influences. He follows with a description of the letter writing game Lovecraft and his contemporaries invented, that of referring to one another's fictional characters, places and themes and adding details from their own imaginations.

Hill then establishes his main topic, that of Lovecraft's influence on music. References to the scant appearance of music in the author's works and quotes from H.P.'s letters negate any serious interest in music on the author's part. However, Hill shows how those few references have spawned a massive body of musical work.

The Strange Sound of Cthulhu demonstrates how performers from across the world use various genres of rock to relate to the fantasy world created by Lovecraft. Hill divulges the reasoning behind the musicians' frightening themes, shocking monikers and horrific song titles: As literary devices applied in a modern medium. 

Hill reveals how eager readers of classic literature become enamored of magical worlds, and through music, carry on the mystical journeys and keep epic heroes alive through their music.

The Strange Sound of Cthulhu will serve as an excellent handbook for fantasy fans, music lovers, and Lovecraft followers for many generations.

You may purchase a copy of the book at: www.lulu.com/strangesound.