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. 

Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.

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Chloé Caillet's career has blown up expodentially in the last couple of years and now with her LGBTQ+ party series SMIILE currently touring the world, the DJ, producer, label owner and party starter sits down with Paul to reflect on her journey.

Growing up between Paris, New York and London, Chloé taps into her rock origins, unveiling her advocacy for Queer party values and talks about balancing the demanding rhythm of a music career with the essential practices of mindfulness, fitness, and therapy. The episode pulsates with Chloe's drive to remain authentic in an industry that constantly evolves, and her insights are a beacon for those navigating the frenetic world of music and self-discovery.

This week's episode isn't just about beats and basslines; it's an anthem to the spaces that music creates and the communities it builds. Our conversation dives into the symbiotic dance between DJing, production, and the influence of diverse musical spaces – from band nights in Paris to the ecstatic communion of raves. We revel in the shared energy that courses through genres, binding the likes of Andrew Weatherall with the unadulterated joy of discovery.

Chloé and Paul round off with a reflection on the scene's metamorphosis, the social fabric of past and present raves, and the how social media is altering underground culture. We share the electric buzz of creating inclusive, empowering spaces that resonate with authenticity, as evidenced by a transformative party in Los Angeles where barriers were joyfully dismantled.

Follow SMIILE

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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. 

Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.

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Luke Slater has remained an authentic titan in underground clubland for over 35 years. Among the very first European DJs and producers to be influenced by the techno and house coming out of Detroit and Chicago, he speaks with Paul ahead of the release of his new LB Dub Corp album.

Luke and Paul dissect the seismic cultural shifts that propelled a once clandestine scene into a global phenomenon, pondering the balance between the rebellious soul of the genre and its mainstream allure. The dialogue ventures into the impact of technology on music creation, revealing how artists like Slater are not just navigating but shaping this science-fiction reality we live in today.

The episode crescendos as we explore Slater's alchemic process of fusing diverse musical influences, from dub to collaborating with legends like Robert Owens and a spontaneous musical partnership with Miss Kitten. As we recount the journey of Planetary Assault Systems and the birth of tracks shaped by the unique acoustics of venues like Berghain, we draw back the curtain on the philosophy that drives this techno virtuoso's life and art.

The new LB Dub Corp album ‚Saturn To Home‘ is out on Dekmantel on May 24th 2024. Pre-order it here.

Paul Hanford on Instagram

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. 

Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.

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Imagine stepping into a studio where the walls echo with a fusion of alt-pop and club ready electronic innovation, colored with the vibrant heritage of Honduran American culture. That's the journey we embark upon with multi-hyphenate Lorely Rodriguez, better known as Empress Of. Lorely doesn't just talk about her music, she takes us through the raw and transformative process of her creative process.

The conversation takes us deeper, where the art of music production unfolds in its most genuine form. Stripping back the layers, Lorely muses on how the simplest of melodies can sometimes reveal the true strength of a composition. The chat turns to tales of stepping into the unknown, embracing the newness of a studio gadget, or the raw vulnerability of an acoustic performance.

For Your Consideration by Empress Of is available now here.

Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 

Paul Hanford on Instagram

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. 

Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.

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Sebastian Mullaert, prodigious electronic musician and former classical violist, voted by Resident Advisor as one of the world’s top live acts and twice Swedish Grammy nominated, reveals the enigmatic blend of spontaneity and meticulous craftsmanship that defines his practice, from his transition into electronic music, his acclaimed Circle Of Live project and his latest collaborative project HIND with Henrik Frendin.

The essence of creativity and connection takes centre stage in this episode, where the interplay between intellect and emotion in music is dissected. Sebastian explores the transformative power of presence in the artistic process. Music lovers and creators alike will find resonance in our discussion on the challenges of pop production, and the importance of infusing recordings with the authenticity of the human touch.

Finally, we challenge conventional notions of creativity, venturing beyond the quantifiable into the realm of natural energy and life force. In a society that often equates creativity with productivity, Sebastian advocates for an approach that honours the ebb and flow of the artistic cycle, emphasising the importance of nurturing an environment where artists can truly thrive. Sebastian Mullaert's insights serve as both inspiration and invitation to rediscover the joys of unfettered artistic expression.

The album HIND – Sebastian‘s collaboration with Henrik Frendin is released 24th May via Lamour Records, pre-order it here.

Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 

Paul Hanford on Instagram

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. 

Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.

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Alt R&B sonic sculptor Eddington Again and I shared stories of our creative voyages—one leading to the bustling streets of Berlin, and the other to the quiet solitude of a writing nook. In our latest episode, the songwriter, singer and composer delves into their artistic metamorphosis, charting a course from their West Coast beginnings to the introspective melodies of their debut album "Naomi 9." Our conversation taps into how physical spaces, from sun-kissed coasts to the brooding German capital, leave an indelible mark on artistic expression.

There's an unspoken language in the meticulous composition of music, much like the careful curation of a living space. This episode peels back the layers of Eddington Again‘s songwriting craft, where each note is placed with intention, telling its own story. We wax poetic about the pressures of industry demands and the constant pursuit of output, celebrating the purest form of expression that emerges despite, or perhaps because of, these challenges. It's a dialogue that honors the intricate dance of creating art that resonates with the soul of listeners.

