This book investigates the profound impact of emerging technologies on the creation, dissemination, and consumption of music during the late 20th century. David Peeperkorn, drawing on his expertise in musicology and technology, examines the technological shifts that began to redefine the music industry. The work analyzes the integration of digital tools, synthesizers, and new recording techniques, exploring how these innovations altered musical composition and performance practices. It posits that these advancements were not merely tools but fundamental forces reshaping the very nature of musical expression and its accessibility.

This work is recognized as a valuable historical account of a pivotal era in music technology. It is appreciated for its detailed examination of the technical and creative interplay that characterized the late 1980s music scene. The book offers insights into how innovations in sound synthesis and digital recording laid the groundwork for contemporary music production.