Every holiday season, we’re bombarded with “huge sales” from big companies, most of which are smoke and mirrors. Prices get inflated, then “slashed” back down to what they were all along, making us feel like we’re scoring a deal when really, we’re being hustled.
It’s an old trick, but somehow we still fall for it. Sure, there are a few genuine bargains sprinkled in, but most of the frenzy is designed to pressure us into buying something “limited” before it’s gone.
Honestly, sometimes you need that specific gift from a big-box store, and that’s fine. But if you’re hunting for something unique, something made by an independent artist or small business, well you’ve got better options. You can always browse my webstore, but each year I like to also highlight a few favorites from friends and companies I personally admire.
My buddy Mike Gallo makes some seriously cool, one-of-a-kind art. From posters and clothing to full-on original pieces, his style is unmistakably his own. He’s been featured in galleries, showcased at countless art shows, and still finds time to tour and release music with his band, Agnostic Front.
I’ve got his Taxi Driver print and an amazing pizza piece he created. Both are favorites of mine. If you’re into bold, unique work, definitely check out his site.
My buddy Jay is hands down one of the coolest comic artists out there. And no, I’m not just saying that because he’s my pal, though don’t tell him I said so! Jay’s worked on some of the biggest titles in the industry: Ninja Turtles, Godzilla, Spawn, Locke & Key… the list goes on. But honestly, his original creations are where he really shines. He’s a meticulous maniac when it comes to storylines, artwork, and overall design, and it shows.
Right now, he’s got a few new books up for sale on his site. The standout? The ’68 Ultimate Omnibus: A massive 907-page, deluxe slip-cased hardcover edition of the award-winning series ’68. Set in the turbulent year of 1968 (the same year Night of the Living Dead first shocked audiences), the series dives into the rise of the undead both on the home front and in the war-torn jungles of Vietnam. This signed hardcover edition, autographed by everyone involved, isn’t available in stores. Image Comics did release a paperback, but this deluxe version is far more limited, collectible, and absolutely worth it.
I’m a huge fan of The Phantom, there’s no independent artist out there working harder than this guy. He’s constantly creating new material, touring, and self-releasing killer records. With this year’s release of The Phantom A.D. Plays Ghoulish Rock ’N’ Roll, it’s clear he has no plans of slowing down.
As someone who’s been independently grinding away with books, I have immense respect for an artist as driven and creative as The Phantom. His webstore is packed with cool stuff, from shirts to music in multiple formats.
And don’t miss his video for the insanely catchy track I Go Where The Party Takes Me!
Black Water Market Comics and Coffee
My friend Micah and his family packed up everything and moved from Phoenix, Arizona to Mansfield, Ohio with the dream of opening a comic book store/coffee shop in a small town where the people are friendly and the vibes are more relaxed. While they work toward that brick-and-mortar goal, they’ve launched a webstore for their company Black Water Market Comics and Coffee where you can order comics and bagged coffee by mail or find them at events around the Mansfield area.
And let me tell you, the coffee is fantastic. I recently grabbed a bag and loved it. Plus, Micah even carries some of my books in the shop, so it’s a great place to snag one! (He also handled the designs for the interior of my last few books!)
He’s a great guy chasing a great dream, so before you click “buy” somewhere else online, give Black Water Market Comics & Coffee a look first.
I absolutely love this small book publisher; it feels like they’ve tapped into my brain and started releasing the exact books I want to read. Their catalog is incredible. So far, I own Armies of the Night (about The Warriors film), You’ve Got Red on You (the making of Shaun of the Dead), The Making of Sleepaway Camp, Ad Nauseam and Ad Nauseam II, Ghoulish: The Art of Gary Pullin, Sandwich Anarchy, We’re Not Worthy (’90s sketch comedy), and Weird Al’s Lights, Camera, Accordion. Honestly, I have so many that it might be easier to list the ones I don’t have yet.
They also release these amazing limited-edition soundtracks. I missed out on the vinyl for Airplane! and Val Kilmer’s classic Top Secret! – they sold out fast. I’m hoping they restock a few down the road. There are also some sold-out books I’ve been keeping an eye on.
