In a new exhibition at the University of Greenwich’s Stephen Lawrence Gallery, the influence of London imprint Brain Records on the development of UK hardcore and jungle music is being explored. The exhibition titled Trackers and Breakbeats: Celebrating Brain Record’s Underground Revolution will run from October 11 to November 2 as part of Black History Month and is free to enter.
Rendezvous Projects Initiative
Organized by community art initiative Rendezvous Projects, the exhibition seeks to honor the influential legacy of Brain Records and its founder, Bizzy B. The show aims to redress the founder’s absence from current mainstream narratives on UK dance music.
Exploring the Legacy
The exhibition will delve into Brain Records’ groundbreaking use of Amiga computers and OctaMED software to shape the breakbeat sound, paving the way for new music production techniques. It will also examine the wider impact of this innovation on the demoscene of the early 90s, an international computer art subculture that redefined cultural structures.
Recognition of Innovation
Stated on Instagram, “The exhibition is the first of its kind to recognize the innovative use of this software on the hardcore and jungle sound.” Featuring key releases, studio equipment, photography, flyers, and oral history extracts, Trackers and Breakbeats offers a comprehensive insight into Brain Records’ history.
Pioneering Collaboration
Founded in Leytonstone in 1992, Brain Records collaborated with influential jungle and hardcore producers such as DJ Red Alert & Mike Slammer, Peshay, Equinox, and TDK, playing a vital role in the evolution of both music genres.
Celebrating Creativity
Curated in collaboration with Bizzy B himself, the show highlights the grassroots nature of the scene, where ‘bedroom studios’ were hubs of innovation and creativity.
Pioneering Influence
Katherine Green from Rendezvous Projects explains, “In the mainstream narratives of jungle and drum and bass, the influence of Brain Records and its distinct sound is often overlooked. This exhibition seeks to honor these true pioneers who played a crucial role in shaping the UK music scene.”
“Bizzy B and the crew around Brain Records, particularly through their innovative use of technology like the Commodore Amiga, have made a lasting impact on the genre and deserve recognition.”
Meena Sears is Mixmag’s Digital Intern, follow her on Instagram
FAQs
Q: What is the main focus of the exhibition at the University of Greenwich?
A: The exhibition explores the influence of Brain Records on the development of UK hardcore and jungle music.
Q: When does the exhibition run and is there an entry fee?
A: The exhibition runs from October 11 to November 2 and is free to enter.
Q: What is the significance of Brain Records’ use of Amiga computers and OctaMED software?
A: Brain Records’ innovative use of technology helped shape the breakbeat sound and pave the way for new music production techniques.
Q: How did Brain Records contribute to the evolution of jungle and hardcore music genres?
A: Brain Records worked with influential producers and played a vital role in the evolution of both music genres.
Credit: mixmag.net
