Atmosphere #24

atmosphere ISSUE 24 JULY 1995 DILLINJA PHOTEK STATESIDE REPORT ADAM F T-POWER KING JUST MASTER VIBE DJ HIXXY FORMATION RECORDS

contents 9 Dillinja 10 Photek 12 Formation 17 DJ Hixxy 18 Adam F 21 King Just 23 T - Power 24 Mastervibe 28 Clubs 32 The Stateside 34 Albums 37 Slipmatts 4 beat 39 Charts 40 Trade Secrets 41 Listings 42 Hypes selection 43 Trax 45 Adams house 48 Crossover 58 MC Navigator WELCOME TO ANOTHER MONTH OF ATMOSPHERE As you will notice this month we have an Interview with King Just from USA this is the introduction to our Hip Hop section which we will be starting next month. If you have any views or opinions about the editorial content in Atmosphere don't be afraid to write and express your feelings. Onto parties and there are a few planned such as a big outdoor event from Dreamscape with a 54 DJ line up with megastars from the Techno, House and Garage circuits. In 3 tents, 1 massive outdoor arena, full funfair with helicopter rides and hot Air balloon's - looks set to go down in history !! Also Destiny/The Cream are starting up a weekly Friday night club in Southend with Myself (Frenzic) and Tracks as residents and guests such as JJ Frost, SS, Swane, Micky Finn, Ramos, Brockie, Grooverider, Dougal, Dark Noise and many others with MC Carnage - phone Atmosphere for details. United dance's next party is on the 11th Aug at the usual venue. Desire's second excursion to the Sanctuary is on the 29th July, while on the 22nd July Jungle Rock return to Bristol for what's set to be a massive bash. Unfortunately the much talked about Amazon in Wolverhampton has closed down due to an incident at the club, but you've still got UK Midlands also in Wolves plus the regular friday night bash at The Institute in Birmingham with people like Thunder + Joy and Roast guesting out, August sees the return of World Dance to Lydd in Kent. Album news now and AWOL are set to release the live recording from The Ministry on the 24th July on the Ministry label, Jungle Massive 4 is set for release soon on Labello and Formation are to release their Highly Recommended LP in August. That's about it for this month. Don't forget the 2nd Jungle fever of 1995 which is also the 2nd birthday party of Fever to be held at the Sanctuary on 26 Aug (Carnival Fever) - gonna be large. Jungle Fever would like it to be known that Gunshot promotions who recently held an event called Jungle Fever in Norwich are in no way connected and if you have any queries about Fever to phone the office 0181 806 0996. Editor - DJ Frenzic Contributors - Dark Noise, Adam Carter, Mati Parks, Akrasi, Roni Size, Slipmatt, DJ Hype, Nyome, Jason Berry, DJ Tracks. Photography - Tristan. Design - The Studio Atmosphere 17 Gordon road, Southend on sea, Essex, SS1 1NJ. Tel : 01702 344384. Facsimile : 01702 463343.

PHOTEK When did you first become involved with production? - I started about '92 working with Rob from Origination - My first solo 12' was as Studio Pressure on Certificate 18. Were you involved with anything before production? - Yeah, but I never got caught....... Have you worked for any other labels? - Yeah - Photek (My own label), Good Looking, Basement, Mo Wax, Prototype, A.R.T etc. How did you decide on your name? - Me and Mark (The designer who created the Photek logo) came up with the name, we just thought that the name suited the logo. Have you ever DJ'ed or PA'ed? - I did some PA's a couple of years ago with Origination at Lazerdrome, Astoria etc but spending so much time in the studio has stopped me from getting into Djing. I get asked to play out quite a lot but I have had to turn the work down, although nearer the end of the year I am going to take some time out for Djing. Is there a certain vibe you look to create when producing a track? - I usually let the track create it's own vibe as I go along, but I always look for certain rhythms and the track always has to have some sort of mood to it, whether it's soulful, dark or whatever. Who or what would you say influences you musically? - I get influences from all the different music that I've listened to through the years from Jazz to Rare Groove, from House to Reggae. Have you done any remix work? - yeah, I've remixed 'E Z rollers' for Moving Shadow, 'Blueprint' for Mo Wax and I am working on a remix of 'Still Life' at the moment for Goldie. As a producer what would you like to see yourself doing in say a years time? - As well as still working on Drum + Bass projects I would like to try a few other styles as well. 'Into the 90's' on my Metal heads 12" is the first non jungle tune that I've done - it's a 90bpm kind of jazzy beats instrumental. What does the Metalheads label mean to you? - Hedz iz headz. Shouts : Yeah, Big up the Peshay and all those that know.

DILLINJA When did you first become involved with production? - I first got involved in 1991, my first release was 'Tear off your chest' which had a rollin B line for the time. Were you involved with anything before production? - Before production I was running my own sound system, building bass bins and experimenting with internal designs to achieve the chronic deep bass that I was obsessed with. Have you worked with any other labels? - I've worked with labels such as Logic, V Records, IQ, Lion heart, Metal heads, Deadly Vinyl, Blunts, Cybertron, Target, IMC, Sony, MCA, Ninja Tunes, London Records and Suburban bass. How did you decide on your name? - My friend Raff named me. Have you ever DJ'ed or PA'ed? - I used to DJ before I started producing, I played at parties and clubs but when I first went into a Digital studio I knew DJing was over. Is there a certain vibe you look to create when producing a track? - No. Who or what would you say influences you musically? - Lonnie Listan Smith, Sade and Drums. Have you done any remix work? - I've done remixes for Goldie, Shabba, Jazzie B, Alex Reece and Trinity. As a producer what would you like to see yourself doing in say a years time? - In a years time I'd like to see my new label running neat and projects with Metal heads rollin smooth, logical progression is the future. What does the Metal heads label mean to you? - Goldies label metal heads is a serious label that releases real music for the open minded, phat beats and real bass. Shout to my DJ Regulate, and respect due to Lemon D, Goldie, Frost, Bryan G, Roni Size + Krust, Clarky, Trace, Ray Keith, Nicky Blackmarket, Andy C, and all at Metal heads, V Recordings and NUT entertainment.

