Today in Anti-Matter: Eighteen months ago, when I launched this iteration of Anti-Matter, I liked to talk about how the circumstances that led to the creation of the zine in 1993 seemed to “rhyme” with many of the circumstances that led to the creation of this newsletter 30 years later. Today, as I prepare to go on an indefinite hiatus, I realize that many of the circumstances that led to the original zine’s end also seem to rhyme with the present. In the introduction to the final issue back then, I wrote about my “compulsive desire” to work harder without regard to my health. In different words, I wrote about my struggle with “being perceived.” I even deemed it a hiatus. “I don’t want to say this might be the last issue that you’ll ever read,” I insisted, “because honestly, I don’t think that will be.” It only took 28 years, but I stayed true to my word and I love that. In the same way today, I do not see this as an end. Anti-Matter will somehow persist as it always has, just like it did after that issue in the summer of 1995. Working on this iteration of the zine has been rewarding in so many ways, and I couldn’t be prouder of the new work I put forth into the world. But for now, it feels appropriate to press pause with a look back on 2024. To do it, I’ve invited back Ned Russin—singer/bassist for @glitterererer and @titlefightfanclub, and one of the most dedicated hardcore kids I know. Between the two of us, we chose six songs to tell the story of this year. Unsurprisingly, the story of Anti-Matter—and its impending sunset—finds its place in our conversation as well. ALSO: The last minute/last chance Anti-Matter merch drop is live now! Preorders will be open until 12/23 and orders will begin shipping just after Christmas. If you ever wanted to show your support for this project and never had the chance—or even if you just want to pick up a little swag for the holidays—this is your final opportunity. Link is in bio! Of course, with every sunset, there is a sunrise in the future. With nothing but love and gratitude, these are the final words. For now. Head over to antimatter.substack.com and don’t miss a thing. Now more than ever: Thank you, friends. ✨