Ten years ago I took a trip down to London to see 808 celebrate the 25th Anniversary of their album, 90. It was a bit closer to home for their 35th anniversary at New Century Hall in Manchester. Andy is sadly missing from the line-up now but Massey's son, Jackson, has stepped in keep the beats alive.
The set kicked off with the sparkling "Magical Dream," setting the stage for the bass-heavy onslaught of "Ancodia." The sound was loud. Scratches battled with furious basslines as the iconic Speak & Spell samples teased from the mix. The stage was a mesmerizing tangle of wires and laptops, but it was clear that much of the music was being created live. Massey was a whirlwind of activity, tinkering with keys while the drummer unleashed a relentless percussive assault.
"Cobra Bora" was a highlight, its wibbly synths and thunderous drums pushing the boundaries of electronic music. The band seamlessly transitioned into a glorious fusion of electro, house, and jazz, a surprising and exhilarating detour. The crowd, including a group of young, bucket-hat-wearing enthusiasts, was captivated.
"Pacific 202" sounded as fresh as ever, with its live clarinet adding a soulful touch. The brutal intensity of "Donkey Doctor" reminded me why this album is a classic. The breakdown was jaw-dropping, showcasing the intricate layers of sound. "808080808" unleashed a barrage of dirty bass synths and screeching noise, shaking the room to its core.
The set took a more melodic turn with "Sunrise," its laser-like lights and soulful saxophone creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. The kids in the crowd seemed a bit lost, but the rest of us were transfixed. The album concluded with the enigmatic "The Fat Shadow," a fitting end to a truly remarkable performance.
After a brief intermission, they returned to the stage for a second set that delved deeper into their later work. The sound became more industrial and experimental, with Massey adding guitar to the mix. The energy remained high, with heavy basslines and playful bongo rhythms driving the music forward.
Classic tracks like "Plan 9" and "In Yer Face" were given a turbocharged update, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The kids were stunned, while the older generation revelled in the music. The extended live version of "Pacific State" would have been a fitting end to the night, but MC Tunes made a surprise appearance, performing "The Only Rhyme That Bites."
808 State's live show was a masterclass in electronic music. Their ability to seamlessly blend genres and push the boundaries of sound is truly awe-inspiring. I can't wait to see them perform ex:el in full next year.
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