FORMATION FORMATION RECORDS was set up in 1989 after a good response to a white label Leroy (DJ SS) had done which came to be known as 'The Psycho EP'. If you were around then you would know that Leroy's nickname was 'The Turntable Psycho' due to his frenzied scratching. Formation was set up Leroy and his partner Eidris. The original inspiration to start the label was the rave scene, the parties and the urge to release a record, the first release being Form 12001 'The Psycho EP'. How do you feel the label has progressed since then? Well considering Formation records was born in my bedroom I think we have progressed greatly. We now have a recording studio, promotions dept and merchandise dept and a following all over the world. The quality of the music we produce now is of a much higher standard and that counts for a lot also consistency you have to be consistent to stay up top. Are you involved in the running of any other labels? Yes, Formation is now a group of record labels which include 100% records which is a House label and has had 7 releases to date. Ruff Justice recordings which is a Soul and Hip Hop label and has had 6 releases and half a dozen artists. And of course Formation records now on it's 62nd release and god knows how many white label projects and a couple of albums. Tell us a bit about the 5HQ shop? 5HQ was opened in January 1992, Eidris already ran a Reggae and Soul shop in the city and we decided to open a specialist dance shop as Leicester didn't have one. When 5HQ first opened it sold all dance music on one counter and clothes on another counter. About 2 years ago the shop was fitted and we closed Sneakers (Soul Shop) and moved it into a closed off section of 5HQ, while doing this we opened a House and Garage section called Calm. So now 5HQ has 3 record counters, a clothes counter and a ticket box office selling tickets for most events. Around the country we have been told that we are one of the biggest shops in the Midlands but I suppose you would have to come down and see for yourself (Plug, Plug !!). Where did the names Formation and 5HQ come from? The name Formation came from a Hip Hop + Soul DJ and dance crew that we used to be in called Formation 5, 5HQ progressed from that. What artists do you currently have on

Formation? Artists currently signed to Formation are Tekniq, Mental Power and Ratty. 100% records are Real Touch Concept, Mr Whippy, Bert, State of Harmony, Peace of Mind and The Rhythm Division. Ruff Justice are Carla Thomas, Michael Alexander, DJ Yess + D Crime and Basil Dixon. Do you get approached by many people with possible releases for the label(s)? We get so many demo tapes that we cannot listen to all of them but very rarely do we come across something suitable for Formation. What advice would you give to these people? Basically if they know what they are doing and they are talented then stick at it you will strike it lucky one day. Someone will fing them if they are determined. You have a Formation compilation planned, tell us a bit about this? The album is called 'Highly Recommended' and is due to be released in late August, this will be an album of pure exclusive unreleased remixes and new tracks and that's all I can say for now as it is still in planning. How do you feel the compilation market for this music is going? We think that it is promoting the scene but we are not sure if it is promoting us in the proper manner. Well it's good in the sense that they are being promoted to a wider audience but it could damage the scene as we know it by making it too commercial. The music is not commercial but selling compilations to a mass will have some effect eventually. What do you see as being the best way to promote you releases? DJ's are by far the best way to promote your tracks. Circuit DJ's or radio DJ's they are the ones that get it heard. How do you feel about some records staying on dubplate for too long? That really depends on what you are going to do with the track. If it is to be put out on general release then it's not good to have it on dub for too long because there is such a high turnover Joe Public has gone off the tune and something else is hot by the time you release it. It's a good way of seeing if the tune creates a buzz as long as it is only 1 or 2 people playing it and it's not being heard at every event in the country it has it's pro's and con's but at the end of the day it is promotion and it's usually exclusive to a few people. How long on average are your releases on dub for? It depends on what we feel the track will do there is no specific answer to that question, it varies. What DJ's do you use to promote your tunes? Too many to mention but most of the DJ's on the circuit get promo's from us. What have been your biggest track to date for either sales or recognition? Without a doubt Sound of the Future's 'Lighter', although every EP DJ SS does out sells the last one. Did you find it hard getting recognised? Not really Formation has been there since the beginning and has a loyal following. Shouts Grooverider and everyone that has boosted Formation records - respect. Also Formation and the 5HQ staff , Pam, Blackvinyl, Magic, T baron, Vas, Tania, Anthony and Paul Rayner.

My name is Ian Hicks and I am 19 and will be 20 in August (Hint, Hint cards and prezzies please). I live in Portsmouth and also London during the week. I was inspired to DJ about 7 years ago, I used to like Public Enemy and got one of their videos for crimbo and saw their DJ Terminator X in full effect - mixing and scratching it up !!! After this I was hooked on getting some decks, so I started to buy vinyl every week which slowly changed from Rap music to Rave music. I got a pair of decks about a year later and slowly taught myself how to mix. I then started to shop in Fusion records in Portsmouth where I met Ramos, Supreme and Druid. The main reason I am where I am is thanks to Dj Supreme who came up to my house and heard me mixing, a week later he booked me for my first club which was in the Isle of Wight and the other DJ's were Dougal and Supreme. The night went quite well and afterwards he booked me again so the Isle of Wight became a regular visit every other weekend (max respect to Dj Supreme). My main inspirations when I first started getting into the ravescene were Frankie Valentine and Frankie 'Shag' Bones because of the tunes they played were always upfront and everytime I heard them their sets were different, now I am inspired by up and coming DJ's because if I slack off or get sloppy with my mixing then there will be someone ready to take my place. My name used to be Hixxy but I've changed it to Hixxy which is a phonetic way of spelling my last name. My first big break has to be Dreamscape which was mad, but when I came off the decks I didn't think I played that well, but when I listened to the tape it was alright and MC Sharky had done a good job (Respect). I think at the moment the music and the scene are absolutely wicked !!! The crowds are getting more mad, the venues and clubs better and all the DJ's and producers are making wicked tunes. My favourite venues have to be Rhythm station because I've got to know a lot of people who go there and Kinetic in Stoke, the crowd know how to party up there. As far as DJ's that I rate goes, definitely Ramos who always plays for the crowd, Druid and Brisk for their mixing ability and Slipmatt and Billy Bunter because they've both got 'Lovely Heads on them !!!'. MC's would be Knight, Marley, Freestyle and Sharky all for their originality. I have made a few tunes such as one on R.S.R recs, myself and Sunset Regime, a remix of 'On Top' Sense of Summer and 2 tracks for Universal, a joint project with Happy Tunes (Vol 4), a track with Sharky called 'Rhythm stations - Toy Town' and a couple with Dougal on our new label Essential Platinum also 2 for Hectic records a remix of Panic with Dj Druid (J.R. Hartly) and a new project with a lady called Trixxy. When I am not DJing or in the studio I go down to Fusion records and just doss about or go to London and get dubs cut which is a nightmare because there is normally a few of us and it takes hours (shout to all who attend late sessions and don't bottle out with feeble excuses, not mentioning no name cough, cough Slip cough Matt !). The best thing about DJing for me is the buzz you get from the crowd reaction from the tunes you play and after when people you don't know say they enjoyed your set ! - Best Buzz Shouts to everyone who knows me and especially Trixxy. D.J HIXXY PROFILE

