For many of us, rock 'n' roll is more than just music. It is the soundtrack of our lives, a larger than life presence that continues to shape our lives.

Ask friends what their first album was and you will get an instant answer — often followed by a lengthy discourse on what it cost, how old they were, where they bought it, how many times they played it that first day.

Nostalgia is a big part of the experience, which is why Marin Rocks! will be a hit when it opens in downtown San Rafael this fall.

The rock history exhibit, billed as far more than a museum, will include artifacts and interactive exhibits recounting Marin's colorful and influential role in rock music. We generally loath name droppers, but we can't wait to check out the tributes to Jerry, Janis, Huey and James.

Here correspondent Paul Liberatore offers a sneak preview in this week's Covered story.

Thoughts about Marin's rock legacy? E-mail me at editor.here@gmail.com.

— Vicki Larson, here editor