Al Menconi, a frequent seminar speaker, has put his perspectives on contemporary Christian music into book form. He shares his journey from being a rocker to becoming a Christian and burning rock records. He writes of his frustration with the short-lived results of getting kids to burn their albums. When a new idea on how to deal with rock music came to him, he returned to the lecture circuit to implement a positive approach to music.
Menconi deals with some common accusations against rock music. One popular belief among conservative Christians is that all rockers are satanists. Another rumor says Christian rock calls up demons and is used in voodoo dances. The author has researched these claims and discloses their sources. You need not be duped by the next record-burning evangelist who uses weak arguments and strong emotion.
The book covers the history of rock and roll from its inception up to the current music scene. How adults can deal with music receives a hopeful and positive treatment rather than an antagonistic one. As a true musical expert, Menconi gives practical advice. His sharing of how he dealt with his own teenagers and their music helps make this a useful and enjoyable book.
The author uses many biblical texts, most quite well. But he does quote a few for an isolated word or two rather than their entire message. Music's effect, as opposed to the lyrics or performers, receives little treatment other than suggesting secular music affects emotions. For example, is there a difference in the music of "A Mighty Fortress" and "I Come to the Garden Alone"? Nevertheless, Menconi has written one of the best books on the market regarding the Christian's relationship to contemporary music and those who listen to it.
