Fred Spenner - Print Fanzine Publisher

 

Underdog Fanzine (UF) has been around as a print magazine since 2002. How do you manage to keep a DIY print magazine alive for almost 25 years in a digitalized world? RESPECT for that. How will the 25th anniversary in 2027 be celebrated? Festival, special edition, etc. … any plans?
Fred: Thank you! UF has never been a business project, but a labor of love. Print is slower than social media, but that’s exactly its strength: it offers depth, context and permanence instead of algorithms and clickbait. Readers still appreciate holding a real zine in their hands. For our 25th anniversary in 2027, we’re planning a special issue and hopefully a small DIY show with friends and bands that have accompanied UF over the years.

UF „advocates for a progressive world without exploitation and oppression, where people can live their differences without being restricted by or because of them“. How difficult is it for you to experience that in this day and age, the values you represent are increasingly being trampled underfoot?
Fred: It’s frustrating to see racism, sexism and authoritarian ideas becoming more visible again. But punk was born in difficult times, so I see this as another reason to keep going. UF stands for solidarity, diversity and independent thinking. A fanzine won’t change the world, but it can create spaces for discussion, challenge prejudice and remind people that DIY culture and mutual support are still alive.

What do bands have to bring to the table for you to find them interesting enough and present them in UF? What turns you off in today’s subcultural music scene?
Fred: Authenticity matters far more than perfection. I look for bands with passion, honesty and a genuine DIY spirit - whether they’re organizing shows, running labels or simply creating something meaningful. What puts me off is when image, algorithms and marketing become more important than the music or the ideas behind it. Punk should inspire participation, not just consumption.

Release date: 16th of August, 2026
Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/fredspenner/