With the Internet, my consumption of music magazines has most definitely declined. Between the various music e-lists that I subscribe to (Audities, Bomp and Shindig to name just three) and the excellent free e-zines that are available (Fufkin, Perfect Sound Forever and Glorious Noise to name just another three) it just doesn't seem like I have as much time to read the printed word, but I do try to make the time as there is something special about crashing out somewhere with a bunch of rock mags and the radio on in the background that is somehow reassuring. That being said, here is what currently fills my magazine rack at home:
Harp, Magnet and Amplifier- These are the “big 3” for me. Bi-monthly publications heavy on the indie scene but featuring a really diverse blend of bands and musical styles, these mags feature music, music and more music with nary a fashion ad in sight. A refreshing read even if Magnet and Harp feature the same cover subject occasionally.
Mojo- A nice, big, glossy (and expensive!) rock and roll mag featuring all kinds of cool current stuff and amazing features on rock and roll’s past (although a bit Beatles heavy at times). A joy to read but a bit of drain on the pocketbook. I don’t pick up every monthly issue but I usually regret it when it’s no longer available. And the compilation CDs are often excellent.
Uncut- Though not music exclusive, music dominates Uncut with excellent coverage of both the mainstream and offbeat and another great source of fine CD compilations. Another expensive monthly but usually a good bang for the buck.
Exclaim- A free Canadian monthly music newspaper filled to the brim with all kinds of cool bands from rap to hard core. I tend to stick to the more rock and roll/pop stuff but it is certainly interesting to read about all the other wild stuff out there and it is nice to read about Canadian indie bands for a change. The only complaint that I have is that the freakin' ink comes off easily on the fingers so it's a must that you wash your hands after reading. A great monthly that is also the sponsor of an annual hockey tournament (the Exclaim Hockey Summit) featuring rock and rollers competing against each other in the name of charity. Pretty cool eh?
Article comments
1 - Triniman
Good article, Mark.
I also have a new column for Blogcritics, The Weekly Music Magazine Sampler CD Review, with the second installment set for tomorrow (Saturdays.)
I've a big fan of music magazines and either buy at the bookstore or subscribe to the following which come with sampler CDs.
Uncut
Magnet
CMJ New Music Monthly
Wire
Comes With A Smile
Law of Inertia
I buy these ones only when they come with a CD:
Q
Mojo
Tracks
Word
NME
And I buy or subscribe to these which don't have CDs:
Rolling Stone
Blender
I may actually run my column twice a week, since I have so many samplers to review.