M.A.R.S. #4 (NY, USA) May, 1987, Editor: “Alec Dana”
This photocopied and stapled ‘zine’ was more of a newsletter (the editor stated as much), and this is actually the first issue to feature interviews extensively rather than just album reviews. Mid to late-80s, they focused on speed and power metal primarily (as the “best of 1986” indicates), and this issue features interviews with under the radar bands like Steel Prophet Siren, Oliver magnum and Sacred Oath, live reviews from NYC including Slayer on the World Sacrifice tour,  as well as a cool essay on the then NEW music media COMPACT DISCS! What to make of those strange things…? (but at least they lasted longer than 8 tracks). Contrary to the cover, Dream Death was actually not in this zine….The real gem here is the short but entertaining interview with “Peace Sells…” era Megadeth (w/Dave M. and Dave E.). One notable comment is somewhat timely today, as Dave Mustaine rips apart Motorhead, who actually in recent weeks he ‘personally’ invited onto his signature Gigantour next year (2012). I guess things change over 24 years…
canadaspacema
I wish you had more issues. I USED to own #2-5 at least. There might not havebeen more, I should have kept writing and taopetrading with Alec.
By the way, this ebayer dropped the price by about 4 or 5 bucks for an issue, but it is still too expensive for me to buy.
http://www.ebay.com.my/itm/MARS-3-ZINE-86-OOP-KING-DIAMOND-OBSESSION-SATANS-HOST-DESOLATION-NASTY-SAVAGE-/271448384889?