Generation Ecstasy: Into the World of Techno and Rave Culture

by Simon Reynolds
Generation Ecstasy: Into the World of Techno and Rave Culture cover
Good Books rating 4.2
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 9624
  • Added: 2026-01-01
  • Updated: 2026-01-01
  • ISBN: 9781136783166
  • Publisher: Routledge
  • Published: 2013-06-19
  • Reviews: 3

Generation Ecstasy offers an immersive journey into the world of rave culture and electronic dance music, guided by Simon Reynolds, an insider who has experienced the highs and lows of the scene. This definitive chronicle captures the essence of the movement, exploring its music, its people, and its quest for euphoria through the perfect beat. Reynolds' firsthand account provides a unique perspective on the cultural and social impact of rave, making it a compelling read for both enthusiasts and those curious about this vibrant subculture. /n/n The book is not just a historical account but a celebration of the rave ethos, delving into the music's evolution and the communal experiences that define it. Reynolds' writing is both informative and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a generation in search of ecstasy through sound and movement. Whether you're a seasoned raver or new to the scene, Generation Ecstasy offers a captivating exploration of a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2026-01-01
comprehensive 4.10

This book takes the reader on a guided tour of the end-of-the-millennium rave phenomenon, telling the story of rave culture and its impact on music and society. It's a comprehensive and insightful look at a significant cultural movement.

For anyone interested in the cultural and musical impact of rave and techno, this book is a must-read. It offers a detailed and engaging account of the rise of electronic dance music, providing context and insights that are both informative and entertaining. The author's passion for the subject is evident, making it a compelling read for both those who lived through the era and those who are discovering it for the first time. The book's ability to capture the spirit and energy of the rave scene is one of its greatest strengths.

Quick quotes

    In Generation Ecstasy, Simon Reynolds takes the reader on a guided tour of this end-of-the-millennium phenomenon.

    It's a comprehensive and insightful look at a significant cultural movement.

    The author's passion for the subject is evident, making it a compelling read.

The Storygraph · 2026-01-01
fun 4.00

This book is a fun and surprisingly quick read that offers an exhaustive personal history of the rave era. It's a great guidebook to early EDM, capturing the roots and evolution of the genre.

Reading this book feels like taking a nostalgic trip down memory lane, especially if you're familiar with the music and culture it describes. The author's personal insights and the way they weave in references to songs and artists make it a lively and engaging read. It's not just a history lesson but a celebration of the music and the community that defined an era. The first few chapters set the stage with a straightforward history, but as the narrative progresses, it becomes a more intimate and detailed exploration of the rave scene.

Quick quotes

    This was a really fun and surprisingly quick read.

    It's a guidebook to early EDM: the roots of the genre.

    An exhaustive personal history of the rave era.

In Sheep's Clothing Hifi · 2022-03-28
essential 4.50

This book is an essential addition to any music lover's library, providing a comprehensive look at the birth and rise of electronic dance music. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the cultural and musical impact of rave and techno.

If you're a fan of electronic music or curious about the rave culture of the late 20th century, this book is a treasure trove. It's not just a historical account but a passionate exploration of the music, the scenes, and the people who shaped this era. The author's deep knowledge and enthusiasm for the subject shine through, making it an engaging and informative read. Whether you're looking to relive the past or understand the roots of modern EDM, this book offers a vivid and insightful journey.

Quick quotes

    An essential addition to every music lover's library, 'Generation Ecstasy' remains the best book about the birth and rise of electronic dance music.

    The book provides a comprehensive look at the cultural and musical impact of rave and techno.

    It's a must-read for anyone interested in the cultural and musical impact of rave and techno.

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