Karaoke Around The World (Routledge Research in Cultural and Media Studies)

As a whole, Karaoke Around the World provides an interesting look at karaoke from a number of perspectives. The juxtaposition of writers provides an interesting cross-cultural comparison of karaoke, looking at Japan, Italy, Sweden, the UK, Japanese communities abroad, and a number of East Asian cultures as well.The topics examined cover a wide range (socialization, cultural exchange, technology, etc.), but there is definitely an emphasis on karaoke as a cultural practice.As is the tendency of such collections, some chapters shine while others leave a bit to be desired. Still, the volume is a worthwhile purchase for anyone interested in karaoke scholarship.Highlights:*Toru Mitsui- The Genesis of Karaoke: How the Combination of Technology and Music Evolved*Johan Fornas- Filling Voids Along the Byway: Identification and Interpretation in the Swedish Forms of Karaoke*Casey Man Kong Lum- The Karaoke Dilemma: On the Interaction Between Collectivism and Individualism in the Karaoke SpaceA particular low point is Hiroshi Ogawa's chapter. While an interesting point of examination (karaoke's effects on the Japanese music culture and industry), the presentation falls short. I would venture to say that the chapter is a translation, and that therein lies the source of stylistic flaws (although I am uncertain if that's the case).