New Book Dives into Detroit’s Musical and Social Journey since the 1960s

Joe Molloy’s latest book, titled Acid Detroit: A Psychedelic Story of Motor City Music, takes readers on a captivating journey through the musical and social history of Detroit, starting from the 1960s and extending onwards. In this technicolour narrative, Molloy sheds light on a pivotal era when California dominated the spotlight, offering readers a mind-expanding exploration of Detroit’s lost possibilities, hidden potentials, and rich histories.

Inspired by the concept of ‘acid communism’ introduced by Mark Fisher, Acid Detroit delves into the vibrant tapestry of the Motor City, showcasing its unrivaled contributions as a hub of radical activism, urban unrest, and sonic innovation. From the raw energy of garage rock to the pulsating beats of techno and the lyrical flow of hip-hop, the book encapsulates the diverse sounds that emerged from this dynamic city.

If you’re intrigued, you can grab a copy of Acid Detroit: A Psychedelic Story of Motor City Music from Repeater books, immersing yourself in Molloy’s comprehensive exploration of Detroit’s musical legacy.

Within its pages, you’ll discover fascinating insights into the impact of Drexciya’s iconic track ‘The Quest’ on dance music history, as it weaves the mythology of this Detroit act into the fabric of the genre. Additionally, you’ll uncover the hidden gem of Urban Tribe’s ‘The Collapse Of Modern Culture,’ a masterpiece of Detroit futurism that has remained relatively under the radar.

In a conversation from the previous year, Ria Hylton had the opportunity to speak with DJ Ash Lauryn, a Detroit-born artist currently based in Atlanta. They discussed Lauryn’s dedication to representing a soulful, classic house sound in her sets and her commitment to preserving and bringing forth the Black roots of electronic music through her Underground & Black project.

The intersection of music, culture, and activism comes alive in Acid Detroit: A Psychedelic Story of Motor City Music, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the captivating narrative of Detroit’s musical evolution and its profound impact on society.