Clash Magazine

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http://www.clashmagazine.com/

New music and fashion title Clash to launch next week  
 http://www.brandrepublic.com/mediabulletin/news_story.cfm?articleID=204219&Origin=MB05032004
Clash: new launch  
Jules Grant, Brand Republic 11:00 05-03-2004
LONDON - Clash, a new independent music and fashion magazine, is to hit newsstands next Tuesday aiming to reach the top 10 in the entertainment and lifestyle sector.

Previously known as Vibe magazine, the bi-monthly title has relaunched to increase its distribution and enhance its global appeal after its reputation has grown nationwide and in the US.

Described as a cross between NME and The Face, the magazine published by Vibe Media has a strong emphasis on design as well as fashion and music. It has a square-shaped format designed to mimic a 10" record sleeve.

The first issue features the new breed of bands that are currently dominating the music scene, such as Franz Ferdinand, Scissor Sisters and My Morning Jacket, plus profiles of Annie Leibovitz's work and features on Johnny Cash and snowboarding and music festival Snowbombing.

The magazine aims to target a wide audience of young and old by also looking at "cool" nostalgic musical influences.

It is to be edited by Simon Harper, previous editor of Vibe magazine, whose music credentials include playing alongside The White Stripes at the Gig on the Green festival in Glasgow two years ago with his band Kush.

Vibe Media was launched as a design agency two-and-a-half years ago by founder and director John O'Rourke, which then transformed into Vibe magazine to showcase the agency's design skills. The title was received well Stateside and managed to secure a rare interview with the Red Hot Chilli Peppers at the beginning of last year.

"Part of the reason for the name change is that there is already a magazine in the US called Vibe and the magazine wants to expand globally," O'Rourke said.

Advertising in the first issue comes from brands such as MTV, Levi's, Sony, Universal, Warners, EMI and Snickers.

The magazine will be available in retailers such as WH Smith, Virgin, HMV and independent record outlets with an introductory price of £2.50. The initial print run is 30,000.

The launch is supported by a website, which gives highlights of the current issue and the opportunity to join a mailing list.