He has also been involved in various other projects, including a BBC Radio 4 show called The Sound of the City.

The Unconventional Career Path of Tom Jenkinson, aka Squarepusher

Tom Jenkinson, better known by his stage name Squarepusher, is a British electronic music artist who has been making waves in the music industry for over two decades. With a career spanning multiple genres and mediums, Jenkinson’s path to success is anything but conventional.

From Electronic Music to Children’s Television

Jenkinson’s journey began in the world of electronic music, where he gained recognition for his unique blend of breakbeat and jazz influences. However, in a surprising turn of events, he found himself working on a BBC children’s show called Daydreams. The programme aimed to help kids unwind and get to sleep, a far cry from the high-energy beats that Jenkinson was known for.

His unique sound is characterized by complex rhythms and intricate basslines that have captivated audiences worldwide.

The Rise of Squarepusher

Squarepusher’s rise to fame began in the early 1990s, when he started performing in the UK’s underground electronic music scene. He gained recognition for his innovative and energetic live performances, which often featured him playing multiple instruments simultaneously. Key characteristics of Squarepusher’s early performances:

• • Unpredictable rhythms and time signatures
• • Intricate basslines that showcased his technical skill
• • High-energy stage presence that drew in crowds

As his reputation grew, Squarepusher began to attract attention from major labels and industry professionals. In 1996, he released his debut album Feed Me Weird Things, which received critical acclaim and helped establish him as a rising star in the electronic music scene.

The Evolution of Squarepusher’s Sound

Over the years, Squarepusher has continued to evolve and experiment with his sound. He has incorporated a wide range of influences and styles into his music, from jazz and rock to hip-hop and classical.

The Long-Awaited Return

After a six-year hiatus, Be Up A Hello marks the return of singer-songwriter Be Up A Hello to the music scene. The album is a culmination of the artist’s experiences, emotions, and reflections over the past few years, and it’s clear that the wait has been worth it.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

The album’s title, Be Up A Hello, is a phrase that has become synonymous with the artist’s music. It’s a phrase that embodies the idea of embracing the unknown, being open to new experiences, and finding one’s own path in life. The album is a reflection of this journey, with each song exploring different themes and emotions. The opening track, “Hello”, sets the tone for the album, with its catchy melody and introspective lyrics. The second track, “Lost in the Haze”, is a more introspective and melancholic song, exploring the pain of heartbreak and the struggle to move on.

Despite the obstacles, he was determined to complete the album.

The Making of Be Up A Hello

The album was produced during a period of great personal turmoil for the Tom Jenkinson, aka Squarepusher. In January, he broke his wrist, which forced him to wear a cast for several weeks. This injury was a significant setback, but it did not deter Tom from completing his album. In fact, he was determined to finish the project despite the challenges. The cast made it difficult for Tom to play the piano, which was a crucial instrument in the album’s production. He had to rely on his other instruments, such as the synthesizer and the drum machine, to create the music.

Bringing people together through music that evokes emotions and sparks conversations.

She wanted to create music that would bring people together, not just to sell records or gain fame. She wanted to create music that would make people feel something, to evoke emotions and spark conversations.

The Birth of a New Sound

The singer’s vision was to create a sound that was both nostalgic and modern. She drew inspiration from the 1970s and 1980s, but with a twist. She wanted to incorporate elements of electronic music, hip-hop, and R&B into her sound, creating a unique blend that would appeal to a wide range of audiences. Key elements of the new sound: + Incorporation of electronic beats and synthesizers + Use of hip-hop and R&B influences + Nostalgic references to 1970s and 1980s music + Emphasis on catchy melodies and hooks

Experimentation and Innovation

The singer spent countless hours in the studio, experimenting with different sounds and techniques. She worked with a team of producers and musicians to bring her vision to life. Together, they pushed the boundaries of what was possible, creating a sound that was both innovative and timeless.

“We were all just messing about, trying to make music, and it was all just a bit of fun.”

The Early Days of Synthwave

The early days of synthwave were marked by experimentation and creativity. The group, consisting of Chris Marshall and his friends, spent countless hours in their bedrooms, tinkering with synthesizers and creating their own unique sounds. They drew inspiration from classic video games, sci-fi movies, and 80s pop culture.

The news was devastating for Jenkinson, who had been deeply attached to his friend and mentor. He was particularly saddened by the loss of Marshall’s guidance and support, which had been invaluable to him during his early days as a young journalist.

The Impact of Marshall’s Death on Jenkinson’s Life

Marshall’s death had a profound impact on Jenkinson’s life, both personally and professionally. He was forced to confront the harsh realities of life and death, and the fragility of human existence. The loss of Marshall’s guidance and support left Jenkinson feeling lost and uncertain about his future. The loss of Marshall’s mentorship had a significant impact on Jenkinson’s writing style and approach to journalism. Jenkinson struggled to find his own voice and identity as a journalist, feeling lost without Marshall’s guidance.

