Twenty years ago I released my first record, the Knowone EP. Two decades on and I'm releasing it digitally for the first time. Looking back, it was much more than just my musical debut, it was the physical embodiment of naive enthusiasm and a collaboration between people who would become lifelong friends.
Despite having little money I funded it myself and with no distribution I had to go from shop to shop on foot. The gamble paid off though as most record shops took copies and eventually sold them. It was hard work but highly rewarding.
To say I released it, is not a fair statement. It was the support of my friend Tom Relleen that made it happen. Back then he was something of an éminence grise, who backed people he believed in without the need for recognition. Eventually, he would take the limelight himself with Tomaga and other projects. I dearly wish he was here today to celebrate this milestone with me.
With him and Kelpe, we co-founded Erratica Records and Knowone was the label's first record. Our ambition was bigger than our wallets though, which meant Erratica's physical output totalled just three releases. However, its real legacy is the nights we ran. Our first major event was at Corsica Studios, just after its migration from Kings Cross to Elephant & Castle. We invited our favourite artists and peers to these nights, which included names such as @__a__c__t__r__e__s__s_, Pole, @lusine_music (1st UK appearance), Crunch, @aokitakamasa and @clarointelecto_official. Our events helped kickstart a wave of underground electronica events, which contributed to the venue evolving into the legendary venue it is today.
Along the way I met so many like minded people. I am eternally grateful to all of those who put out my music, especially Daz at SCSI Av, Derek at Combat, Dave at @frijsfo and Orson at @orson_records. Also, the people who pushed my records deserve a shout out, in particular Simon, @djheidi and @phonicarecords crew. Finally, all the people who booked me to play, put me up for the night, got me on a train, bought me dinner...thank you.
I'm don't think most people realise how big a heart you need to be in the underground music game. Countless events barely break even and aren't run by people with deep pockets. The reward, of course, is that we made something unique happen.
Knowone is certainly naive and idiosyncratic of its time but it has a lot of spirit and a creation I'll always be proud of.
Point B earned a rep through his dance floor-focussed EPs and experimental long players. Sewing together influences from
70s sci-fi films & traditional middle eastern music, he wove a unique sonic fabric. After absorbing the waves of dubstep and post-garage that washed up on the shores of South London, his sound matured into something that can deliver club euphoria and introspective melancholy....more
These three tracks from Shawn Davis strip electronic music down to its bare essence, presenting pointillist synths and icy beats. Bandcamp New & Notable Jul 31, 2021