Evolution of UK electronic music, ‘from Doctor Who to acid house’, explored in new book
Dream Machines will trace the evolution of electronic music in the UK, from its avant-garde, post-WW2 beginnings to the dance music of today
A new book authored by Matthew Collin will explore the evolution UK electronic music through the 20th century.
Dream Machines: Electronic Music in Britain From Doctor Who to Acid House will trace the history of electronic music in the UK: starting from its avant-garde beginnings just post-World War Two, through periods of psychedelia, art-rock and synth-pop, to the electronic dance, sample-based music and techno of today.
Out on 11th April and published through Omnibus Press, the book will include interviews with key figures, covering various genres such as space rock, electro-pop, ambient, dub, industrial music, hip-hop, house and more.
Dream Machines will also focus on societal shifts and how technology has influenced British electronic music. Pre-order a copy here.
The book will build upon Collin's previous works, including Altered State: The Story of Ecstasy Culture and Acid House, published in 1997, and Rave On: Global Adventures in Electronic Dance Music, published in 2018.
Speaking about the book in a comment, DJ Paulette said: "Collin delights in showing that it’s the coexistence and implementation of challenging and clashing ideas that continually break new ground and change the game. This is my kind of music and an essential book."
Last month, a new book that explores the impact of synths and new tech on R&B was announced. Let The Music Play: How R&B Fell In Love With 80s Synths, authored by journalist and editor Steven Vass, has been published through Velocity Press and is now available. You can purchase a copy here.
DJ Paullete’s autobiography, Welcome to the Club: The Life and Lessons of a Black Woman DJ, also dropped last month. You can pick up a copy here.
Revisit DJ Mag’s list of the 11 essential books about electronic music for more good reads.
