Snapcase: Optic (Book)

$49.99 USD

Shipping costs will be calculated at checkout.

NOTE: Pre-orders begin shipping on Wednesday, November 2nd


Available for pre-sale, OPTIC is a 144-page, Smyth-sewn softcover book that tells the visual story of a band that personifies 90s hardcore; the wave that propelled the scene forward from Youth of Today, Gorilla Biscuits and those that came before it. The book’s “Black” First Edition is hand-numbered out of 500 copies and includes an insert signed by the band.


From 1989, when they were known as Solid State, through 2005’s “final” show—SNAPCASE were leaders in the 90s hardcore scene. They grew more powerful and evolved with every release, including 1997’s seminal Progression Through Unlearning album. OPTIC shines a spotlight on this era of hardcore by chronologically featuring the band’s personal photography, professional photography, influential releases, show flyers, posters, backstage passes, personal ephemera, handwritten lyrics and much more, culled largely from current and former members of the band.


In addition the visual elements, the book features insights from current and former members, a foreword by Duncan Barlow (Endpoint, By the Grace of God) and written contributions from Walter Schreiffels (Quicksand), David Sandström (Refused), Norman Brannon (Texas Is The Reason), Scott Vogel (Terror), Andrew Kline (Strife), Dennis Merrick (Earth Crisis), Jon Gula (Turmoil), Mike McTernan (Damnation A.D.), Kate Reddy (108) and producer Steve Evetts (Progression Through Unlearning, Designs for Automotion).


Spanning the entire decade and beyond, the book shows how copy shop, paste-up flyers segued into digital compositions thanks to the advent of the computer while hardcore’s style evolved in both music and fashion. The one thing that remains true, regardless of societal or technological evolution, is that hardcore has been the driving force behind SNAPCASE since day one.


OPTIC is a 144-page (plus cover) Smyth-sewn book, meaning that its pages are sewn together using thread—a high-end binding technique that lays flatter and endures years of wear and tear. The book is printed onto uncoated, premium paper made from 30% sustainable recycled fibers, FSC-certified and produced using Bio-Gas Energy (methane from waste) while using LED-UV inks that produce brighter and bolder color than conventional inks.


• “Black” First Edition

• Includes insert signed by Daryl, Jon, Tim, Frank & Dustin

Hand-numbered out of 500 copies

Symth-sewn, 144-page (plus cover) softcover book

• Foreword by Duncan Barlow with written contributions from members of Quicksand, Refused, Texas Is The Reason, Terror, Strife, Earth Crisis, Turmoil, Damnation A.D. and 108.

400+ archival images are featured throughout

• Pre-orders begin shipping on Wednesday, November 2nd


NOTE: International shipping rates are outrageous and there's nothing I can do.


For updates, behind the scenes, insights and more: Follow myself (@manalivecreative) and the band (@snapcaseband) on Instagram!

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