Early Beginnings

• The artist’s fascination with the inner workings of synthesizers and drum machines led him to experiment with DIY projects. He spent countless hours disassembling and reassembling equipment to understand its inner mechanics. This hands-on approach to music production eventually led him to create his own instruments and effects. ## The Rise of a New Sound*

The Rise of a New Sound

• As he delved deeper into the world of electronic music, he began to develop his own unique sound. His early work was heavily influenced by the likes of Aphex Twin and Squarepusher. The artist’s innovative approach to sound design and production caught the attention of the electronic music scene. ## Collaborations and Breakthroughs*

Collaborations and Breakthroughs

• He began collaborating with other artists and producers, pushing the boundaries of his sound. His work with other musicians led to a breakthrough in his career, earning him recognition within the electronic music community. The artist’s unique sound and style began to gain traction, attracting new fans and opportunities. ## The Artist’s Journey*

The Artist’s Journey

• Throughout his journey, the artist has remained true to his passion for music and innovation. His dedication to his craft has led to a distinctive sound that sets him apart from others. As he continues to evolve and push the boundaries of electronic music, his legacy as a pioneering artist is cemented. As a young person exploring synths and drum machines in his bedroom in Chelmsford, Essex, music was primarily a hobby. It was an early interest in the mechanical properties of music equipment that acted as a gateway to a world of creativity and innovation.

  They will be performing at several festivals and venues, including the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado.

  The Evolution of the Band’s Sound

  The band’s sound has undergone significant changes since their early days. They have been influenced by a wide range of genres, including rock, pop, and electronic music. One of the key factors in their evolution was the introduction of new sounds and techniques by guitarist Guthrie Govan. Govan’s playing style, which combines elements of rock, jazz, and classical music, has been a major influence on the band’s sound. Some of the key features of the band’s sound include: + Heavy use of synthesizers and electronic elements + Intricate guitar work and complex time signatures + Powerful vocals and catchy melodies

  The Impact of Influences on the Band’s Music

  The band’s music has been shaped by a diverse range of influences, including Detroit techno and acid house. These genres have introduced new sounds and techniques that have been incorporated into the band’s music.

  His unique blend of electronic music and live performance was unlike anything else at the 1994 London DJ Awards, where he won the award for Best Newcomer.

  The Rise of A Guy Called Gerald

  In the early 1990s, A Guy Called Gerald was starting to make a name for himself in the UK club scene. He was one of the first artists to gain recognition for his innovative use of the Roland TB-303 synthesizer, a device that was still relatively new and untested at the time. Gerald’s unique sound was a fusion of house, techno, and breakbeat, which quickly gained popularity among club-goers. Key features of A Guy Called Gerald’s sound: + Heavy use of the Roland TB-303 synthesizer + Fusion of house, techno, and breakbeat styles + Unique blend of electronic music and live performance

  The Impact of A Guy Called Gerald’s Music

  A Guy Called Gerald’s music had a significant impact on the UK club scene in the 1990s. His innovative use of the Roland TB-303 synthesizer helped to popularize the device and paved the way for other artists to experiment with its capabilities. Gerald’s music also influenced a generation of DJs and producers, who were inspired by his unique sound and style. Examples of A Guy Called Gerald’s influential music: + “Voodoo Ray” (1991) + “Supernature” (1992) + “Hot Lemonade” (1993)

  The Legacy of A Guy Called Gerald

  A Guy Called Gerald’s legacy extends far beyond his own music.

  The Origins of Conflict

  Jenkinson’s disdain for the music department began when he was a student at the school. He felt that the curriculum was too focused on traditional music theory and not enough on contemporary and experimental sounds. This led to a series of heated debates with his music teachers, who he felt were out of touch with the changing musical landscape. Some of his most memorable arguments were with the school’s music director, who he felt was too rigid in his approach to music education. Jenkinson’s frustration with the music department was further exacerbated by the lack of resources and equipment available to students. Despite these challenges, Jenkinson persevered and continued to pursue his passion for music, even if it meant finding alternative ways to express himself.

  The Evolution of Conflict

  As Jenkinson grew older, his conflicts with the music department evolved. He began to see the department as a symbol of the establishment, and his own music as a way to challenge and subvert those norms. Jenkinson’s music often incorporated elements of noise, avant-garde, and experimental sounds, which were not typically taught in the music department. He saw his music as a way to push boundaries and challenge the status quo, rather than simply following traditional musical structures. This approach led to a series of internal conflicts with the music department, as they struggled to understand and appreciate his unique perspective.

  The Current State of Conflict

  Today, Jenkinson’s conflicts with the music department are largely internal.

  The Concept of Latency

  Latency refers to the delay between the time a musician thinks of a musical idea and the time it is heard in the recording. This delay can be caused by various factors, including the time it takes for the musician to physically play the instrument, the time it takes for the signal to travel through cables, and the time it takes for the signal to be processed by the equipment. In the context of Damogen Furies’ Be Up A Hello, latency is seen as a major obstacle to creative expression. Factors contributing to latency include: + Physical instrument limitations + Cable signal degradation + Equipment processing time + Human error

  Minimizing Latency

  To minimize latency, Damogen Furies’ Be Up A Hello employs a range of techniques, including:

• Using high-quality, low-latency equipment
• Implementing signal processing techniques to reduce delay
• Employing creative workarounds to bypass traditional recording methods
• Collaborating with musicians who can provide real-time feedback

The Role of Analogue Equipment

Analogue equipment is used in Be Up A Hello to reduce latency and create a more direct connection between the musician’s ideas and the recording.

