Craig Fenton’s “Take Me to a Circus Tent” isn’t just another Jefferson Airplane book; it’s a meticulously crafted journey through the band’s history, music, and legacy. As a skeptic, I approached the book with caution, but the overwhelmingly positive reviews, including high praise from founding member Marty Balin, piqued my interest.
Balin’s quote on the back cover, “Craig Fenton knows so much about the Jefferson Airplane and Family, I was asking him the questions,” set a high bar. Fenton delivers. The book’s cover features Herb Greene’s iconic photograph from the “Surrealistic Pillow” album, a welcome sight after years of seeing the image reduced on CD covers.
“Take Me to a Circus Tent” spans over 540 pages, packed with information without feeling cluttered. Fenton delves into various aspects of the Jefferson Airplane, starting with a comprehensive chronicle of over 120 live performances. He meticulously documents the songs played, noting their first and last appearances, special guests, unique variations, and correcting any previous inaccuracies. He also explores the band’s studio recordings, unveiling approximately 60 unreleased tracks, alternate versions, jams, and demos. Fenton clarifies which songs faced censorship and provides insights into those that didn’t make the final cut.
Beyond the live and studio explorations, the book features over ninety photos, including rare and previously unseen images from both the Great Society (with Grace Slick) and the Jefferson Airplane, many captured by Herb Greene.
Fenton’s background as a radio disc jockey shines through in the interview section, which includes over thirty transcribed interviews with members of the Jefferson Airplane, Jefferson Starship, and other figures from the San Francisco music scene. His relaxed approach and deep knowledge create an environment for revealing previously untold stories. Readers will discover the singer who auditioned before Signe Anderson, the guitarist who accompanied her, the Hot Tuna member who contributed to a Jefferson Airplane song without credit, and the Great Society song that the Airplane initially declined to record.
The Q&A section covers the Jefferson Airplane, Jefferson Starship, Hot Tuna, SVT, KBC, and Wooden Ships, providing a wealth of information to satisfy even the most dedicated fan.
“Take Me to a Circus Tent” is a captivating and comprehensive exploration of the Jefferson Airplane, and is available on Amazon, as well as Fenton’s website and blog.