Late 80s. In an England suffocated by unemployment and Margaret Thatcher’s policies, a generation found refuge and a voice in music.
In abandoned factories and secret fields, underground raves were born – explosions of light and sound where thousands of youth escaped social oppression to the rhythm of a new musical genre: breakbeat. Fusing the raw intensity of Detroit techno, the warmth of Chicago house, and the energy of New York hip hop, breakbeat shattered all the rules. Syncopated rhythms, powerful basslines, and limitless production fuelled by samplers and synthesizers gave birth to a sound that was not just danced to – it was an act of rebellion.
An electrifying journey into the heart of the rave revolution, from the first illegal beats in England to its global explosion. Through never-before-seen archival footage, interviews with the most underground pioneers, and a soundtrack that still resonates today, this documentary unveils the story of a movement that transformed music, culture, and the very essence of nightlife.
This Leeds premiere screening will be followed by a live Q&A featuring Gez Varley (LFO/G-Man)
The film features: Orbital, Leeroy Thornhill (former member of The Prodigy), General Levy, Baby D, DJ Rap, Slipmatt, Uncle Dugs, Goldie, Jumpin Jack Frost, Bryan Gee, Altern 8, DJ Hype, Fabio, Sarah Sandy, The Ragga Twins, DJ Brockie, Bassline Smith, DJ Ron, Master Pasha, Shades Of Rhythm, Nick Halkes, The House Crew, DJ Darren Jay, Junior Tomlin, plus many more…
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