Book description
Fifty great writers reflect on the albums that shaped them in this captivating collection curated by the New Statesman's Tom Gatti.Our favorite albums are our most faithful companions: we listen to them hundreds of times over decades, we know them far better than any novel or film. These records don't just soundtrack our lives but work their way deep inside us, shaping our outlook and identity, forging our friendships and charting our love affairs. They become part of our story.In Long Players, fifty of our finest authors write about the albums that changed their lives, from Deborah Levy on Bowie to Daisy Johnson on Lizzo, Ben Okri on Miles Davis to David Mitchell on Joni Mitchell, Sarah Perry on Rachmaninov to Bernardine Evaristo on Sweet Honey in the Rock.Part meditation on the album form and part candid self-portrait, each of these miniature essays reveals music's power to transport the listener to a particular time and place. REM's Automatic for the People sends Olivia Laing back to first love and heartbreak, Bjork's Post resolves a crisis of faith and sexuality for a young Marlon James, while Fragile by Yes instils in George Saunders the confidence to take his own creative path. This collection is an intoxicating mix of memoir and music writing, spanning the golden age of vinyl and the streaming era, and showing how a single LP can shape a writer's mind.Featuring writing from Marlon James, Ali Smith, George Saunders, Bernardine Evaristo, Ian Rankin, Rachel Kushner, Ben Okri, Patricia Lockwood, Sarah Perry, Neil Gaiman, Tracey Thorn, Clive James, Eimear McBride, Neil Tennant, Daisy Johnson, David Mitchell, Esi Edugyan, Deborah Levy, among many others.
Landfill Max
Audiobooks have transformed my daily walks into a time of inspiration and learning. ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features are a game-changer – I can have my audiobooks ready in no time. This app has made audiobook listening an integral part of my daily routine – it's a habit I cherish. Efficiency meets audiobooks – this app's functionality is a true standout.
Marshmallow Treat
The ability to listen to books while multitasking is a game-changer for me. The app's features, like the sleep timer, make it clear that it's designed with readers in mind. ListenBook’s playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
Trash
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a fantastic way to spread the joy of audiobooks. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that makes a big difference. It enhances my listening experience. Makes listening to audiobooks so easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook!
Fire Fish
ListenBook has completely changed my audiobook experience – it's like having a personal audio library. Audiobooks on this app have made studying and learning a more enjoyable process. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Black Walnut
I'm able to catch up on my reading list even during the busiest days. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a feature I can't live without.
Stick Shift
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. ListenBook's dedication to delivering top-notch audio quality is evident in every detail. I'm grateful for this app's ability to fit seamlessly into my lifestyle, making learning a part of my day. I can't believe how much more I'm 'reading' now, thanks to this app. No need for file conversion is a game-changer. Love using ListenBook on my iPhone.
QuestWeaver
I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. I love how ListenBook caters to various formats, making it versatile and accommodating for all my audiobooks. A functional audiobook production that met basic requirements. The narrator's voice was pleasant enough to listen to for extended periods, though their performance didn't add much interpretation to the text. The audio engineering was competent without being remarkable.
Popeye Wipeout
Listening to audiobooks has become my daily ritual for relaxation and escape. I'm grateful for this app's ability to fit seamlessly into my lifestyle, making learning a part of my day. This app's intuitive features and easy navigation make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. Good for background listening. I didn’t get fully immersed, but it was pleasant enough to have on while doing chores. The narrator’s voice was easy to listen to, even if the delivery lacked some energy.
Pixie Taze
I'm addicted to the personalized recommendations – it's like the app knows me! ListenBook's support for playlists in the CUE format makes organizing and enjoying audiobook series a delightful experience. ListenBook's commitment to a seamless user experience is evident in its sleek design and intuitive controls. The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile. This audiobook made my workouts fly by! The engaging narration kept me motivated to keep listening, which meant longer gym sessions. The narrator's energy matched the material perfectly - upbeat when needed, somber when appropriate. A great example of how narration can enhance text.
Charms
ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent user experience sets a new standard in audiobook apps. ListenBook’s bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
Hoover Spark
The 'Continue Listening' feature ensures I never lose my place, no matter where I am. Bravo to the creators of this app – they've truly captured the essence of convenient audiobook enjoyment. The smooth playback and thoughtful design are a win. 📚👏 ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback features add versatility to my audiobook listening experience. I was thoroughly impressed by this audiobook. The combination of engaging content and skilled narration made my daily commute something to look forward to. The narrator's timing and intonation were spot-on, enhancing rather than distracting from the material. Definitely worth a credit!
Blue Despair
I've become a loyal fan of audiobooks, and this app is the reason why! The absence of synchronization requirements on ListenBook is a breath of fresh air. This app is my secret weapon for making the most of my free time.
Omega Sub
I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my passport to countless stories. With ListenBook, I can finally enjoy my audiobooks without worrying about format compatibility. It handles everything! My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thank you, ListenBook! The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a joy to use. Five stars!
HedgeH0g2
I'm addicted to this app's ability to seamlessly blend books into my life. Supports artwork and metadata perfectly. My library looks great! I love the bookmarking feature. ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off.
Iron Butterfly
ListenBook has completely changed my audiobook experience – it's like having a personal audio library. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a fantastic way to spread the joy. This app has transformed my screen time into valuable learning and entertainment. 🔥 Spicing up my routine with this app – it's like having a personal storyteller on hand at all times! ✨📖 Navigating audiobooks seamlessly – this app's design is top-notch.
Bae
Audiobook excellence – this app's design enhances my reading experience. I’m so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app!
TrinitySoul
ListenBook has made me fall in love with my audio content all over again – it's a must-have. With this app, reading has become an integral part of my daily routine. Navigating through my audiobook collection is a breeze – this app's intuitive interface and convenient controls have made my reading journey effortless. 📱📖 The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices. This audiobook performed its function without excelling. The narrator's delivery was straightforward and easy to follow, though lacking in dramatic flair. The recording quality was decent with only occasional minor inconsistencies in volume. An acceptable but forgettable listening experience.
Frosty
Audiobooks made delightful – this app's usability is a breath of fresh air. AirDrop and sharing make it easy to spread the audiobook love with friends.
Esquire
Savoring captivating stories has become a breeze with this app's sleek design and convenient features. It's like having a personal reading assistant! 📱📖 From novels to speeches, this app's versatility in playing different formats has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary listening sessions. 📱🔊 ListenBook Pro is totally worth it. Unlimited audiobook length – I'm in! ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve found. The interface is clean and easy to use. I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
Goatee Shield
💪 Crushing workouts while devouring books – this app makes fitness fun and educational! 🏋️♀️🎉 Streamlined audiobook integration – this app's usability is truly impressive. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for audiobook lovers. They help me keep track of important moments. Downloading over WiFi is super efficient. Saves a lot of time.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience