Live8 Coolpix

Live8 put the focus on poverty and social deprivation in Africa, and featured a galaxy of stars from the world of music, film, and more, in the shows held across the world. The London show featured the headline stealing reunion of Roger Waters with Pink Floyd, thrilling the crowds with their 22 minute set, and it is this show which is covered in McCartney's book.

Live8 Cool Pix, sold as a special limited edition of 1,000 with all proceeds donated to the Live8 project, takes an intimate look at the event from early arrival at Hyde Park, through to the post midnight conclusion of an incredible event.

With McCartney having complete access to all areas - more than press photographers had - practically all the pictures within the covers are unposed, and snatched shots of an unaware star or three. Due to his enviable access, there are shots from the depths of backstage and production areas, and also from the side of the stage. These shots in particular are fascinating, giving an unique view of the show in progress. Ever wondered what the crew sees of the band? Now you can see!

The camera itself - a Nikon Coolpix 4500 - is a 4 megapixel compact digital camera. The digital origins of the pictures are apparent, particularly on some shots which have clearly been closely cropped then boosted in size. Nevertheless, this detracts nothing from the final result and indeed, adds something to the flavour of the snatched shots. Sometimes professionally shot candid pictures can feel rather posed when they ooze quality.

McCartney has also captioned most of the pictures, and these can be unintentionally amusing - there are some very cheesy comments made. McCartney seems fine when the picture speaks for itself, but when there is little to say apart from who the person is, that's when he struggles! Having said that, the whole point of the book is the glorious pictures...

For Floyd fans, there are two nice, unusual shots of the band in action taken from stage right, along with a snap of a very happy looking Storm Thorgerson backstage. The band also crop up in the finale group shots, with McCartney lurking just behind Nick Mason and David Gilmour. Nick is seen in conference with Paul McCartney, backstage, earlier in the book, as is David Gilmour, Polly, and their son Charlie.

With some brilliant shots from throughout the day, taking a chronological look at the event as it unfolded, and with the proceeds going to charity, there is very little reason NOT to buy this great book. As it is a limited edition of 1,000, you're going to have to be swift to secure your copy. We're sure that you won't regret it though!

ORDERING INFORMATION

The book can be ordered through the following special links: Amazon UK, France, or Germany. If you are outside these countries, do not worry - they ship books worldwide. And remember - each book sold directly helps the Band Aid Trust with their sterling work.