Adam F Name : The 1st man. Age : 23. Lives : On the edge. WHAT WERE YOU DOING BEFORE MAKING TRACKS ? Giging with a Rare Groove band called 'Sound Insight' (Main singer / Keyboards / Percussion). Experimenting with Soul, Funk, Jazz, Ballads, Atmospheric film music and busking with a rasta called D'e, prior to that I was the gingerbread man in my school play. WHEN DID YOU START TAKING AN INTEREST IN THE MUSIC ? Music has been a part of me all my life but 'Hardstep / Jungle / Breakbeat' what ever you want to call it a year and a half ago. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT HOW THE MUSIC HAS PROGRESSED ? I'm pleased in the way I feel it's progressing to much more of a musical freedom style which suits me as I am a musical person, it's got to keep moving forward which I beleive it is and it's got to progress to stay alive. HAVE YOU DONE ANY REMIX WORK FOR ANY OTHER LABELS ? Yes, a DJ Harmony track on Moving Shadow and a DJ Pulse track which will be started on soon (Also on M.S.). HAVE ANY ARTISTS AS YET REMIXED YOUR WORK ? So far DJ Krust, Pascal, Nookie and Harmony. WHAT HAS INSPIRED THE STYLE OF YOUR TUNES ? Every tune I make is totally different but based on my emotions at the time. IS THERE ANY CERTAIN VIBE YOU LOOK TO CREATE WHEN WRITING A TRACK ? It depends if I am making a tune for 2,000 people to jump up or for 1 person to listen to with open ears. I prefer to feel things rather than look for specifics. HAVE YOU EVER P.A.ed ANYWHERE ? I have at the Astoria, Equinox and the Lazerdrome and I go to Asda every friday. WHAT DJ'S PROMOTE YOUR TUNES ? Kemistry + Storm, Fabio, Randall, Kenny Ken , Grooverider, Randall, Andy C and still spreading. WHAT PRODUCERS AND LABELS DO YOU RATE ? In this scene any producer with the determination to experiment and create new styles and ideas not yet ventured. Labels : Good Looking, Photek, Full Circle, V recs, Shadow, Philly Blunt, Metal Heads, Section 5 and Motown. ANY GOALS YOU'D LIKE TO REACH IN THE FUTURE / FUTURE PROJECTS ? How long have you got, I am 23 now so this is just the beginning ! I've just finished a track for FFRR (London) which should be out Septembet time (Something creatively different). I'm going to expand into every corner of most styles of music and work with as many producers as possible to share and learn different techniques, feels and styles. The music I create now is part of a natural progression different than I've done before but not half as good as whats coming ! Shouts Thanks to the creator, sorry no other shouts as they all get too complicated. Peace Out. The End Profile

GROOVERIDER'S HARDSTEP SELECTION 6 VOL II 16 tearin Jungle tracks compiled by "The Great Grooverider" Featuring: DJ SS, Dillinja, Roni Size, Splash and many more . . . OUT NOW on double vinyl plus extended CD & cassette mixed by Grooverider UK DISTRIBUTION: SRD

What were your first tracks? In 1989 I remixed 'You're walking' for Electribe 101, and in 1991, produced 'Blow out' as part of Bass Selective, which was run by DJ only, now SOUR records. What music were you into before Jungle? I've been into Hip-Hop since 1982, jazz and electronic music from classical to experimental. What projects have you been involved in with SOUR? 'Elemental' and 'The Man Machine' are two tracks I wrote late 1994 that came out on SOUR. They explore the relationship between man and machine. At present, man can only interface with computers and they have certainly reshaped the way in which we write music but there is a fear that as technology develops at a rapid rate we may become lost in Cyber Space as computers mutate with humans! I've also done a mix of 'Greater Love' featuring Elizabeth Troy, which appears on the 'Artcore' album on React music. This was a challenging track. I concentrated on the vocals. As she was singing in key with the sub base, between semitones, I had to tunes the keyboard sounds to her voice. My drum programming was more abstract, and the sax worked the best with Elizabeth's singing The track will definitely put the listener into a different head space. 'Mutant Jazz' by T - Power v MK Ultra was released on SOUR on 10th April. It is a 4-5 year old idea where Hip-Hop and jazz are mutated into a different form and I was inspired by Coal Train, Miles Davis, Selonius Monk and other experimental modern jazz musicians for this track. Were you non productive between 1991 and 1994? I did not appreciate the darkness which dominated the drum and bass scene and got into ambient music. Since 1994 the scene has widened to incorporate Jazz, Ambient and other styles, so I have been inspired to write again. Have you done any remixes? I was involved in a remix of 'Let's get it on' by Shabba Ranks, and have recently been asked by 'Inca Queen' (A Peruvian/Amazonian artist) to do a remix for them. This will be released as part of a Cd featuring other World music artists remixed in an Ambient/Jungle style. This remix will feature omn an album which I am currently working on which is a chronology of T - Power tracks, to be released in July. I have also started a new label to cater for the dance floor called 'Deep Thought' with a smashed up amen tune called 'Natural Born Killers' What do you think of amen tunes? 90% of those who churn out amen tunes are just in it to sell records. Dance music is by nature throw away and utilitarian : music which you can't appreciate at home. It has it's place : on the dance floor. What are your future plans? My future plans are to be as experimental as possible in my music. I am writing a 160 minute long soundscape for an album to be released on SOUR. It is an experimental drum + bass style and may be appreciated more by an Indie and Ambient crowd. What do you think of the name Artcore? • PHOTO BY SQUARE STUDIO 0171 729 8397 It's better than 'Intelligent' which is condescending.. It suits what I do. Now, where self expression is more important in drum and bass, I am alone with the equipment, much like an artist, trying to fing a means of communication and self expression by drawing from a wide variety of resources. The Artcore styles mutates many styles of electronic music, from many cultural influences. It is a typical Post - modern art form. Watch out for T - Power's mix of 'Gre ater Love' on 'Artcore' on React, out now. And his Chronology album out in July on Sour followed by the sequel out around Aug 95. Interview compiled by the Stage One Music Company.