Despite that, I keep buying from them. This year alone, I purchased three copies of The Warriors book because I know two friends who would love it, and just this week I grabbed another Sleepaway Camp for someone else. I love what they’re doing, and the best part? They keep their prices reasonable!
I have included some more links below for some cool items of all types that I think are worth checking out and fun things some of my friends have created.
Amazing Grace (Children’s Book) written by a friend of mine from school – Kira Mesi
It’s a cute book for ages 2-10 years old. When Grace looks in the mirror, she just can’t see how special she is. But with the help of her friends Sarah and Abby, she soon discovers that beauty comes from the inside! And you simply can’t make a rainbow without all the colors. “The Rainbows are all around you. You just have to open up your heart to see them.”
Shawn from Rotten Cotton’s Etsy!
Back in 2008, I lost all my clothes in a house fire. Shawn stepped up and sent me a stack of t-shirts from his clothing brand, Rotten Cotton, a gesture I’ll never forget.
Although the company has since closed, Shawn still has plenty of inventory and continues to add new items to his Etsy shop. You’ll find classic horror shirts, related merch, and even his graphic novels and comics from Eibon Press.
The Fulci Zombi comic and Bottom Feeder series are absolutely wild and definitely worth checking out!
Gift a Membership to The Phoenix Zoo
I love animals, and the Phoenix Zoo does incredible work for conservation. A membership or visit makes a fantastic gift, it’s something you can enjoy all year long. For anyone who cares about wildlife, it’s thoughtful, fun, and supports a great cause!
Punk Rock Swap Meet at Yucca Tap Room Dec 14th, 2025 12pm-6pm
Local Event to Purchase all kinds of cool stuff from independent artists and creators. All Ages Bar with ID The Swap Meet is back this December for its biggest event yet! With the support of Yucca Tap Room, Electric Bat Arcade, and Tempe Art and Music, the market is expanding into the parking lot and Rocket Space, doubling its usual size.
This isn’t your average holiday market. Expect a killer mix of punk rock treasures: records, apparel, accessories, artwork, jewelry, and plenty more. There’s always something new to discover!
It’s a fantastic way to support our local community as we all hustle to make ends meet. And don’t forget—please bring a non-perishable food donation to help support TCAA and the Organized Solidarity Network.
My good buddy Rob Locker runs a seriously cool local skateboard company, crafting decks and all kinds of unique merch. He’s a huge advocate for the local skate community—and honestly, one of the nicest guys I know.
On top of that, Rob designed the North Side Kings Undefeated shirt, which you can grab at the AZPX shop!
If you dig the shirts in my Total Gavone Clothing webstore, you’re going to love Omerta’s designs. This is hands-down my favorite independent clothing company—their phrases, artwork, and overall message are as solid as it gets.
Classics like Stop Glorifying Rats, Nobody Likes a Tattletale, and Mind Your Business are staples, but they’ve also got killer band shirts and even an exclusive design for the new horror film Mr. Director!
My friend Max Cavalera is one of the hardest-working guys in metal. He’s constantly on the road, touring with all his bands, writing new material, and staying more relevant to music than ever.
Even cooler, he runs a webstore packed with unique items: signed drumheads featuring original art, shirts, autographed albums, and so much more. It’s the perfect place to grab something from an artist who truly defines what it means to be a road warrior!
Meet My Punk Rock Family Coloring Book
Meet my “Punk Rock Family” in this unique children’s book designed for adults. Volume 1 is an interactive compilation showcasing A selection of friends Johnny Cuccinello encountered throughout his forty-year punk rock journey. This limited edition yellow cover book features forty-two original marker drawings, inviting you to identify my punk rock friends and the bands they represent. Test your artistic skills with the “can you color like me?” pages and discover your creative potential. Come inside Volume 1 and learn how to create your own misfit crew, aka “Punk Rock Family”!
My buddy Ryan Butler has an online shop where he sells all kinds of cool band and pop culture merchandise. Everything is super high quality and he has an incredible array of different things to choose from including patches, hats, shirts and a lot of other great items!
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