Maisons Normandes

It's an absolutely beautiful French magazine in French. It does not pander to any audience except those who are French, and love French country architecture of the Normandy region. Not something the average American would enjoy.

Mopar Muscle

I really like this magazine. Compared to other Mopar magazines, it has more hands on, budget builds, and how to's than most others. Tons of pictures and cool rides make this a must for mopar fans.

The magazine was a gift last year and I appreciated to renew the gift this year

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The auto renewal feature, love being able to renew with just a few clicks.

I have subscribed to this magazine for years and I keep every issue. The tech sections are great and have been great reference materials over the years while working on my cars.

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Is mopar muscle available in audio????? I will put it on kindle fire HD and need to know if it will read to my blind son?????

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I gift this every Christmas to Mopar lovers and they love this magazine. Just renewed the subscription for another year.

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American Archaeology

American Archaeology is the only national magazine dedicated to covering the archaeology of the Americas. The publication offers readers a chance to learn about the exciting world of archaeology and presents information in an easily accessible way. In addition to highlighting the outstanding work of The Archaeological Conservancy, American Archaeology covers the latest in significant research and discovery, and is a favorite among professionals and amateurs in the field. A must have for anyone interested in this topic!

I have supported the Archaeological Conservancy for years and have always enjoyed their magazine. The stories covered are diverse and interesting, covering sites across America.

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Over a month since placing this order and I have yet to receive an issue or an confirmation of my subscription.

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Wine & Spirits

At one time I absolutely adored this magazine. It contained articles that appealed to the wine geek in me. Not like Wine Spectator and their frequent score dropping. In an issue of Wine Spectator I was very interested about their article on the Russian River Valley and sorely disappointed that 50% of the article was in mentioning how great X winery was for making a 90 point this and a 91 point that. So I often turned to the amazing writing in W&S magazine.

In years past the articles were more numerous, the content much more creative and appealing. Now it seems they have run out of ideas. Instead it seems the magazine is becoming more like the Wine Spectator. Year after year it seems certain issues rehash stories from previous years, just with newer writing. I used to enjoy the stories of Rias Baixas, Sherry grown on the various soils, strange SW French wines like Iroulegy (sp?) and Gaillac. An article about grower champagne. Mendocino county wineries. The list goes on and on. But it seems in the interest of attracting subscribers they have gone more to the mainstream (this issue of Napa Cab and this issue of Bordeaux). Granted these are central to the world of wine, but it seems less space is being given to the interesting articles of up and coming wine regions. They still do include some interesting stories (hence the 3 star review), but as the magazine shrinks, so does the content. And the percentage of ads is about the same.

The reason I have a tough time recommending this magazine is that in the last 10 years or so (I began subscribing in the early to mid 2000s) I have noticed the number of pages decrease while the price jumps. It doesn't make much sense. Many other magazines are lowering subscription rates to increase readership and attract more profitable advertisers. I currently subscribe to a half dozen or so magazines, all were under $20 per year for at least 10 issues (Beer Advocate, Nat'l Geographic, Smithsonian, Yoga Journal, Runners World, and an inexplicable subscription to Outside magazine that has been coming for over 4 years... without my ever renewing...). I notice that these magazines have continued to provide strong articles while maintaining their reasonable subscription prices even in these tough times for periodicals.

So if the price ever drops to less than $20, I would recommend this magazine. But with the $29 price for 8 issues, and the lessened content, I find it hard to recommend. Go with Decanter magazine instead. It is the current leader for true wine lovers who don't dwell on scores, but it IS $55 per year (12 issues). Many of their articles are written by Masters of Wine and Master Sommeliers. Though it does have a more Eurocentric outlook (not necessarily a bad thing!). If you love buying wines based on the 100 point scale and enjoy very quick and simple articles, or buy for collecting and investing, then the Wine Spectator is a good magazine ($50 for 15 issues). The magazines I mentioned are more expensive, but well worth the content. And I would probably avoid Wine Enthusiast magazine.

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Modern Drummer

I've been a Modern Drummer reader/subscriber for a very long time and it's consistently been a decent magazine.

MD does excellent product reviews. They are always interesting to read and give a good idea of how a product sounds (always tricky) or works. Whenever MD focuses on equipment, be it the reviews or news of new equipment, the magazine excels. They do a very good job of keeping up with manufacturers all over the world. And this is no mean feat considering that the number of types of instruments and equipment that fall under the category of drums and percussion is probably as vast as all other instruments combined.

Also one of the better aspects of the magazine are the "filler" (nondepartmental) articles that vary from month to month. The editors do a respectable job of filling the mag with articles that will interest all aspects of the drumming community. Community also plays a big part. Drummers, unlike guitarists, tend to love each other rather than despise others with talent. Little things like updates on older drummers, world drummer features, new drummers featured every month, birthdays, and even obituaries foster this sense. The latter is one of the best aspects of the magazine, as the editors really hold the community feel in mind when doing obits, often featuring drummers and music folks that would never get press anywhere else. Having some history of drumming presented in this manner helps to appreciate those that went on before us.