MASTERVIBE INTERVIEW My name is Darren, I live in Cornwall and I was inspired to become a DJ by just going out and watching all the other DJ's which made me want to have a go myself. It all started when I moved to Cornwall in 1991. I was used to going out every weekend raving but the scene in Cornwall was'nt what I was used to, it was slack to say the least, so I decided to start promoting my own events to give the south west ravers a chance to hear the UK's finest DJ's and to give them a regular night out. That's when I started DJing, warming up at my own events. At the time my influences came from listening to Clarkee, Swan-e, Mastersafe and LTJ Bukem when they were at Milwaukees in Bedfordshire at the early ESP days. My influences now are Kenny Ken, Fabio, LTJ Bukem and Randall. I've never really thought about where I got the name Mastervibe, it just sounded right at the time and once it had been on a flyer there was no turning back. My first break was at Dreamscape 9 at the Plymouth warehouse. I played alongside DJ Clarkee in the hardhouse and tasteful techno arena, this was a bit of challenge as I'd never played these styles before and I had to do a 3 hour set. My views on the scene at the moment are that it needs reunification, there's too many people complaining that there's too much Jungle or too much happy hardcore or techno. When the scene started it was all played at the same event, these days a lot of promoters think they will make their scene bigger by promoting the style that they are into and then tell the DJ what to play. It's up to the DJ what to play, he/she should be professional enough to play for the people and at the same time broaden their minds with new styles and new material. When it comes down to it there isn't enough of any one music to play for 12 hours non stop. My favourite promoter is any promoter who doesn't bullshit on the flyer and puts 100% into running it. My favourite venues are any venue where you can see the crowds reaction. What's the point in playing to a crowd when they can't see you and you can't see them. The DJ's I rate are LTJ Bukem, Fabio, Kenny Ken and Randall for leading the way forward and DJ Clarkee for his head fuck techno. MC's would be Conrad, Mad P and any MC who goes with the flow and knows when to shut up. Too many MC's jibber over the mixing which is annoying and interferes with the flow of the music. As of yet I haven't played abroad but I've just confirmed a few dates touring the East Coast of America which should be a good experience. I haven't made any tunes yet but I've just bought a PC and all the software. All I need to do now is learn how to use it! As far as radio work goes I used to run a station in Cornwall called Panic FM, but I was forced to sell it when I had to buy some some new decks after someone broke into my flat while I was at Dreamscape 9. My only embarrassing moment would be turning off a deck with my sleeve during a mix at Dreamscape 17, Ooops! When I'm not DJing I surf, that's all I really live here for. I used to live in Wellingborough, Northants but moved down here because it's the surfing capital of England, (Radical, Gnarly, Cowabunga, Dude!) Plus I still run a monthly night for the techno monsters of Cornwall with resident DJ Clarkee, Jungle is yet to arrive in the southwest. The best thing about DJing for me is getting out of the southwest and playing Drum and Bass to people who really appreciate it. Don't get me wrong I still like other types of music but you have to please yourself from time to time as well as others. Shouts to Lindsay, Murray, Clarkee, The Bobbalistic Jungle warriors, Gerald and George (The 2 G's - My two guinea pigs!) and all the people that support the underground scene.

CLUBS VOODOO MAGIC - SUN 28TH MAY - EQUINOX. Firstly a big disrespect to everyone who didn't attend this party - you all missed out! We arrived at the Equinox at 1.45am and entered the venue after 1/2 hour queueing. As we entered the main arena the first thing we saw was how jammed the place was, I had seen the Equinox rammed before but never this rammed. The second thing we noticed was Grooverider playing the ruffest tunes like Lighter VIP, Fashion remix and any other remix you can think of, He played a wicked set but that's nothing unusual for the Rider. Next up was LTJ Bukem with MC Conrad, both of them together make the perfect team an hour of intelligence and feelgood music was what the crowd needed, respect Bukem you've got a wicked style. After Bukem was Kenny Ken and when he put the needle on his first record I don't think the crowd could have jumped any higher, wicked set. Next was Randall and Andy C back to back who absolutely rinsed out the place playing tune after tune. Unfortunately we didn't get to hear the last two DJ's of the night but needless to say Voodoo Magic comes highly recommended, Nyome & Karen. ROAST - SAT 10 JUNE - SANCTUARY. Arrived at 12:15am the car park wasn't too jammed and after the usual Sanctuary search we entered the main arena with Brockie + MC Det playing hard. The venue had undergone quite a nice transformation with the original Roast banners and a light show not too forget with the dance platforms set out one of the best I had seen in the Sanctuary (Well impressed), the stage had also been moved to the side of the arena adding extra effect, Upstairs was the sounds of Scotland's DJ Kid playing his last few tunes sounding ruff, other DJ's in this arena were Tonic, EFX, Ash and Flirt who all played well. Downstairs, it was busy with a nice attitude until an incident happened where 5ive-0 was walking through the crowd with his radio mic and someone grabbed the mic breaking it which caused friction, the music then went off 5ive-0 sends his apologies to all people who attended the Roast. And so the party continues with all DJ's in this arena playing well such as Hype, Ron, Randall, Brockie, Grooverider and Frost. Despite rumours Roast for me was a good night out providing good music for a good crowd. JUNGLE ROCK UK - THE BORDERCLASH - FRI 9TH JUNE. After a 2 and a 1/2 hour drive we arrived in Bristol at the Malcolm X centre for 9.30pm. We had never been to a Jungle rock party before but from what we had heard and read from previous events we decided to check it! Gladly we found no queue and the security were SAFE (nice one boys.) The venue was a healthy size with a balcony overlooking the dancefloor, we walked in and DJ Dark Surgeon was on the decks playing some tuff beats and the livin' bassline he played a wicked warm up set and from then we knew the night was gonna be PHAT! The sound system was legal! Next up came Roni Size and MC Dynamite who rinsed out the warm up pressure. UP at 11pm came DJ Kid followed by Bryan G and MC Bassman who played a ladies selection. By this time the venue was almost full, the temperature was rising everyone was dancing and the vibes were definitely alive. Then came Brockie and MC Navigator at 1am who asked for the set to be turned up. Well ...... the crowd went mad, he played to his usual wicked standard and the crowd loved it! The lighting was firing and there was a totally friendly atmosphere in the place. Up at 1.30 came JJ Frost, dubplates were coming left, right and centre! At this stage the crowd were electric, whistles, horns and lighter massives showed their presence. MC's Navigator, 5ive O and Spyder gave an excellent showcase, letting off the most lyrics and nuff conscious messages to the massives(respect)! The rest of the night was left to the supreme team DJ Ron & SL who rinsed and then ran it red. Overall the production, DJ's, MC's and most of all the safe atmosphere were all well worth the journey. We had a brilliant night out and will definitely go to Jungle Rock's future events - Respect.

