One of the last Aussie ‘zines standing is setting some sort of record for durability, but issue 20 is tinged with deep sadness.
Editor Danger Coolidge’s opening column, detailing the life and tragic loss of his son, Angus Reekie, who took his own life late last year at the age of 16, is one of the most powerful things you’ll read. Cathartic in the extreme, if it doesn’t touch you, you’re not human.
On the brighter side of the coin, this issue is the usual mix of gems, surprises and obscurities. The interview with Buffalo vocalist Dave Tice is detailed and comprehensive (and we played a small part in making it happen so it’s all the more satisfying.) The chat with Link Meanie is long overdue and covers a storied and ongoing career that's taken on fresh legs wityh Sun God Replica.
As for obscurities, Unbelievably Bad invariably shines a light on acts most of the world hasn’t heard of and there are pieces on Undinism (the Geelong band - not the Donald Trump allegations), Nick Singer (of Newcastle band Brandon’s Island) and Jonah Wallis (Fucked Up.) Harriet Hudson might be a name known to the kids who follow Miss Destiny but I didn’t like Circle Pit (her other band) so I can take or leave her interview.
Trent Marden of The Holy Soul joins the writers and talks to Sydney’s most prolific yet most unknown musician, Lobsterman (98 albums and counting), a man who makes Billy Childish sound lazy. Part three of the Jamie Leonard interview (he’s the Mu Mesons guy - the man who gave a floating cast of Sydney's mentally disabled a musical outlet in the '80s) is interesting reading - especially his angst about working for noise merchants SPK when they achieved a measure of mainstream profile.
This issue’s reviews lean towards grindcore and noise bands that ain't my bag but that’s a reflection of the editor’s tastes so you get fair warning. It's still a great read and a bargain at $A9 a copy at any enlightened bricks and mortar record store.
