This 5-volume reference presents essays on 608 20th-century musicians and composers in all genres, with the classical cellist Pablo Casals followed by Johnny Cash, for example, or Art Tatum followed by Sir John Tavener, making this an enjoyable work for browsing. Artists are included from all countries, though the vast majority are from the U.S. and the U.K. Blues, jazz, pop, and rock are particularly well-represented. Each entry offers a list of the artist's principal works, a short biography, and a bibliography. The bulk of each entry is devoted to the consideration, in chronological succession, of the artist's main works. The entries are both knowledgeable and written in an engaging style as they assess the style of the music, its origins and influences, and its place in the artist's oeuvre. Many b&w photos of the artists are included. Volume 5 contains several indexes: by category, geography, and personages and groups. Cramer teaches music at Pomona College, California. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)