United Dance - Stevenage Leisure Centre - 16 June. After queuing for an hour, we entered to hear the sounds of Clarkee kicking up the place and a mass of happy ravers, the atmosphere was electric. UD had the usual brilliant lazers, stage set up and dance platforms, but they'd made one major change since the last one - the DJ stand was high above the stage free from dancers who make the records jump. The two screens either side of the stage showed amongst other things the DJ's mixing. And the sound, well to put it mildly was f***ing loud and very clear, UD does it wicked style! Arena 2 was ram jam so I couldn't get in, must have been good though. The outside chillout area made sure it didn't get too hot inside, it was needed! Next up was Swane 10/10 for a wicked set, he dropped tune after tune that got the whole place jumpin. The people there were definitely an older age group this time who were really friendly and there to have a good time. Following Swane was SY scratching it up brilliantly, then came Hype and am I mad or did Clarkee come on again? nobody minded though, he was wicked. The Vibes PA whipped up the atmosphere once again, then Grooverider kept it going. The security as always were very good and left people alone. Respect to the poor bloke who was trying to sort out the queue for the loos all night! I'm not one to moan about a UD event but I was dissapointed when Slipmatt and Seduction only played an hour and a half between them, and there was much more jungle played than usual, don't get me wrong I like jungle but UD is renowned for it's 4 Beat (Happy Hardcore) that most people who go there prefer, I've been to every one! Anyway, that aside it was a brilliant well organised night with a full house of ravers rockin right through into until the morning light! I'm sure UD will eventually have to find a bigger venue but I hope they continue to be a generous with everything they provide at their events as they have been so far. Shout to Kristy, John on security and my boyfriend Tony, Rachael. Thunder + Joy - Fri 26th May - Lazerdrome. After finally managing to organise a ride to Peckham, we were hoping that there wouldn't be a queue, we arrived at 11.45pm and was happy to see a handful of people queuing outside. After entering we engaged in a short but thorough search by security. We passed through the garage room but due to lack of people and the sounds from the Jungle arena we moved swiftly on, which was decorated by the Thunder + Joy white net canopy and a selection of Lazerdrome lazers and lights. We managed to catch the end of Footloose and MC Shabba's set with ravers arriving and beginning to fill the venue, Footloose played at a calm pace for the ravers already inside. Next up stepped SL who warmed up playing back to back tunes drawing the crowd near to the stage, setting the scene for Nikky Blackmarket and Stevie Hyper D who were undoubtedly the duo of the night. Nikki played an extra set and continued tearin up the place. At that point the rave really kicked off, setting the atmosphere for the night. The vibe was electric and everyone front, back and sides was jumping. Kenny Ken was up next with MC Gee who played a set appreciated by the crowd, taking the rave one step further. Then came MC Navigator with Darren Jay mellowing the place which brought our night to an end. On a whole all the DJ's played excellent sets, setting the mood and playing the right tunes that us the ravers wanted to hear, dubplate after dubplate. The MC's were riding the tunes neatly making the crowd get up, jump up, scream out and brock wild. We enjoyed the evening with the help of the free drinks supplied in the VIP lounge (Thanks). The sound system as usual was Lazerdrome standard - 50k of loud and thumping bassline. This was a nice launch to the roadshow, the next one is lined up for june 30th in Birmingham, we'll definitely be there to rave it up T+J style. It goes out to Sweet C, Kutlas, Pressure X, Navigator, Snipes, Dwight, Clapton massive, Kool FM, Baron J, Security and George Kelly, Lazerdrome massive, Thunder + Joy, DJ's. Maximum respect to Tristan and Carlo for giving us a chance (Thanks). by Parakat + Bitch. One Nation - 3-6-95 - Rhythm Station. The One Nation venue was hard to find and when we did we were eager to get inside. The security were OK there were no problems getting in and the venue was fairly empty at first however it quickly filled up. The first two DJ's I heard were Andy C and Cool Hand Flex who both played well then came Squirell who played some kickin tunes, Hype smashed it playing tunes like Lighter remix. Brockie dropped some wicked basslines and Swane also was wicked. Both JJ Frost 9Who replaced Fabio and Darren Jay had ruff sets. The MC's were

