Flyboy 2: The Greg Tate Reader

Few writers possess critic and author (Flyboy in the Buttermilk; Midnight Lightning) Tate's skill in combining critical thought with poetic writing, and that ability is on fine display in this collection of his writings from the past three decades. The work is divided into five sections, with the two main segments dealing with male and female musicians and other cultural contributors. The entries range from an exploration of hip-hop done in a song format from that same genre to an outstanding and concise review of the life and music of Jimi Hendrix to a heartfelt obituary tribute to comedian and performer Richard Pryor. What all of the writings share, though, is a particular rhythm, and it's easy to imagine Tate speaking the words with the same relaxed cadence that comes through in his prose. Tate has been an important if underread critic for the past several decades, and this collection will allow more readers to discover him.