Tom Perchard was born in 1976. He received his doctorate from the University of London, and he teaches at Goldsmiths College and the University of Westminster. He is a regular contributor to The Wire magazine. This is his first book.
'Perchard's descriptions of Morgan's playing are both technically astute and accessible, but the real strength of this book lies in its awareness of contexts. He has spoken to an impressive number of people who knew Morgan or shared his background. The whole trajectory [of Morgan's life] ... is handled with impressive confidence. It's cliched praise, but my first act on finishing the book was to dig out a slew of old Blue Notes.'Brian Morton, The Wire'Through a wealth of research and incisive anecdote from his band members and close associates, Morgan emerges as an intriguing, multi-layered figure. [A] very accomplished biography...'Kevin Le Gendre, The Independent on Sunday'...an excellent musical biography' Mike Hobart, FT Magazine'The publication that best filled a gap this year'Sholto Byrnes, Independent on Sunday