Tuesday, January 23, 2007

Past Issues of HPRS

(Yes, I know that the photo shows issue 11, which isn't even mentioned here. I'm still on the Blogger learning curve; bear with me!)

HPRS 10 was reviewed in the now-defunct Kickstand zine.

Highest Population of Rock Stars #10 1/2 letter, 40 pp.
So I’ve found a new great zine since last issue, and it’s HPRS! I totally like it. It has a very crisp, clean, consistent style, and a bold honesty — almost like a journal, but
meant to be read and well written. #10 is: love, places, apathy, drinking, the band, HIV test, attitudes, and luscious desserts. Makes me feel good just to flip through it — very artistic. Please get this.

HPRS 12 and 14 were both reviewed at Bibliotheque in September 2003.

Highest Population of Rock Stars #12, 28 pp., half size
Amy's writing is thoughtful and honest, and perhaps the most admirable quality she emits in this zine is
her ability to recognize her irrationalities, something rare not just in zines, but in life in general. HPRS #12 is filled with confessions of insecurities, observations of her own depression, and a look into her struggles with relationships. What can really be valued in this zine is witnessing the revelations and change that take place in Amy as she realizes with each person she is involved with, she unconsciously tries to change for them. This is one of those zines that is easy to relate to and makes you want to copy down things that she wrote and hang them on your wall.

Highest Population of Rock Stars #14, 36pp., half size
The writin
g in the latest issue of HPRS is mostly borrowed from journal entries, lending an intimate and meandering sort of appeal. This approach, while often problematic, works to the benefit of this intensely personal zine, likely due to Amy’s adept and sensitive style. She draws you in on a variety of subject matter, ranging from lists of activities and song titles, to thoughts on her personal life. Between text-heavy pages, she has also tucked beautiful drawings, quotes, non-sequitors, and handwriting. The overall tone of sincerity, coupled with the delicate visuals creates an experience that is unique and inviting.


1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Good words.