NEW HOPE INTERNATIONAL REVIEW ON-LINE

Full of independent minded articles, reviews and adverts, FRICTION magazine is a worthwhile purchase for those curious in what all this 'counter culture' talk is all about. It runs in a very similar vein to Chumbawumba's publication, the magazine of no value, SIC, and even features an article on the Argentinean insurgency that could have come straight from its pages. But upon further reading showcases another persons' experience instead!

Although it has elements of said 'counter culture' FRICTION comes from a very American perspective, shown in articles about Joe Strummer, what is it with Americans and The Clash? There were other punk bands from the UK y'know! and an interesting, though flawed, article on Sept 11th. For instance, I'd really have to question whether or not David Trimble could be included in the Terrorist category. Though presenting a list of references, the piece is limited and tends to ask more questions than it answers. Although raising interesting points it also tends to go along too easily with the Government line — "Yes Saddam Hussein also threatens us" and "Every time we've tried to take freedom from dictators and give it to their citizens, it has failed-Somalia, Vietnam, Iraq, the Philippines and China." Bad examples that showcase a lack of basic research. Each mentioned had nothing to do with liberation and more to do with 'vital US interests'. Especially Somalia, Iraq and Vietnam. All said, kinda odd considering the independent theme of the publication it sits in!

Perhaps I've been harsh as this is only one minus in a myriad of pluses. The fiction and interviews are good and give space to bands and musicians you might not have previously heard or known of. Music and its independence is their strength here and one that they should concentrate on and not politics.

Although lacking the subtlety and humour of SIC, FRICTION is a worthwhile addition for those seeking something a bit more alternative in their culture magazines and a welcome change from the mountain of corporate publications currently clogging up the newsagents these days.