The artists who made the template. In Season 2 we’re delving into the very origins of the underground cassette music scene from the late 70s and early 80s, featuring insights from key musicians who revolutionised independent music production.

“We didn’t think much of the establishment and capitalism, instead of demonstrating against it, we thought we’d create another world which existed outside of it.” Jonathan Barnett of Fuck Off Records encapsulates the revolutionary mindset of the post-Punk movement.

Mark Lancaster, Phillip Sanderson, Jonathan Barnett, Colin Potter and others share their experiences of challenging the mainstream music industry through a low key yet radical DIY approach. Snatch Tapes, Fuck Off Records, Deleted Records, Integrated Circuit Records were all part of the wave that shaped a template for what was to come.

The narrative explores how musicians rejected traditional music production methods, creating an alternative world of sound and creativity. Cassettes emerged as a powerful medium of expression, offering an affordable and accessible way for artists to record and distribute their music. The episode highlights the punk-inspired ethos of independent music creation, emphasising a spirit of rebellion against established structures and the building of a community.

Listeners will discover a fascinating network of musicians who connected through fanzines, music papers, and tape exchanges. The collaborative culture transcended traditional genre boundaries, with artists supporting each other’s experimental sounds and independent productions. Phillip Sanderson’s innovative approach of dismantling radios to create electronic noises exemplifies the creative spirit of the cassette culture.

The documentary provides a deep dive into a pivotal moment in music history, showcasing how independent artists used technology and collaboration to challenge the traditional music industry. It’s a testament to creativity, DIY spirit, and the power of grassroots music production.

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Deleted Records & The Instant Automatons From North of England bedrooms to Rough Trade shelves. The Instant Automatons and the birth of the UK cassette underground.

Integrated Circuits: Colin Potter, ICR and the Cassette Network Story of the independent label, recording studio and electronic pioneers connecting Nurse With Wound, Current 93 and The Legendary Pink Dots.

Under the Westway: 1979 Portobello Punks F*ck Off Records, Alternative TV, Danny & The Dressmakers and The Androids of Mu at the intersection of hippie idealism and punk DIY.

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