Back in the late 90s, James Ford and Jas Shaw were studying biology at and philosophy respectively at Manchester University, while crafting strange electronic music in the spare room of their shared house. Fellow student Simon Lord, a folk-influenced singer-songwriter, caught wind of the duo’s sonic experiments, and along with bass player Alex MacNaughten they formed the band Simian. In order to sate their love of electronic party music, James and Jas booked themselves DJ dates while touring with Simian. They’d finish a gig and then run off to play electro records to small, sweaty rooms full of people who often seemed to be having lots more fun than the audiences at their gigs. As a pisstake, they called themselves Simian Mobile Disco.
Fuck Buttons / Flight of the Feathered Serpent Lovely, noisy, messy, dreamy, and it’s got a great name.
Sleeping States has been an ongoing musical project for ex-Midlander, ex-East Anglian, ex-Londoner and current Bristolian, Markland Starkie, since 2004. Originally inspired by the energy and DIY ethos of labels such as K Records in the US and Slampt in the UK, Markland has released a slew of records of various formats and lengths on numerous micro- and independent labels, both in the UK and abroad over the past five years. These releases, embracing the more lo-fi end of the recording spectrum, skip from genre to genre, from introspective folk to synth pop to choral doo wop, though always at the heart of his experimentation and exploration are confident melodies, minimal arrangements and a strong sense of romance.
Sonic Youth / Schizophrenia A blast of one of the most innovative guitar bands of the last 25 years, at their best. With its lyrics influenced by pulp science fiction, chiming guitar reaching a squalling climax towards the end, and a surprisingly melodic breakdown for a band so focused on discord, it never fails to please. Plus, the opening drumbeat sets my spine a-tingling every time I hear it.
My Secret Playlist is a music discovery website and weekly email publication. We invite our favourite bands and musicians to give us the rundown on their eight favourite songs right now. These are their words on the music that inspires them.
