Sedition and Alchemy

Sedition and Alchemy is an in-depth biography of Welsh musician John Cale, co-founder of the Velvet Underground and a pioneering figure in avant-garde and alternative music. Authored by Tim Mitchell, the book offers a detailed exploration of Cale’s multifaceted career, from his classical training and early collaborations with La Monte Young to his influential work with Lou Reed and his expansive solo projects.​

Written with Cale’s full cooperation, the biography incorporates exclusive interviews with key figures from various stages of his career. It examines his innovative approaches to music, his deconstruction and reconstruction of musical forms, and his collaborations with artists such as Brian Eno and Lou Reed. The book also includes detailed accounts of his albums, live performances, and a comprehensive discography of his work up to the time of publication.​