wicked on the night, they brought out the Jungle to the max. The venue had a brilliant Jungle type roof which brought out the atmosphere, the sound system was excellent with lots of bass. The One Nation event attracted wicked people with lots of nice girls, well worth the money. If this was not enough Demolition Man performed 'Fire remix' and a new track live, this crowned off the night in great style the crowd went wild with whistles and lighters around the arena. Big shout to Don-e and the car crew, Tristan, Carlo, Asif, Tim, Claire and Jay. By Cos. DREAM 8 - THE MAIN EVENT - LINFORD FILM STUDIOS. I'd never been to Linfords before the Dream Fm do. But I'd heard reports of it losing it's license because so much trouble was kicking off in there each week. So, I was pleasantly surprised to arrive at an event with friendly faces and no attitude, which is the usual vibe at all the Dream do's. Dream FM is a Happy Hardcore or should I say '4 Beat' station, and this type of music was played in the main arena (which was bigger than expected) All the DJ's in this arena played well apart from Vibes who didn't turn up. Raves organised by pirate radio station's are good in the sense that they help up coming DJ's to get a chance to play alongside those who've already become established. Watch out for Tom Thumb and MC Lively who had the whole of the main arena rockin from start to finish of his set. Dropping some classic old ones as well as some pukka new tunes like Rise + Shine's exclusive 'Losing Control', they were in a league of their own - wicked. DJ Energy also played a blinding set, my only moan goes out to whoever put him on early as too many people may have missed him. DJ's in arena 2 played mainly Jungle. This arena turned into a decent chillout towards the end, as there was room to sit and a quieter less stomping bassline than arena 1. Even the small house room had a good vibe, and the sound in this arena was wicked because of it's size. The systems in the ote two arenas were loud enough to ensure that the tunes were pumped out to the max. The main arena had the usual UV lights, lazers and strobes which kept the crowd buzzing. Apparently a lot of work had gone into production of arena 2 that day as things were impressively hung from the ceiling. Thankfully Linfords security were quite relaxed, once in the rave there was enough present to make us feel protected by them as opposed to feeling threatened by them. This is a nice change to clubs where security is so tight it prevents you having a good time. After attending nearly all of the Dream FM parties, this one knocked the stuffing out of the rest . Well done to the DJ's and MC's as well as the crowd who made the night what it was ! A big Happy Birthday to Natalie from Tristan, respect to the Wordsworth, Carlo for all the hard work. Big kiss and crushing hug to the one I love to please and last of all shout to Cos by Natalie Lemare HYPERBOLIC. SPEEWAY STADIUM - KINGS LYNN. Friday the 19th May and once again I find myself at the speedway stadium, kings lynn, Norfolk home of Hyperbolic. We arrived at the club at about 11pm and after 5 mins queuing and a quick frisk we were inside. The place was already rammed and the crowd had wasted no time in raising the atmosphere. The club itself consists of 2 arenas with arena 1 playing Happy Hardcore and bouncy Techno and arena 2 dedicated to house. The dance floor in the main arena was long and narrow with a raised stage at one end and speakers placed all round the outside ensuring that there wasn't the 'dead spots' that you get in some of the bigger venues. Add to this the usual collection of intelligent lighting and backdrops, an outdoor chillout with plenty of comfortable seating and hot and cold food and drink, the more laid back atmosphere of arena 2 and you come up with a first class venue. It wasn't long before Dougal took to the decks and got the entire place on it's feet, as he does whenever and wherever he plays, the man just doesn't play a bad set (wicked), he may have been a hard act to follow but Dynamix lived up to the task and so did club owner Paul Grant with possibly the best set I've heard him play. I must admit House really ain't my cup of tea but the unanimous decision seemed to be that Steve K played the set of the night in arena 2. As far as DJ of the night went in arena 1 I think the

honours ended even with excellent sets from the likes of Selecta, Bill Bunter, Vibes, Billy Bunter, Sy and Slipmatt all accompanied by the vocals of MC MC (Respec') and Storm. It's without a doubt safe to say that a good night was had by all, and I personally thought the quality of the music was excellent, the flyer promises a 100% attitude free zone and that's exactly what you get. If you love the Happy vibe and haven't been to Hyperbolic check it out, you won't be dissapionted. Shouts to Kate (Noticeably absent), Bob (Sound), DJ Swift, Elaine, Naomie and all the Wisbech crew MFT DREAMSCAPE - SAT 27TH MAY - SANCTUARY. First time at one of the ESP double bubble parties using the Sanctuary and the Rollers arena. Arrived at approx 12.45am hearing the last few tunes of Andy C's set which sounded firin (I heard that before I arrived he was playing on one deck for 40 minutes), one thing I noticed about the venue at this point was the sound obviously under a restriction from the council and could have been a fair bit louder. As usual the production ie Lights, Projections etc were of a high standard and a good stage show was provided for the rammed arena. Next up was DJ SS playing a lot of Formation product which everyone appreciated but once again having problems with the set up. Outside was a massive queue to get into the Rollers arena, 2 rides, a burger van and seating leading to the Sanctuary which was at this time ram jam and sweaty with a stage which was on hydrolics to elevate the DJ, yet again the sound system could have been better but there was nothing that could have been done about this. There seemed to be more of an atmosphere in the Happy Hardcore arena even though I think that The Rollers is a better venue with its larger seating areas and massive chillout. The DJ's I heard in this arena were SS, Grooverider, Fabio, Andy C, Randall and LTJ Bukem who all played well despite the circumstances and in the Sanctuary I heard Slipmatt and Clarkee who seemed to be going down well. Overall a good event in 3 separate music arenas with good line ups in each. RAVEALATION + STRICTLY UNDERGROUND - SAT 15TH APRIL - WEMBLEY. There couldn't have been a much better venue to hold one of the biggest raves in England, three massive arenas. One happy hardcore / drum + bass, one house and a chill out room. It seemed like Ravealation was going to live up to it's name. When we arrived the queue was gone as the security dealt with it fast and efficiently and after a quick search we entered hearing Devious D playing one of the best Hardcore / Jungle sets of the night, I didn't think Randall played as good as usual but he still tore it up. I was dissapointed when Micky Finn didn't turn up and Mark Ryder took his place who played well. You couldn't have got a better combination than Dougal and Vibes who played back to back with a stomping set, other DJ's well on that vibe were Slipmatt and Ramos. All the MC's were wicked especially GQ, there was also a live PA by Slammin vinyl who were kitted out with radiation suits and face masks. There was also a massive stage with plenty of room for the sexy dancers who were all great especially Kelly. I have to say the lighting and production in both arenas was on top form, overall it wasn't a bad night and Ravealation and Strictly Underground's next event is with Elevation at Wembley STREET KNOWLEDGE - THURS 22ND JUNE - THE VENUE, EDINBURGH. This being one of the first drum + bass parties in Scotland I was a bit dubious. The Venue itself consisted of 2 floors with downstairs being house and upstairs being the main arena holding about 500 people. First up were 2 Scottish DJ's Intellect and the General who both played well and by about 10.40 the people were starting to arrive, the vibe up there seemed to be different because this type of music is all new to most of the people in there on the club side of things. By 11pm the place seemed to be rammed with everyone there picking up on the vibe straight away, next up was Frenzic who played a rollin set stirring the crowd up nicely. By this point the place was hot and 'avin it, next up was Kid who rocked it hard accompanied by MC Carnage, then came KMC who played a rollin mellow type of set. Then came the star's of the night for me Roni Size and MC Dynamite who had me in tears some serious tunes - oh my gosh. To sum it up it was probably one of the best nights i have had in a while, wicked atmosphere etc etc.

