London Zine Symposium 2008

On Sunday, myself (Claire ABoF) and a a few good friends headed to the London Zine Symposium. I used to write and publish a music fanzine myself back in the day but I was never really impressed with my efforts and it was bloody hard to get out there too so I really didn't know what to expect.

We entered a bustling room with an array of wonderfully creative looking fanzines (and vegan cakes!). As we meandered around the room, what struck me most about these fanzines were the number of different varieties and topics each covered. There were beautifully drawn comics, political, feminist and music zines and even zines purely based around art and photography.

I felt more and more inspired to draw and write about something again! There was a real community feel around the symposium, we even bumped into a few people there as well. It was nice chatting to all the lovely people and seeing so much creativity and positivity there was in one room.  I could have wandered around a little longer but we had a tight schedule to adhere to!

Despite the rush, I did pick up some brilliant zines whilst I was there.

Hey Monkey Riot

Ted Leo & The Pharmacists: We Never Gave Up

The Bedsit Journal

Fever Zine

You should check these out and try and get yourself copies if you can. I'm really looking forward to next year's symposium - you should try and make it down too!

26th April 2008 @ The Metro: Soeza + Buttonhead + Man Aubergine

A hot, sunny Saturday evening reigns over London. It's hardly gig weather tonight but somehow, people keep flocking down to the Metro to see this bloody fantastic line-up.

It's been a while since Man Aubergine have played in London but they hit the stage with the same quirky, off-beat enthusiasm as they always do, that's why we love them. The new songs are sounding great, beginning the evening with a sense of fun. They're a little like a countrified Primus on Prozac. Yes, that sounds a little odd but it's totally Man Aubergine. 

As the punters pile-in for Buttonhead, there's a sense of anticipation. Buttonhead are at the end of their Tour of Life April 2008. It's a bit of a slow start as a few problems are ironed-out before they hit the Metro with their unique brand of optimistic off-kilter, sing-a-long indie tunes. It's well worth the wait. Heads are furiously nodding and there are even a few dancers at the back, immersed in the music, grinning from ear to ear. Each song is an aural delight, the rocky start ends in gratuitous applause; the kids done good!

Now, it's time for Soeza! They're currently on tour to promote their latest offering 7 Obstacles, which is available via Gringo Records. Consisting of two drummers, bass, guitar, male/female vocals and a french horn, they are incredibly tight and succinct for such a varied line-up. "Brackish Waters" and "Make It" from their album Why Do You Do? has the kids' feet tapping with glorious joy. Soeza are a band who mean business, they make a wonderfully luscious racket!

The night ends with rounds of "woo's" and "yeah's". The Metro is sweaty with Soeza's gorgeously hectic set, Buttonhead's bopping fans and Man Aubergine's happy hoe-down! What a way to start the weekend.

(Photos by Krystal Sim)