Book description
Translated by Jonathan ReederWhen Stalin came to power, making music in Russia became dangerous. Composers now had to create work that served the socialist state, and all artistic production was scrutinized for potential subversion.In The Sound of Utopia, Michel Krielaars vividly depicts Soviet musicians and composers struggling to create art in a climate of risk, suspicion and fear. Some successfully toed the ideological line, diluting their work in the process; others ended up facing the Gulag or even death. While some, like Sergei Prokofiev, achieved lasting fame, others were consigned to oblivion, their work still hard to find.As Krielaars traces the twists and turns of these artists' fortunes, he paints a fascinating and disturbing portrait of the absurdity of Soviet musical life - and of the people who crafted sublime melodies under the darkest circumstances.
Sweetness
I can't get enough of this app's intuitive design and user-friendly interface. I'm amazed at how effortlessly this app has made reading a constant in my life.
Father Abbot
The variety of narrators adds a unique touch to each book, making every experience special. Language courses on audiobooks helped me pick up a new language effortlessly. With ListenBook, I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. The quick access to chapters and controls makes the app a joy to use. I'm always in control. The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a fantastic bonus. It keeps me entertained during long drives.
Runway Darling
The customer support is amazing. They responded to my query within hours. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Essex
The quality of the audio is top-notch, making the experience truly immersive. ListenBook has given me the gift of time – turning daily tasks into moments of inspiration. ListenBook's attention to detail in design and functionality sets it apart from other audiobook apps. As someone who listens to audiobooks daily, I can confidently say ListenBook is the best player out there. The sleep timer and auto-rewind features are lifesavers, and the sound quality is exceptional. Thank you for such a great app!
Cougar Fuzz
Listening to audiobooks has become my guilt-free indulgence, and I love it. ListenBook's variety of ways to download audio makes it incredibly convenient. ListenBook's compatibility with multiple downloading methods ensures there's always a way to get my content. I've found my new favorite narrator! Their voice was perfectly suited to this material, with just the right blend of authority and approachability. The production quality was broadcast-level - no distracting breaths, clicks, or inconsistent volume. Already looking for more of their work.
Helmet Destroyer
🎉 This app has ignited my passion for reading – I can't get enough of its convenience! 📚🔥 The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple.
Hex Panther
🎧 Making housework more enjoyable – audiobooks turn mundane chores into moments of discovery. 🧹📚 ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that my audiobook collection is always accessible. The speed adjustment feature is my secret weapon for studying complex materials.
DreamWeaver
🚶♂️🌟 Strolling through captivating narratives has never been easier – this app's intuitive controls make audiobook listening a delight. 🎧🏞️ Perfect for listening to educational materials. Highly efficient and useful. ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks a breeze. The smooth playback and intuitive interface are unmatched. ListenBook’s support for Apple Watch is a great touch. I can control my audiobooks on the go.
Sprinkle Lovenuts
This app is my travel companion – making long journeys enjoyable and insightful. ListenBook has become my go-to app for all things audio – from lectures to speeches, it's got it all. With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my workouts and downtime more engaging and insightful. ListenBook has breathed new life into my audiobook collection. I can't imagine using anything else. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Slacker Cat
Looping playback is a valuable study tool. It helps me grasp complex content and retain information. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
ButterQuest
I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's intuitive and user-friendly design. With this app, I'm rediscovering the joy of reading in the most convenient way. 💪 Achieving double wins – workouts become invigorating with stories to fuel my motivation! 💪🎧 The intuitive chapter navigation and quick access to controls make my audiobook experience seamless. Easy access to chapters and silky-smooth playback. Love it!
QuestQuill
ListenBook's library organization and book groups make managing my collection effortless. Automatic metadata extraction keeps my library organized. It's a time-saver! ListenBook Pro takes things up a notch with unlimited audiobook length. It's a game-changer! Auto-rewind feature is a lifesaver. I never lose my place!
Howitzer Rise
The app's interface is sleek and modern, making it a joy to use. The ability to highlight passages and take notes while listening is a fantastic feature. I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. My study sessions are more efficient than ever, thanks to the looping playback and bookmark features.
VileHero
Unwinding with a good audiobook has become my favorite self-care ritual. This app has turned my daily routine into a source of excitement and joy. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. It's like getting a clear, immersive listening experience. I'm amazed by the extensive statistics tracking. It's fascinating to see my listening habits. WiFi downloads save a lot of time. Great feature!
The Final Judgement
This app has become my loyal companion during travels and relaxation times. The compatibility with Apple Watch is a game-changer. Controlling my audiobooks from my wrist is genius. ListenBook has elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. It's a treasure trove of knowledge.
Skittle Mine
ListenBook's audio filters and controls have turned my listening into a personalized experience. This app's user-friendly interface has made reading on-the-go a breeze. ListenBook has elevated my learning experience. I'm retaining more information than ever. The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a fantastic bonus. It keeps me entertained during long drives.
Wildcat Talent
I'm thrilled to finally have a way to enjoy books while keeping up with my busy schedule. ListenBook's audio filters and controls have revolutionized the way I enjoy my audio content. The range of supported formats is astounding. No more compatibility issues!
StorySculptor
ListenBook has brought a whole new level of convenience and enjoyment to my audiobook experience. Chapters make it so easy to pick up where I left off. No more hunting around. ListenBook has redefined my workout routine. The controls are so user-friendly. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while exercising.
Sultan of Speed
This app isn't just a tool, it's a wellspring of inspiration and positive vibes. 🎶 Forget background music, I've got enchanting stories to accompany my chores! 🎵📚 Audiobooks have become my constant companions, and this app's seamless functionality and diverse compatibility ensure that every tale is a captivating journey. 🌌🎧 I can't get enough of the binaural audio processing. It's like a breath of fresh air for my ears. Decent audiobook but I think I would have enjoyed reading it more. Some of the more subtle humor didn't quite land in the audio format.
Wiccan Thunder
I love that ListenBook Pro allows me to customize the tone of the sound – it adds a personal touch. Audiobook enjoyment has never been this convenient. This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and enjoyable. 📚👌 I love the cloud integration. I can access my books from anywhere.
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