SPIN

I recently picked up a copy of Spin because of the Kurt Cobain cover. I figured "oh what the hell... it can't be that bad if Kurt is on the cover". I flipped through it, and read some of the articles. Most of them were pretty interesting, mainly the ones about Kurt. Then I flipped to the music reviews. Athough I had never heard of any of the CDs or bands they were reviewing, I found the reviews to be very interesting, well written, and funny. It even inspired me to buy some of the CDs. I was pretty pleased with Spin, so I've now decided to get a full subscription.

Overall, there were a bit too many ads, but I can deal with that. I found everything to be well written and informative (for the most part). This mag mainly caters to fans of Rock, but does have some hip-hop, rap and other various tidbits on other music styles thrown in as well. A very welcome surprise, and I'll be looking forward to seeing Spin in my mailbox next month!


all right by me !!!   March 24, 2008
Matthew G. Sherwin
10 out of 10 found this review helpful

I like Spin magazine. Sure, it has a lot of ads and they primarily cover newer trends in music. There's not a lot for people who like classic pop vocals here! However, I always like to keep my head tuned in for new artists and the evolution of music; and so for me Spin magazine serves the purpose well. Moreover, the quality of the paper, images and text is great; and the binding is well manufactured, too.

Spin has articles on great new music and hot developments in the music industry. For example, the current issue focuses on R.E.M. and their "resurrection." I love it! They also have smaller articles with pictures of other newcomers to the music scene.

In addition, look for interesting articles like "who earns what" and "the honor roll" of new gadgets like t-shirts and wireless earphones that are rather informative about what's "hip and happening" today. It could be construed as tabloid gossip; but to me it's a great reprieve from heavy duty thinking!

Overall, Spin magazine is a fine choice for those of us who want the latest news and trends from the music industry. The writing isn't exactly Shakespearian; but you didn't buy this to read Shakespeare! The articles are actually rather well written and the humor is OK by me. I recommend this magazine for fans of modern music and people who enjoy updates about their favorite artists and bands.


Geek Lit   November 16, 2001
wordnat (boise, idaho United States)
9 out of 13 found this review helpful

SPIN is the type of magazine that tries too hard to be hip -- which, of course, is the exact antithesis of hip. Because of this geeky obsession to remain on the "cutting edge" (the editors obviously have no clue that they're about as close to the "edge" as FAMILY CIRCLE), the magazine doesn't age well -- track down some back issues and try not to laugh. On the other hand, if you're one of those intellectually stunted individuals who think tribal tats and Staind is as good as it gets, by all means send in that subscription card and join the ranks of the Supercool....


Gutted like a fish.   March 14, 2002
David F. Reddig (Twin Falls, ID USA)
9 out of 9 found this review helpful

This magazine hasn't been worth a gob of spit since Bob Guccione Jr. was forced out. Since his departure, the entire look of the magazine has changed. The photography, which used to be fantastic, is now sub-par and lifeless--with a cheap, barely trying aesthetic that seems to be everywhere these days (if you're looking for comparisons, think those Calvin Kline TV commercials from about five years back that got them into so much trouble). As far as the bands they now cover, they seem to be taking their queues from MTV (where you can scarcely find a video anymore). And there is so much filler and non-music related material, you might forget that you're reading a MUSIC magazine. Even the record reviews have changed--SPIN is a LOT more generous with the 8, 9, and 10 ratings than they used to be. The focus of their reviews now seems to be moving product--why I have no idea. Bob Guccione Jr. is sorely missed.


The way records were meant to be heard.   December 8, 2003
Porter (In the shadows)
9 out of 12 found this review helpful

Spin magazine has become a front runner of insightful, entertaining and informative music and entertainment magazines. It has become tight and valid competition with Rolling Stone the original music mag. I always enjoy their reviews, articles, fantastic pictures, interviews and movie news (although I wish it was a bit more thorough).
They have always given strong support to indie bands and one of my favorites Radiohead. Their Best of issues are always the best and their illustrations and cover art are second to none.
I have loved their 40 best albums, 40 best bands, 40 most influential bands issues as well as an article on Saddle Creek records and a Radiohead interview this year.
Spin will continue to be the front running music magazine for years to come I'm sure. And continue to be my personal favorite.