Finally, we bridge the gap between solitude and the rich tapestry of collaboration. Reflecting on the transition from pen to keyboard, and how our individual journeys through isolation can unexpectedly fuel the creative flames. Eddington Again opens up about the dynamics of working solo versus in harmony with others, and the search for those rare collaborators who share the same fervor for music.

Eddington Again‘s album Naomi9 is out now on !K7 Records here

Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 

Paul Hanford on Instagram

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. 

Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.

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Have you ever wondered what it takes to assert artistic independence in the ever-changing maelstrom of the music industry? Alt popstar Allie X joins us this week to unravel the tapestry of her career, from the depths of Canada's underground to her rise to stardom, and the creative force behind her latest LP "The Girl With No Face." Together, we traverse the terrain of her musical influences, the unmistakable imprint of '80s new wave and synthpop on her work, and the challenges she had been secretly braving in the industry.

Through tales of attending legendary rock concerts to embracing the nuances of goth culture, we celebrate the journey of music-making and the intimate relationship between influence and personal expression. Allie X pulls back the curtain on the meticulous craft of album production, from the steep learning curves to mastering Ableton Live—all through the lens of an artist who maintains control over every beat of her journey.

As the spotlight intensifies, we get real about the seldom-discussed intersection of chronic illness and the music industry. The conversation shifts to the raw and vulnerable aspects of Allie X's life, challenging the norms of what it means to be a public figure with private battles. Hear how the power of fan support emboldens authenticity and risk-taking in an artist's evolution. We wrap up with the emotional highs and lows that accompany an artist's trajectory, emphasizing the significance of resilience and the profound impact of a community that listens and lifts each other up through the rhythm of life.

The Girl With No Face is available now, order it here.

Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 

Paul Hanford on Instagram

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. 

Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.

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Step into the ambient world of trailblazer Dr. Alex Paterson of The Orb, sharing his captivating story on Lost in Sound. Our journey with Alex takes us from the inception of ambient house to his acoustic adventures with the Sedibus project, all while uncovering the artistic vigor that has fueled his five-decade-long voyage through the music industry. We relish the nostalgia of chart-topping victories, a totally surreal chess-themed performance on Top of the Pops, and delve into the enduring resonance of "Little Fluffy Clouds."

With laughter and earnest reflection, Alex recalls the exuberance of the acid house scene, his time as a roadie for Killing Joke, and the antics of The KLF, painting a vibrant picture of the friendships and chaos that shaped an era. This episode isn't just a look back at the past; it's a testament to music's timeless journey and the undying passion that drives an artist like Alex, who eschews retirement and zeitgeist for the relentless pursuit of creation.

Finally, through candid anecdotes and personal memories, Alex provides insight into the lasting influence of late artists, muses humorously about secret islands for escaping fame, and shares how non-traditional musicians like himself have brought new sounds to the forefront. From wild rave stories to the enduring friendships forged in the heat of the acid house scene's heyday, this episode is an affectionate homage to the rhythms that keep legends like Dr. Alex Patterson crafting the soundtrack of our lives.

The second Sedibus album ‘SETI’ out now on Orbscure Recordings, check it out here. 

Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 

Paul Hanford on Instagram

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. 

Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.

Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Embark on a journey through the innovative soundscape of Jasper Marsalis, known artistically as Slauson Malone 1, in a conversation that transcends the conventional boundaries of music genres. As we sit down with Jasper, we uncover the multifaceted layers of his album "Excelsior," a fusion of the avant-garde, alt R&B, and lo-fi rock that defies easy categorization. He talks about his rich heritage, his father being Pulitzer Prize winning jazz legend Winton Marsalis, yet this ain’t no nepo baby: Jasper is an acclaimed exhibiting visual artist and his music feels like the communication of a true outlier.

In a broader exploration of artistic expression, we tackle the subjective nature of art evaluation and the complex dynamics of inspiration. Through discussions on alter egos in music to the legacy of 60s experimental composers, we navigate the interwoven themes of music, societal commentary, and the creative legacy that define our cultural landscape. Jasper's reflections on balancing the weight of a musical family name with his individual path provide a candid glimpse into the world where personal history and artistic aspiration converge. Join us for this compelling episode, where we dissect the essence of what makes music a timeless form of human connection and self-expression.

Excelsior is out now on Warp Records

Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 

Paul Hanford on Instagram

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. 

Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.

Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Paul heads into a deep dive into the transformative world of improvised music, where Anenon aka Brian Allen Simon shares his artistic evolution. From crafting beats in LA's vibrant Low End Theory scene to the raw, unedited improv of his latest work 'Moons Melt Milk Lights,' we uncover the emotional resonance that springs forth when production veils are lifted.

Embark on a journey through the creative ebbs and flows that define a musician's life, as Anenon recounts his transition from a digital realm to the tangible immediacy of live performance. The quiet of the pandemic served as an unlikely muse, presenting Anenon with the time to refine his mastery of saxophone and piano – a path that culminated in an album unmarked by edits, a pure expression of presence and vulnerability.

Moons Melt Milk Light is out now on Tonal Union

Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 

Paul Hanford on Instagram

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. 

Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.

Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins