Fossils

Back in the day, record labels didn't have a network of blogs, artist websites, and social media to help market new music. They only had FM radio, cash 'payola' to DJs and, if the budget allowed, advertisements in a handful of music rags like Creem, Trouser Press, and Rolling Stone to help provide hype for a new release. Much like album cover artwork, advertisements created for new album releases were often works of art in themselves. Creative record label graphic designers often came up with ads that cleverly promoted the artist and their work; just as often, corporate hacks cranked out copy with little or no relation to the album being promoted. With Fossils, award-winning rock critic and music historian Rev. Keith A. Gordon takes a look at these "relics," album advertisements found in frayed and graying copies of cherished old music magazines. Offering insightful and informative commentary on nearly four-dozen ads, the 'Reverend of Rock 'n' Roll' explores this overlooked artistic aspect of the classic rock era.