MD also tries to help instructionally, publishing charts and transcriptions of famous drum performances. The editors consistently try to educate on several fronts, including technique, buying tips, how to make a living as a drummer, and so on. All these features are invaluable.

There are some flaws, though, with the biggest being the main interviews. Featured drummers have traditionally been big names, but those names anymore are from bands I have either never heard of or are lopsidedly in the metal/grunge/industrial arena. Most of these guys are here today and gone tomorrow. Plus, they usually have little to say about the craft. And their final critique: I get tired of all the multi-tattooed, "I'm Cool", metal coverboys staring out from the magazine rack in my living room. Nothing says style like have some guy with piercings all over his face brooding at friends, neighbors, and in-laws. Some of these guys on the covers even scare children.

Sadly, technique and craft are often not discussed in great detail in the main interviews. One recent edition had interviews with two veterans, Stewart Copeland and Vic Firth. And while this was one of the better copies of the mag, little of technique was discussed with these two drumming giants. If you have heard either play, and you are a drummer, you'd love to know how they do it and from where they pull their style. Considering that interviews comprise a large portion of the magazine, this can be disconcerting.

The magazine also features reviews of recordings, but seems to pull its punches, possibly for fear of losing advertisers. The lowest rating you almost ever see for recordings is a "6" out of "10", with most being an "8". Hey, I listen to a lot of music and the sub-6 category consists of about 90% of what is out there.

The last con is the look of the magazine. For a music magazine, it's not very hip-looking. The design of the magazine seems to always be stale, even when it is updated from time to time.

Still, despite its lacks, MD holds up. There are few other options for magazines for drummers, so you don't have a lot of choices anyway. Considering this, MD gets an extra star in the review simply for being there for those of us who like to hit the skins.

There aren't many magazines for drummers that you run across at your average newstand (usually only two or three). This is the best all-around one to get. Good interviews, good reviews, good advertising. Not much on the local scene, but I can live with that.

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Modern Drummer is much more than a magazine about drummers; it's a magazine about DRUMMING. You simply can't find a better magazine that keeps you on top of everything drum-related. From new product reviews, to tuning techniques, to health columns about good playing posture and other drummer woes, to the well-written and informative articles, Modern Drummer is the best source of drumming information. Who knew that by reading a review with Godsmack's drummer, I'd learn that putting cotton balls in my floor tom is a great muffling technique? All music genres are covered in the magazine, with sheet music and guest columns from the world's greats showing how it's done.

If you're a drummer, do yourself a favor and get a subscription today. You will value this magazine for the rest of your life.

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This is my son inlaw's favorite since he is a drummer in a band on weekends. I renew this for him every year

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It would be perfect! I've read every issue of this magazine, but occasionally let my subscription lapse. Now "I'M BACK!"

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Tropical Fish Hobbyist

I've been reading TFH Mag. since I was a kid. At that time it used to show articles on reptiles, frogs, etc. Fortunantly it got even better when it became am exclusively aquarium fish Magazine again. Besides it's a complete magazine, it delivers international subscriptions, so I could have mine here in Brazil. It covers every aspect of fish care, aquarium maintance, new species, diseases, aquarium display, etc. It worths every dime you spend on it. The best thing is that you can keep old issues, as I do, because they are always useful. Go ahead, you wont regret.

In past years, there were other good magazines in the hobby. During the last couple of years however, TFH has taken the crown as the best. I read every issue cover to cover.

I receive two fish magazines, but if budget forced me to choose just one, this would be it.

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I have read TFH magazine for several years and have found it to be an excellent periodical about aquaria. It tries to accomodate all levels of hobbiests and I think it succeeds. It covers saltwater, reefs, freshwater and has special sections such as Discus questions or questions from children. I've yet to be disappointed with an issue. They are great to keep and go back to later for information on particular species.

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I really like the great articles concerning the scientific exploration in various parts of the world and the continued search of tropical freshwater fish. Their newest addition is the livebearer section which TFH is now adding to their brilliant magazine.

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First the positive. This magazine is well laid-out and has good photography for the most part. The articles are informative. There are enough reviews on here extolling the virtues of this magazine, so let me tell you the downside.

First, if you have saltwater aquariums you will find this magazine a disappointment as I have. The majority of the articles are for freshwater aquariums and ponds. I got this magazine for a year, and in that time found a handful of articles that were worthwhile for me as a marine fishkeeper. Needless to say, I won't be resubscribing. Of the saltwater articles they did have, many of them covered rare and hard-to-find species, and species that are hard to take care of. So again, not a lot of relevancy to most of us saltwater enthusiasts.

