The book serves as an important link between Jewish Studies and Cultural Studies, providing valuable insights for critics and scholars in both disciplines. It addresses themes of identity and multiculturalism, making it essential reading for those exploring these contemporary issues.
Exploring the genre of Britpop, this volume argues that it emerged as a celebration of Englishness amidst the challenges to English cultural dominance during the 1990s. Contributors provide a fresh perspective, suggesting that Britpop was not merely a reaction to grunge but a significant cultural phenomenon reflecting the political and cultural shifts of the era. The book situates Britpop within the broader context of the last fifty years, examining the evolving definitions of British and English identity during a time of devolution and cultural transformation.
Focusing on the evolution of black British popular music, this collection explores its rich history from 1940s jazz to contemporary genres like Dubstep and Grime. It highlights key moments and intersections with issues of race, class, multiculturalism, gender, and sexuality. Additionally, the book engages with the impact of media and technology on these musical developments, providing a comprehensive scholarly analysis of the cultural significance and political context surrounding this vibrant musical landscape.
Focusing on the evolution of race and ethnicity in post-multicultural Australia, this book delves into the historical context of the Australian state and the influence of neoliberalism. It explores Perth's nightlife in the 1980s to illustrate the dynamics of diversity and exclusion. Additionally, it examines the role of Christianity in shaping multicultural limits, particularly regarding the Muslim community. Through analyses of films, music, and television, the book highlights the exclusion faced by non-white groups, offering a comprehensive view of contemporary societal challenges.
The book delves into the transformative evolution of dance from the 1960s to the 1980s, highlighting significant shifts while also identifying enduring elements. It examines the transition from the discipline of ballroom dancing to the liberating experience of rave culture. Additionally, it charts the progression in music from beat groups to electronic dance music, and explores the shift from traditional youth culture to the emergence of club culture, offering insights into how these changes shaped social interactions and expressions of identity.
Crossing British and European Racial Faultlines, 1945-2010
Exploring the idea of 'song careers', Jon Stratton examines how songs are reinterpreted by various artists across different cultural contexts. He highlights the transformation of music as it navigates racial divides that emerged after World War II, influenced by the migration of formerly colonized peoples to their colonizers' countries. This analysis appeals to scholars of popular music, cultural studies, and race, showcasing the dynamic interplay between music and social change.
Focusing on the racialized identity of Jews in popular music across America, Britain, and Australia, Jon Stratton's work employs case studies to analyze the unique and varying contexts of the music industries in these regions. He investigates how societal perceptions of Jews influenced their musical contributions, emphasizing race as a cultural construct. By engaging with existing discussions in Jewish Studies, the book offers a critical examination of the interplay between Jews, race, and popular music, revealing the complexities of representation and stereotyping.
"Critically examines the Hunters and Collectors album Human Frailty, setting it in its cultural and historical context"--