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Though arguably most prominent in the ’90s, free parties and illegal raves have never gone away. Despite the increased surveillance from authorities, passionate DJs and sound systems continue to throw events in a similar way that they always have, looking to create a sense of community and an alternative to the commodified dance mainstream. Dave Jenkins heads to a free party, and speaks to some of the illegal rave scene’s advocates about why they keep the fire burning

1st May 1994 was the first big London protest against the looming Criminal Justice Bill, the piece of legislation that first proscribed a genre of music — rave music, “wholly or predominantly categorised by the emission of a succession of repetitive beats” — in law. Despite widespread demonstrations at what was seen as draconian power-grabs by the UK authorities, the Bill became law later in 1994. Here, Harold Heath looks back at the reaction from the dance music community at the time, and the Act’s lasting impact on the rave scene today

Amidst the horrors of russia's war on Ukraine, local DJs, producers and music professionals have had their lives ripped apart, but many have passionately continued their work at home and abroad, using their experience to provide funds and direct aid to causes on the ground. Here, Tanya Voytko talks to artists from across the country about their personal experiences over the past six months, and to learn how they’re striving to preserve and promote their rich and diverse electronic music culture