Ian S. Port's book "The Birth Of Loud" tells the well researched story of the birth of the electric guitar and it's impact on popular music and our culture. It's a refreshing read where Ian looks into corners seldom searched and gives some well deserving figures their time in the light. His literary device of a rivalry between Les Paul and Leo Fender frames the story well but more accurately describes the marketing and cultural forces that both figures were operating in. Leo and Les are throughly depicted as the unique Americans that they were who's influence still resonates today. It does not matter if you are a musician or someone with an interest in popular music "The Birth of Loud' will be a delightful read and add to your enjoyment of this music.