'a clear, well-researched and entertaining volume' -Matthew Hilton, English Historical Review'Nott should be congratulated for a work that runs from the comedy of George Fornby, the mnusicals of Jessie Andrews, the swing of Benny Goodman, and the star status of dance band leaders such as Jack Hylton, Henry Hall, and Jack Payne. This is a fine scholarly monograph and the author demonstrates a clarity of expression throughout. Such a comprehensive account of inter-war commercial music deserves a long shelf life among studies of twentieth-century popular culture.' -Matthew Hilton, English Historical Review'This academic but readable book will fascinate the enthusiast and social historian alike. for those seriously interested in the analysis of popular music it is a must.' -Journal Into Melody'Different aspects of popular music are analysed in an academic but readable manner.' -This EnglandThis lively and readable study explores popular music between the wars, the era of Noel Coward and Ivor Novello, Gracie Fields and George Formby. James J.

Nott tells the story from the days of the jazz mania of the 1920s to the outbreak of the Second World War. He examines the huge popularity of dance halls such as the fabled Hammersmith Palais, and concludes with a fascinating checklist of the most popular songs.