This Spring we were fortunate enough to talk with Henry Jenkins, Professor of Media Studies at MIT & Author of, "Textual Poachers", a book revealing the relevance of television and media fans in modern popular culture. As both an academic and a Sci-Fi fan Mr. Jenkins found his peers and the media at large to be characterizing fandom in a most disparaging and inaccurate way. To quote Henry, "I got tired of William Shatner telling me to 'Get a Life', and I wrote a book."
Erin's favorite band plays improvisational rock ala Phish & the Gratetful Dead. She tells us a bit about the nature of Disco Biscuit fans and why she's proud to be one. Following the band has enriched her life immeasurably - her greatest friends & fiancee are all fervent fans of the Biscuits. Erin's also got the unique perspective of being friends with the band, not a position every fan can claim.
Allison Wolfe, lead singer of Bratmobile [& Deep Lust], shares her reflections on the riot girl scene and being a member of this influential and inspiring band. Bratmobile found themselves in an enviable position, growing as a band in a supportive, fan-based environment. "You were fans of your friends, and friends with your fans..." Alison continues to keep this perspective alive while on tour, actively closing the traditional distance between fan and performer. After all, she knows how frustrating a fan's life can be. "I can only be a fan for so long.....then I demand better treatment..."