We're all of us rather proud as each One Step Beyond rolls off the presses, none more so than when a landmark number takes us to another level. Issue 80 therefore is another number worthy of mention given that it's, well..............quite a big number isn't it? Which means that we've had quite a lot of issues done, doesn't it? Therefore we are allowed to be quite proud at this particular one rolling off the presses can't we?
The role of the fanzine changes as the years go by. Ours in particular I mean rather than in general terms. There was a time, when we first started out, that the sole intention was to answer critics of the manager at the time. Tommy McLean was taking undeserved abuse for steering the side along in similar manner to the current season. Following his departure it's fair to say we were extremely supportive to his successors and then when ownership of the club changed we continued that support. Often flying in the face of popular opinion amongst our wider fanbase, I sometimes got the impression, sitting back after another release, that I/we were actually just being contrary for the sake of it at times. I'm fairly certain if anyone cares enough to check back that opinions have changed somewhat, although such things happen through time.
No suprise then that this issue is full of moans, going against the grain once more as the overriding feeling amongst Well fans just now is one of glee. But we don't just look at the obvious picture unfolding in front of us. Things still aren't right Up By, although the team are going great guns.
I have a particular beef after the club refused to sanction my new book of course, and there's the Cooper Stand issue once more. Two major decisions which I feel the club have got wrong, strangely enough the first two meaningful decisions needing made.
So in my humble opinion the jury is still out on the changes which were supposed to make it all singing and dancing, a new openness, different way of thinking. Seems to me a case of same old, same old, but it's not just my opinion that counts. OSB is open to all for their views, if we seem negative it's because the positive minds aren't making their views known. Up to you in the end, the fanzine exists solely to allow fans a voice, use it or lose it.
Mj
And don't forget copies of Peacocks & Feather Dusters will be available along with the zine on Saturday. If you can't get along you can buy it here.