GOING STATESIDE REPORT BY JASON BERRY. Everyone I talk to in the UK asks me what's up in the states and when is it going to blow up. Well, we've been representing Jungle for quite some time here. And we've already blown it up in Chicago. So let me fill you in on what has gone down in the past years up to now-a-days. Chicago is a city finally getting it's much deserved props. Peeps in the windy city have been representing the Jungle since the original hardcore days, and have always kept it real and true to the music. That's a big part of why the Chi is now on top. DJ's RP, Phantom 45 and JJ Jellybean along with Chicago's first MC Blackeye laid the foundation years ago playing all the raves that came by. Ripe, headed by DJ RP were promoting jungle do's as far back as 1992. Now that might not be a big deal to y'all in England, but believe you me when I tell you NO ONE wanted to mess with Jungle in the States back then. So respect is due to Ripe for getting Chi - town off the ground way back then. Another important early point in Chicago's development was the magazine C.H.A, Chicago Hardcore Authority. C.H.A kept all the DJ's in touch with what was going on in the UK with it's no bullshit approach to music & parties. C.H.A also schooled many on what hardcore was all about. Respect to the original C.H.A crew and all the Jungle Vibes massive, you know who you are. Nowadays Chicago Junglists are getting 'Biz like Markie'. It all starts Wednesday at Alcatraz where JJ Jellybean, Phantom 45 and Snuggles side by side with MC Blackeye play to the brackwild massive. Thursday and it's DJ 2D, JJ Jellybean and Snuggles with MC Blackeye at Rinse Out session held at the club Discovery. As you would expect rinsing drum & bass, amen and 808 style. Fridays are spent sitting on chrome in the Land Cruiser or 4 door Lex piece with 89.3 boomin out da Rockford's as JJ Jellybean and Snuggles with MC's Blackeye & Biggs debut the newest white labels and dubplates for the city on their weekly radio spot Lightening and Thunder. This is when a tune gets made. If it gets slammed on the 89.3 it's destined to move big numbers out the Hip Hzouse, the local record shop where JJ works. Otherwise, you'll find the tune in the cut out bin. Saturday night is time for the big one offs from one of Chicago's premiere Jungle promoters, Ripe Jungle Ting (Headed by the finest female promoter, Sol, at Milk. These events feature the top US, Canadian and UK talent. In the past few months Chicago has seen DJ Ron, 5ive - o, DJ Trace, GQ, Dett, Kings of the Jungle, Danny Breaks, DJ Phantasy, MC Reality, Slipmaster J and DJ Gemini play Chicago to rammed houses of up to 2,500. The crowds show their appreciation with fireworks & flags in the air. Just ask these men how crazy shit gets in Chi. Sunday night in the city offers the jungle posse a chance to burn trees of the chronic while chilling to the hardstep beats and butter basslines down the Elbo room. A rotating crew of Chicago DJ's spin here with the regulars DJ RP, Danny the wild child and Justin keeping the night forever fresh. What a way to end a wild weekend. Over on the East Coast, things have started late but heads are picking up fast. Washington DC has taken the biggest steps so far. With the top geographics they are drawing DJ's from all areas : Diesel Boy representing Pittsburg, Karl K representing GQ & Dett Stateside DJ Mystical Influence

Philly, Method One representing Richmond and DC, DJ Stunt Promoter 2 Tuff (Andy & Laura) is putting on the top one off events and have the East Coast on lockdown. Big Up 1 New York heads are trekking down to DC as well, but more importantly are trying hard as hell to create a lil sumpin sumpin in NYC. Promoter U-Buzzin (George & crew) is at the top with a better group of Jungle's past, present and future than the majority of the trendy New York crowd. Goin' old school style you can find these heads on the trains passing out tapes of the fattest Jungle. Big up U-Buzzin for recognising the real and respect to their crew of DJ's & MC's - Karl K, Nymex, Dara and MC Dub 2. U-Buzzin's outlaws are the best bet to check these and other heads. Also peep Konkrete Jungle with DJ's Dara, Delmar, Cassien, Clear, Frank and MC Rogue. At the pressure cooker you can hear Odi + Beau, respect to all New York heads representing Jungle. Florida crews are working time + a half to get it rollin, and with some of the biggest names Stateside representing it shouldn't be long before it blows up. Orlando is home the Don Dada O.J. AK 1200. AK has influenced many with his early U.S. rave articles on the top tunes outta London and continues to spin the fastest shit to this day. AK and his boy Jeffee put out the Junglized magazine, which keeps all the U.S. heads upfront. Down on the Ft. Lauderdale side is the Ruffneck massive, headed by another O.J. John Butler. Ruffnecks yearly tours to London are legendary and with all the connections they've forged look for Ft. Lauderdale / Miami to take off with a quickness. On the West Coast we see no lack of DJ's spinning the music. However, the events aren't happening yet. But Josh Swissman with URB magazine and Gamd with his articles for XCLR8R are on top of their shit, and if anything is to happen these heads will do it. Nuff other peeps are playing Jungle and representing properly. Cant name everyone but you know who you are - Big up. A big shout out to all my peeps in Toronto + London, thanks to y'all I got nuttin but love! DUB SHACK JUNGLE.......CHICAGO SORTING THE JUNGLE MASSIVE STATESIDE STRICTLY JUNGLE DRUM & BASS MAIL ORDER RECORDS, TAPES, ACCESSORIES DJ'S/PRODUCERS: DUB SHACK CAN GET YOUR RECORDS OUT TO THE DJ'S MAKING AN IMPACT ON THE U.S. JUNGLE SCENE FASTER THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE DUB SHACK, P.O. BOX 8106, WILMETTE, ILLINOIS, 60091, U.S.A. 708/604-1983 [email protected]

P-FUNK Out Now P-FUNK Frontline Records Information: 0973 381892 Distributed By S.R.D Tel: 0181 802 3000 GANJA RECORDS PRESENTS GANJA REMIXES VOL 3 PUM PUM MUS SMOKE GANJA COMING SOON ....Still Smokin Distributed by Vinyl Distribution Tel: 01734 510801/2/3