He believes that this trend is a result of the increasing popularity of electronic music and the desire to stand out in a crowded market. He thinks that the more spectacular the show, the more attention the artist will receive, and therefore, the more successful they will be.

The Rise of Spectacle in Electronic Music

The recent surge in popularity of electronic music has led to a growing trend of musicians trying to outdo each other in terms of spectacle. This trend is characterized by elaborate light shows, pyrotechnics, and other visual effects that are designed to dazzle and entertain the audience. While some may argue that this trend is a positive development, the musician in question is skeptical of its merits.

The Motivations Behind the Trend

• The desire to stand out in a crowded market
• The need to compete with other artists for attention and success
• The pressure to produce a show that will leave a lasting impression on the festival-goers

The musician believes that this trend is driven by the increasing popularity of electronic music and the desire to stand out in a crowded market. With the rise of social media, artists are now more aware than ever of the importance of creating a visually stunning show that will generate buzz and attract new fans.

He has also worked with artists like John Cage and Laurie Anderson. He has been involved in various projects with the avant-garde music group, The Residents. He has also worked with the avant-garde music group, The Residents, on several occasions.

The Collaborative Spirit of Jenkinson

Jenkinson’s collaborations with renowned artists have been instrumental in shaping his unique sound and style. His work with visionaries like Chris Cunningham, John Cage, and Laurie Anderson has not only influenced his artistic approach but has also provided him with invaluable insights and perspectives. Key collaborations:

• Chris Cunningham: Known for his experimental and avant-garde approach to music, Cunningham has been a significant influence on Jenkinson’s work. John Cage: A pioneer of indeterminacy and aleatoric music, Cage’s innovative approach has inspired Jenkinson’s own experimental style. Laurie Anderson: A pioneer of electronic music and performance art, Anderson’s work has influenced Jenkinson’s use of technology and multimedia elements in his music. ## The Avant-Garde Music Scene

The Avant-Garde Music Scene

Jenkinson’s involvement with the avant-garde music scene has been a defining aspect of his career. His work with The Residents, a group known for their experimental and anonymous approach to music, has been particularly significant. The Residents:

• Known for their anonymous identity and experimental approach to music.

  “I just make music because I enjoy it, and I enjoy it because I enjoy the process of making it.” This carefree attitude towards music has led to a diverse and eclectic discography that defies categorization.

  The Unpredictable Nature of Squarepusher’s Music

  Squarepusher’s music is a masterclass in unpredictability. From the moment you press play, you’re in for a wild ride. The beats are complex, the melodies are intricate, and the rhythms are constantly shifting. It’s like being on a rollercoaster, but instead of a physical ride, you’re experiencing the thrill of the music. The use of polyrhythms and time signatures is a hallmark of Squarepusher’s sound. He often employs multiple rhythms at once, creating a sense of tension and release that keeps the listener on their toes. The incorporation of electronic elements, such as synthesizers and drum machines, adds a layer of depth and texture to the music. But what really sets Squarepusher apart is his ability to blend different styles and genres. He seamlessly integrates elements of jazz, rock, and hip-hop into his music, creating a unique sound that’s both familiar and innovative.

  The Evolution of Squarepusher’s Sound

  Over the years, Squarepusher’s sound has evolved significantly. He’s experimented with new techniques, incorporated new instruments, and pushed the boundaries of what’s possible with electronic music. In the early days, Squarepusher was heavily influenced by jazz and hip-hop. His music was characterized by complex rhythms and intricate melodies. As he progressed, he began to incorporate more rock and metal elements into his sound.

• Be Up A Hello is a 12-track album by the British rock band, The Darkness, including the singles “Be Up A Hello”, “One Way Ticket”, and “Love Is Easy”. The album was released in the 2000s but was re-released in ## The Darkness: A Legacy of Rock ‘n’ Roll

The Darkness: A Legacy of Rock ‘n’ Roll

The Darkness is a British rock band known for their theatrical and bombastic style, which has captivated audiences for over two decades. Formed in 2000, the band consists of Justin Hawkins (lead vocals, guitar), Dan Hawkins (guitar), Frankie Poulsen (bass), and Rufus Taylor (drums). With their unique blend of glam rock, hard rock, and pop, The Darkness has become a staple of the rock music scene.

The Re-Release of Be Up A Hello

In 2023, The Darkness released their 12-track album, Be Up A Hello, on Warp Records. This re-release marks a significant milestone in the band’s career, as it brings their classic album to a new generation of fans. The album features the singles “Be Up A Hello”, “One Way Ticket”, and “Love Is Easy”, which have become fan favorites. Key tracks on the album include: + “Be Up A Hello” – a catchy, upbeat single that showcases the band’s ability to craft infectious hooks.