Zip It Up!, a massive annotated anthology of the highly regarded American music magazine Trouser Press (1974-1984), offers readers an immersion in rock journalism as it was practiced in its heyday — as well as a deeply informative history of many important rock artists. Known variously as “America’s Only British Rock Magazine” and “the bible of alternative rock,” Trouser Press was an important chronicler of trends and developments, from the British Invasion to new wave and punk. The features assembled here go deep, while the interviews include impertinent questions of the sort few have the courage to ask. Throughout, the writing is witty, smart and packed with strong opinions. The book includes the longest, most detailed interview Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin has ever given as well as fascinating and entertaining interviews with and profiles of Pete Townshend, Robert Fripp, KISS, Cheap Trick, Lou Reed, Malcolm McLaren, the Ramones and Richie Blackmore of Deep Purple.
