Matthew Collin has written some of the most seminal books about electronic music culture. His latest, ”Dream Machines," captures the essence of innovators who embraced technology to shape the future of music, through looking at electronic in Britain from Doctor Who to Acid House. Our dialogue spans the rich textures of synth-pop, the deep grooves of dub, and the raw energy of hip-hop, all set against the backdrop of social and cultural revolutions that have ignited forward facing music.
Uncover the influences that have invigorated the electronic music scene, from the revolutionary tape recorders post-World War II to the democratisation of music production that gave rise to bedroom techno artists and acid house legends. Matthew sheds light on the Hartnoll brothers' epic "Chime," and how the biggest expense for the track was £3.50 for cassette. We navigate the complexity of maintaining inclusivity in an industry that's ever-evolving, especially as new technologies like generative AI continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in music innovation.
We explore the intriguing connections between psychedelic music and drugs, where the tabloid frenzy around acid house and ecstasy inadvertently fuelled a cultural movement. We reflect on the indelible marks left by pioneers like Delia Derbyshire and the BBC Radiophonic Workshop on synthesizer-driven pop. Matthew and Paul muse over the challenges of chronicling iconic figures and the importance of placing them within the ever-shifting cultural landscapes.
Dream Machines is available now, published by Omnibus Press
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Lost and Sound is proudly sponsored by Audio-Technica
Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culture Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more.
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Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins