I treated myself to this book a while ago, and since buying it it has rarely left my side. The scope of information, and the sheer knowledge shown by Colin Larkin is astounding - where else could you find out just about everything you need to know - in concise form - about Bob Marley, then turn the page and see the same care and attention given to Marmalade (who started life as Dean Ford and The Gaylords, I kid you not!)
Packed within its 1600 pages - this is no small tome! - are facts and little nuggets of info to make any serious pop/rock/reggae/dance...etc fan hearts glow, and the honest rating of just about every major album released by the artists is a boom to knowing exactly which album is the best representation of any given artists music.
It also helps that the writing itself is clear and intellegent, no muso speak or gushing fan nonsense here, just good, concise prose that gives it to you stright, no chaser!
Serious about music, then this is the book for you. Go on, save up and treat yourself, you know it makes sense!