My other main problem with the magazine is that it uses the scientific names of fish almost exclusively. Now, I myself am a scientist, and there is no argument that scientific names are the most accurate and descriptive, however the title of the magazine is Tropical Fish HOBBYIST. The use of the scientific name and classification might be useful ONCE in the article, but after that becomes very cumbersome to read. There were many articles in which the common name of the fish was never used at all, and one had to rely on one of the pictures or a guidebook to even find out what fish they were talking about. If the goal of the articles is to communicate with the reader, then I don't think they're meeting that goal.

Another minor complaint is that while the photographs that are there are good, they do not provide illustrations of all the fish discussed in the article.

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Outdoor Power Equipment

Ordered this magazine in July 2006 based upon the description. Got my 1st issue, Sep 06 in late Oct. Crammed with advertisments pertaing to help in running a business, no real article at all. Then it didn't come. I emailed Amazon in Nov, asking that I receive the missing issues, extend the subscription for the missing issues, or refund my money. Later I received a November 2005 issue and a Nov 2006 issue. I emailed Greenmedia about this and have yet to receive a reply. The two Nov issues I received are also packed with advertisments.

Not much to read at all in the way of maintaing Outdoor Power Equipment. It does list page after page after page of business's that do though.

In my opinion if you're looking for a publication that talks about small machines and the small engines that power them, avoid this this one !!!

My 2 star rating is based entirely on the smooth paper and nice pictures.

New American Paintings

In my opinion, when it comes to knowing the heart beat of American painters, no publication comes close to the Open Studio Press' "New American Paintings." Published six times a year, it's a juried exhibition in print. Each competition is cataloged in a regional volume of New American Paintings: Northeastern, Mid-Atlantic, Southern, Midwestern, Western and Pacific Coast and presents the work of roughly 40 painters. Featured artists are selected on the basis of artistic merit by one juror and receive four pages of their work, bio and artist statement for free. Finalists are either over-the-top technical executionists or fresh, original, new visionaries in our field of painters. Go to their website to find out how to apply.

I have been a subscriber for ten years and have saved all by issues. When my copy arrives in the mail, it's like receiving a birthday present!

You can either subscribe annually ($89 for six editions) or pick up single copies at popular book stores for $20.

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NYLON (1-year auto-renewal)

I first picked up a copy of Nylon in Chicago, while browsing the newsstands. I wasn't sure if I would like it--years of subscribing to Vogue, Elle, and some stupid tweeny magazines had almost put me off magazine-reading for good. And yet I always manage to be drawn to the racks.

Nylon was different from the get go. They always feature unknowns on the cover, and when, on occassion, a well-known celebrity is featured, the stories give us a new perspective on them.

Nylon is worth purchasing for the layout in itself. I could spend hours paging through each feature, marveling at the graphics, and the way the magazine is put together. I love how they base some of the beauty section on famous movies or bands.

Nylon also makes a point of covering bands, movies, and fashion designers that, until now, have remained obscure. Everything they feature is amazing--most of the music they recommend ends up on my Amazon wishlist!

I would highly recommend Nylon to anyone and everyone. This obscure magazine will stun you with its amazing artistic layout, and introduce you to new products you may have never discovered.

I got this free the other day and I've been having a hard time getting through it. Expensive fashion and makeup, with some articles on music that focus on the band members' preference for skinny jeans. British cosmetic brands they wish were available here? Hotels with great spas? I'm not sure who the target audience is.

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After reading a few of these I realized that Nylon is just a rich hipster kid reference manual.

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I decided to subscribe to this mag after one of my faves, Amber Tamblyn started writing a monthly column. Offbeat and never boring, Nylon brings you all the stuff that the other "fashion" rags skip over. Written for smart, web-savvy readers who want to know more than where to buy the next up and coming handbag. With a lot of collage-type pictorials, you'll never be bored. A lot of vintage stuff as well; "background checks" are great. Many web references for you to surf to as well. Defiantely a thinking-gals guide to fashion, media and music.

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PRO: Nylon is a visual feast. Just looking through it is highly stimulating and inspiring from a design/artistic point of view. The lay-out is clean, fresh, and unique. There is a big emphasis on indie/alternative art, film, music, fashion, and literature. I found Nylon through a long internet search for an intelligent, artistic womens' mag, and it is just that.

CONS: NY-LON stands for New York and London respectively, which gives one a big hint about the target audience. Heh heh. I live in middle America, and I don't have access to the kind of brands, restaurants, bars, shops, etc. so touted by this magazine. One issue was exclusively centered around London... yeah, I can really relate. Not. Magazines like Seventeen are MUCH better about featuring merchandise and content applicable to females of every socio-economic background and location.

IN CONCLUSION: In my opinion, the positives highly outweigh the negatives. I don't regret subscribing. I always love getting my Nylon in the mail. Get this magazine if you want to subscribe to a girl magazine, but you don't want to go the usual cosmo, vogue, 17 route.

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