MAXIMUM ROCK’N’ROLL #408, $4.99, 8½” x 11”, 98 pgs.

Aug 16, 2017

To be perfectly honest, it’s been a number of years since I’ve picked up an MRR. It never quite gripped me like I wanted it to, and though I realize that every issue is unique, I just haven’t developed a habit of reading it. This issue had a few things that did really grab my attention—largely in the columns section. Overamped is a new column by someone who works directly in harm reduction. The piece in this issue is largely introductory to the subject matter, though it also plants the necessary seeds for destigmatizing drug use and the importance of restoring humanity to users. Having volunteered for the People’s Harm Reduction Alliance personally, I was very endeared to this piece. Another of note is Teaching Resistance wherein radical and subversive educators share their pedagogy and tactics. This particular issue covered current day college-level students and their perspectives on the Black Panther movement, including dispelling falsehoods. One thing I still don’t get about this fanzine is why columnists are compelled to recount record reviews in their allotted space. Save that for the review section! Band interviews include acts such as Reptile Ranch, Zone Infinie, Ataxxia, and Street Eaters. While I understand that it makes me sound jaded and out of touch, much of the music MRR covers is not familiar to me, though I consider that a positive. It’s crucial to step outside of your comfort zone when the opportunity presents itself. All in all, it’s a good issue and enjoyable read. It didn’t quite make me a subscription convert, but it did make me mindful to pick up a copy more often. –Kayla Greet (Maximum Rock’n’roll, PO Box 460760, SF, CA 94146-0760, [email protected])

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