RAVEALATION & ELEVATION IN ASSOCIATION WITH STRICTLY UNDERGROUND AT WEMBLEY EXHIBITON HALLS presents UNITED NATIONS OF HARDCORE PART 2 SATURDAY 26TH AUGUST 1995 (BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND) 8PM - 7AM CAPACITY 10,000 PLUS FEATURING 20 DJ's 5 MC's TOP PA's AND A HOST OF ATTRACTIONS TICKETS £18.50 IN ADVANCE PLUS BOOKING FEE INFO LINES: 0831 470 354 OR 0181 520 6011 WATCH THIS SPACE FOR LINE UP AND ATTRACTIONS ALSO FOR THE FIRST TIME ON VIDEO ! Strictly Underground / Ravealation over 1 hour of the highest quality footage from our events featuring exclusive interviews on camera with : DJ RAP DJ SLIPMATT DJ SWAN-E DJ VIBES DR S GACHET & MC JJ S.U. Corp P.O. Box 300, Romford, Essex, RM1 3SA. TEL : (01708)760953 FAX :(01708)723820 Distributed by SRD TEL : (0181) 8203000 PHONE FAX OR WRITE TO S.U.CORP FOR OUR MAIL ORDER CATALOGUE ! STOP PRESS STOP PRESS STOP PRESS STOP PRESS STOP PRESS STOP PRESS STOP PRESS STOP PRESS STOP PRESS

PART II MC NAVIGATOR INTERVIEW BY DARK NOISE PHOTOGRAPH BY TRISTAN

Are your lyrics freestyle or prewritten? - They are both, to clarify this for all MC's out there. Prewritten is something you write, learn and program into your head whereas freestyling is just getting a vibe off the rhythm and chatting freestyle over the top which means anything that might come into your head it's up to you how you interpret it, a mans mind determines what comes out of his mouth. What mics do you rate? - Any mic that sounds crisp, I just like a mic that sounds crystal clear. Me and 5ive 0 were at a dance in Manchester and we both had identical cordless mic's and mine was crisp and his sounded shit - explain that ! If I was to go to a shop to buy a mic I would seek advice from a professional studio engineer, it's mainly down to the vocalist and how he tones his voice, even a shit mic you can make sound good if you tone your voice the correct way. Have you always been with one DJ? - On Kool usually stick with Swift but before that I used to turn on the radio and if someone was tearin down the airwaves I'd just fly down the station and get on the mic, out in the field I'll MC for anyone I like a DJ who rolls a mix rather than chop, chop. Have you made any tunes? - Yeah I've made a few, I used to run a record label called X amount but we had to put that into hibernation cause there was other things to do. 'Victory' was the one that came out but it didn't do as well as expected, but that was down to certain distribution companies who at the time didn't want anything to do with Jungle. In the end I had to get the money myself and with the help from some friends we pressed it and distributed it on our own, At that time I had a strong belief in Jungle which a lot of people never had. I then went on to do the 'Wild and Free EP' with the help of Uncle 22, plus the 'Prison' lyric which was for the Ragga Twins on a track called 'Lock Up' which is coming soon on their new album. I also did some stuff with a group called D-Note 'Inequity Worker' and 'Criminal Justice' which were made of pure vibes building up inside me about the scene. Do you prefer MCing out in the eyes of the public or on radio? - I love them both, on the radio you really get a good vibe off the phone because people phone and say 'I'm driving down the High rd and Kools just ripping up' or 'We got all the seats pushed back in the front room, we got the drinks out and were avin it ere'. These big ups are worth more than any money in this scene, the respect and the sheer love they have for it. A lot of the kids aren't old enough to go to any of the raves and at the end of the day they are the ravers of the future. How alive would you say Jungle is at the moment? - Everyone's care and love for the business will keep it flourishing, it's mainly love not money that's kept it going, last year all you saw was Jungle features in all the magazines but those same magazines were running it down a few years ago. A lot of people were saying at the beginning of the year Jungle is dead or Jungle is dying but take Manchester for example that is a war torn place but jungle is bringing them together well this is the vibe that me and 5ive 0 got when we went up to the Hacienda. A dance is not a place for people to go round acting like they are in Bosnia or Beirut because if they really went to them places half these guys would shit bricks, if guys would just come off that vibe there are start thinking yeah it's music. Do you think the MC is appreciated as much as he should be? - I don't think the MC's are appreciated at the moment. I think certain promoters might be making mistakes in the way that they are drawing for there MC's, if you got too many MC's on a line up it can get confusing and some of the MC's out there are more into bigging themselves up rather than the music or the crowd, at the end of the day it's the people that come to the dance that count and if you are up there on a self righteous tip that ain't running at all. As an MC it's hard to please the promoter, the punters and the DJ, I think it's the MC that gets the rotten end of the stick in a lot of ways, but when your allowed to flex by yourself you get settled and its then I think an MC can do hi s job better not having to chat a thing quickly then pass the mic to another MC, cause everybody's working and everybody has to get their voice on the tape. What about when you spar with the Ragga Twins? - With the Ragga twins we already have lyrics pre composed that we've sat down and worked out which makes it a lot easier to flex with those guys as we've basically been working together for the last 15 years. What's your perception of an MC's job? - To be up there informing the crowd on how the scene is going and where it's going to, sending a positive message to the people and also to help people enjoy the music more freestyling whatever you wanna do but not crowding it out too much your just there to enhance it. Where abouts have you played abroad? - Austria, Holland, Switzerland, Denmark, Finland, Frankfurt, Berlin, Hanover, Nurenburg, Hamburg, Miami and many other places all over the world. Shouts Manpi Swift, Uncle 22, A guy called Gerald, All De Underground crew, Mikey, Flex, Hoppa, Randall, Hornet, Massive respect to Ragga Twins - Them guys background foundation for years, Big respect Moose + 5ive 0, Big up Kool FM + DJ's, MC's and management - Creme de la Creme, Roast, VIP, Jungle fever, Maximum big up to my 5 kids Jason, Jade, Crystal, Durrell, Amber, D Note, Matt, Olly, Charlie, Jon, Jon engineer, everybody else who helped big up the Jungle scene and all who brought it to where it is today and those who have helped me in my music career past and present, the names are too numerous to mention but big up your credentials everytime, Who the cap fits wear it - Peace Navigator out !!.