Zerox Machine: Punk, Post-Punk and Fanzines in Britain, 1976-1988

Zerox Machine is a comprehensive visual history of British punk and its fanzines from 1976 to 1988, offering an intimate glimpse into the hopes and anxieties of a generation. Through previously unpublished materials and insightful analysis, the book captures the spirit and essence of British youth culture and sheds new light on a pivotal movement in music history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2024
Publisher: Reaktion Books

A Visual History of British Punk Artists, Fans, and Fanzines


From 1976 to 1988, British punk experienced a cultural explosion, and Zerox Machine takes you on an immersive journey through this vibrant era. Drawing on an extensive range of previously unpublished materials sourced from private collections across the United Kingdom, author Matthew Worley delves into the heart and soul of this transformative period, offering an intimate glimpse into the hopes, anxieties, and experiences that shaped a generation.


Far more than a mere showcase of covers, Zerox Machine delves deep into the world of fanzines, presenting a rich tapestry of firsthand accounts, personal stories, and subcultural reflections. With meticulous research and insightful analysis, Worley captures the spirit and essence of British youth culture, shedding new light on a pivotal movement in music history and providing a unique alternative history of Britain in the 1970s and 80s.


Written in a clear and captivating style, Zerox Machine is a comprehensive overview of fanzines that transcends the usual DIY/punk/music clichés. It is a smart and exhaustive analysis that deserves to be the go-to reference for anyone interested in exploring the bygone joys of obsolete technology, praxis, and self-expression, long before the rise of social media influencers and gifted content.


Liz Naylor, coeditor of City Fun fanzine, praises Zerox Machine for its brilliant guide to the world of fanzines and the extraordinary passion and creativity of their many authors and readers. Worley pays proper tribute to all those diverse voices, recognizing their significant contribution to the history of popular culture and the lives of those who cherish it.


John Street, professor emeritus at the University of East Anglia, also commends Zerox Machine for its insightful and comprehensive treatment of the subject. Worley's work is a testament to the power of fanzines to connect individuals, forge communities, and leave a lasting impact on the cultural landscape.


In conclusion, Zerox Machine is a must-read for anyone with an interest in British punk, music history, or the cultural significance of fanzines. It is a testament to the enduring power of creativity, self-expression, and community, offering a glimpse into a bygone era that continues to inspire and influence today's generation.

Weight: 568g
Dimension: 220 x 170 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789148596