UPNT’s Holiday Buyer’s Guide: Magazine/DVD
Sevens Clash Zine ($20)
Hip-Hop’s connection to Jamaica starts with Kool Herc, and has continued into the current day. Kanye West’s progressive Yeezus album contained a myriad of regga-e samples and interpolations, and A$AP Ferg’s biggest single of the year was an ode to Shabba Ranks. If that hasn’t been enough for you, immerse yourself into the culture with the Sevens Clash Zine.
Ego Trip Back Issues ($10)
Before Elliott Wilson was “YN,” leader of Rap Radar, he was one of the founding members of Ego Trip (alongside Sacha Jenkins), one of the most legendary magazines in hip-hop culture. The magazine was known for its wit and balls-to-the-wall writing style that simply will not be replicated ever again. Look at what the younger generation is getting right now from their magazines, and be a good Samaritan: put them up on how a magazine should be presented.
The Legend of Cool “Disco” Dan DVD ($19.99)
We can’t forget about graffiti when we talk about hip-hop culture. And one of graffiti’s most successful artists was Cool “Disco” Dan, a man who has left his mark forever in the Washington D.C. area. This DVD, narrated by Henry Rollins, tells his narrative, and with Five Pointz having been taken down, it’s only right to get yourself a copy.
Mass Appeal Quarterly Subscription ($25)
After a lengthy hiatus, one of hip-hop’s signature publications has returned to print in 2013. The return, Issue #52, had Earl Sweatshirt on the cover. Earl would go on to release his well-received Doris album a few months later. The magazine clearly knows what it’s doing, making it well worth a subscription.
Frank151 5-Pack Gift Box ($40)
This might be the best sales pitch ever. “Nothing stops a bullet better than a thick brick of quality publications housed in a handsome slipcase.” If that isn’t reason enough to make a purchase, Frank151 is allowing you to select any five of their vintage issues. Frank151 have always been ahead of the curve with their publication, and this allows you to look back and see why.