Bridge and Tunnel #1

Bridge & Tunnel brings the “gonzo-style-journalism” of the '90s New York punk magazine into the wonderfully unusual world of subterranean Britain. Hence the name: “Bridge & Tunnel”; a slang term originating from 20th century Manhattan, used by inhabitants of the borough as a derogatory name for those living outside the island.

Those who were referred to as “Bridge and Tunnel" were characterised by their tasteless and ostentatious appearances. Overtime the saying caught on, and by the 1990s its meaning had developed across the pond in London, becoming used as a descriptive name for all who could by considered culturally ignorant as a result of their ethnocentric world views and passé values. 

The history behind the project's title is tied up therefore with the aim of the zine, not only in putting a British twist on a New York format, but more importantly in ignoring what’s viewed as “current”, and instead shining a light on the people and subcultures of modern Britain that swim below the surface - out of sight from those both on the “bridges”, and in the “tunnels”. Inside you will find several interviews and articles from British creatives and “journalists” alike, with topics ranging from the art of public-toilet graffiti, to the secret internet alliance of Nigerian Scam-Baiters.