Perzine, Maxx, issue 3, [email protected], 443 Kent St., Ottawa, ON, K2P 2B4
I know I’ve read an earlier issue of this zine in the past but I scarcely remember it, which is not surprising, because this is the first issue of The Reverse Cougar Years in nearly seven human years. Ultimately, editor Maxx doesn’t stagnate in the face of writer’s block. Instead, she organizes a meeting with a bunch of pals—called a “zine-off”—where they each write about anything and everything. Here we get a personal narrative about the dynamics of being a female sound tech, as well as some thoughts on mental health. As someone who has played in numerous bands, it was so fascinating to hear her experiences from the other side of the soundboard! Maxx frets over five-band indie rock bills and all their instruments (“including the dreaded keyboard”), rude psychobilly front-women, and the always-heinous feedback of monitors.
I have always been nervous around the figure of the cranky sound tech because I figure they’re forced to listen to my band when they would probably much rather be playing music themselves, so I’ve always tried to stay on their good side. In The Reverse Cougar Years we get to read Maxx’s adventures as she tries to be the most conscientious sound person ever, making the bands sound good and make them happy. Maxx provides six handy tips on how not to be douchey to your sound tech, while also ensuring your band sounds swell. At the halfway mark, Maxx turns her attention to mental health. She describes how her mood disorder affected the various turns that her life took culminating in a decision to try medical options. She notes an observed stigma in the punk community regarding prescription drugs as she describes her experiences, reactions, and relationships. This is told in a smart, sincere, and humble way.
Maxx writes in her intro that zines exist “to make you feel like there are others out there like you.” I think that is exactly what this zine does and more. I’m really glad there are people out there like Maxx still making great, cut-and-paste gems like this. Recommended. (Chris Landry)