STILL DYING - ISSUE 1

Just because it is a punk rock publication doesn't mean a fanzine has to be a roughshod gathering of various snippets and pictures from here, there and everywhere with a distinct emphasis laid on the copy, cut and paste methodology.  There is nothing wrong with this approach but I still welcome a professionally delivered, easy to read compilation of textual matter and quality snaps that reflects a little forethought and attention to detail.  The debut copy of Still Dying is just that and is a tidy little collection of reviews, news and interviews to put many lesser efforts to shame. 
 
The layout is clear and to the point and printed on more than bog paper which gives the whole thing a feel of subtle professionalism.  Loads of news snippets (as one would expect), a couple of comprehensive interviews (one with Pinch of the Damned should generate interest), several decent CD reviews, a few live reviews, and a nostalgia section that looks back and 'remembers' a band from years gone by - this issue Anti Pasti - will they be headlining Rebellion this year - could be?
 
The best bit for me is the X-Posed section that reveals the Name, Line-up, Influences, History, Description and Website of various underdog bands that I am sure will all be worth checking out.  I know quite a few of these as this is where my punky heart lies but one or two were new to my nosey nature so a Fungal thumbs up for definite.
 
I'd better get my order in for Issue 2 and beyond because something tells me this will be a popular little title.
 
Content - 8

Presentation - 9

Value For Money - 9.5

Comparative Rating - 9.5

Issues Best Bits - CD Reviews, X-Posed feature, Remembers feature

MILD PERIL - ISSUE 8

My first impressions of this fanzine were of a value for money publication ideal for curious punkers like myself who are always on the look-out for new bands to check out. How right I was!

At 42 pages long and printed on fair quality paper this A5 offering has a lot to offer. The anecdotal introduction is well put together and gives it a personal edge rather than the cold stated factual option that is too easily found in more advanced textual matter. The reviews are to the point and get the job done adequately and deal with a variety of bands at different stages in their careers.

The comic strip centre pages are really well drawn and break up the punk onslaught well.

A veggie recipe, gig reviews and terse CD reviews of less obvious bands give this offering a unique identity and for the price of 1 nugget is a real bargain. Despite there being a lot of obvious 'local stuff' this is worth a peek by anyone in the scene and the list of recommended websites satisfies my predatory punk instincts.

Content - 8

Presentation - 8.5

Value For Money - 9

Comparative Rating - 8

Issues Best Bits - Toilet Facts, Griswalds Interview, CD Reviews