Half the fun of attending a live show is getting your eyes on all the excellent merch that bands are hawking to keep their creativity funded. “Meet me at the merch table” is a call to arms after a set. Watch all the merch junkies scratch and itch. Oh, you can count me in as one of them. Shoot, I’m gone like Fido. Salivating like a dog on the scent of that T-bone from the night’s steak dinner.
Lighters, beer koozies, stickers, skate decks, posters, incense, logo socks, keychains, drumsticks, vinyl records and cassettes? It doesn’t matter: MERCH ME UP BABY! I’m in.
In 2022, artists got fired up when it came to their merchandise. Damn-determined to make a buck, no matter what the reading was on their economically blurry future. It was time to turn on the crafty, and they sho’ ’nuff did, hawking everything from boss sauce to hair clips.
St. Vincent crafted a $35 Daddy’s Home candle that she claimed smelled like leather. (She somehow forgot to include the cost of therapy in its pricing.)
Mannequin Pussy, the indie-emo band from Philadelphia with the charmingly neck-snapping name, sells a mid-rise black butterfly thong for $20. That’s bold baby. But hey, they know their identity, and how to market the dickens out of it. That’s not obscene; it’s American.
So for the music person in your life, we have perused the virtual merch table. We took bong rips with the roadie, negotiated prices—and the human condition—while high AF on your behalf, cause we’re steadfast on the mission here at 48hills to find you music-related gift ideas that won’t ride up your seat like that thong. (Not unless, that’s your preferred get down. Around these parts, we accommodate and don’t discriminate.)
Walk with us as we take a gander at what’s popping and for sale this holiday season and into the New Year.
Let’s get merchy!
LARRY JUNE’S SLIPPERS
Larry June, who was born in Hunters Point and raised in Atlanta, continues to rise.
He is constantly grinding and this time, has leveled up with super-soft, absorbent, and lightweight spa slippers. This supple footwear is a merchandise item associated with his The Great Escape album, a contemporary hip-hop classic on which he collaborated with Alchemist earlier this year. These slippers are the perfect item to keep you comfortable and confident, all at the affordable price of $20.
Larry June knows a thing about commerce, but he’s been telling you this for years.
Treat your feet here.
DJ SEP IN THE HAT GAME
Yep. She is a trailblazing global selector, most-proper DJ, producer, promoter, and a publicity dynamo with multiple—and I do mean multiple—email lists. On her website, you will also find the most stylish beanie hats, both with and without poms, in the industry. With options like Sep projects “Dub Mission” or “X-Tra Wicked” emblazoned on the lid, your ‘fit will be complete and perfect for your next set. And the best part is, these hats are only $24 each, leaving you with some extra scratch for other activities.
Do it. Buy them here.
THREE SISTERS BLOODY MARY MIX
Sometimes you may not feel like going to the bar, but still want to enjoy a Sunday afternoon brunch, complete with Bloody Mary, in the comfort of your own home. We have just the solution for you.
St. Mary’s Pub, located on the outskirts of Bernal Heights near Glen Park, is known for its meticulously crafted drinks. Whether you prefer a classic Mary, a refreshing michelada, or a non-alcoholic virgin drink, their concoctions are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Their handcrafted Three Sister Bloody Mary Mix can be ordered online, allowing you to enjoy a delicious drink while watching the 49ers play, petting the pooch, and relaxing on the couch.
Order those bottles here.
WHAT’S SEABLITES BAG?
On their highly anticipated second album Lemon Lights, Seablite, the self-proclaimed jangle-gaze outfit influenced by ’80s and ’90s indie and shoegaze bands, continues to explore the nostalgic and retro sounds that have been revived by the San Francisco music scene. They deliver sublime vocals and a mesmerizing shimmer, capturing all the different shades of melancholy. This record has received widespread acclaim across various platforms, including this one. Deservedly so, I may add.
Also worthy of love is the band’s unique record-tote bag, the one with the fingers forming a rabbit shape in the reflected light. I’d gladly schlep some wax from gig to gig in that.
Order your bag here.
RAGANA SUITS UP
It’s been a while, a couple of years, since I last delved into the world of black metal. But Ragana, the duo from Oakland, is killing it. Their members alternate between drums, guitar, and vocals, and draw upon a variety of influences, including the flora and fauna of their Pacific Northwest roots and the DIY punk scene of Olympia.
A screamo, dirgy, menacing presence on the ears … It’s a good thing they sell sweatpants, because you’re gonna need to warm up after all that doom-y goodness circulates.
All kidding aside, Coley (they/them) and Maria (she/her) have crafted a sound and a vibe not heard or seen in a long time. Expect to keep seeing this band pop up on all those year-end lists that are just weeks away from being circulated.
Sweatpants, here. Buy the group’s album Desolation’s Flower, here.
