Markee Ledge, a true pioneer in the Bristol drum and bass scene, has made a significant contribution to the city’s musical landscape. With his visionary approach, he founded the legendary club night “Ruffneck Ting”, which became a cornerstone of the local drum and bass community, showcasing cutting-edge talent and pushing the boundaries of the genre. Markee Ledge also established the Breakbeat Culture label, nurturing and promoting emerging artists and pushing the sound forward including DJ Fresh, D*Minds early releases. Additionally, as the core writer and producer of the internationally acclaimed live act Kosheen he further cemented his influence in the industry. As his new ‘Equinox III’ EP drops, DMCWorld goes back to mine with Markee Ledge.
Cocteau Twins – Aloysius – Treasure – 4AD
The Cocteau Twins, ethereal and transcendent. Their music doesn’t just play; it envelops you in a dreamscape of sound. “Aloysius” is a hidden gem, and if you haven’t delved into their mid-’80s albums, you’re missing out on an auditory adventure like no other. You could literally listen to any of their albums and be immediately transported into their world.
The Cure – Play For Today – Seventeen Seconds – Polydor
The Cure’s “Play For Today” is a burst of sonic energy from their Seventeen Seconds album, along with Faith and Pornography form the holy trinity of gothic roots. It’s the sound of Robert Smith’s haunting vocals colliding with the urgency of post-punk. This track holds the essence of youthful rebellion and dark introspection.
The Jam – Boy About Town – Sound Affects – Polydor
Here’s a piece of nostalgia from my first band ‘Crush.’ The Jam’s “Boy About Town” is pure ‘joie de vivre’ in a bottle. In 1980, it encapsulated the essence of cool, a carefree spirit, and the unshakeable belief in a brighter tomorrow.
Human League – Love Action – Dare – Virgin
(I Love your) “Love Action” by the Human League, a synth-pop classic. It’s a declaration of affection set to electronic beats and memorable hooks. The energy and phat bass synth is a hint of what’s to come with the evolution of dance music.
New Order – Procession – Movement – Factory Records
New Order’s “Procession” bridges the gap between indie rock and electronica. It’s a reflection of the changing musical landscape in the ’80s, where guitars met synthesizers. A testament to the power breaking down musical barriers, where genre’s collide is when new stars are made.
![New Order - Procession [High Quality]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kv5O5FV29jg/0.jpg)
Fun Boy Three – The Lunatics – Fun Boy Three – Chrysalis
After departing The Specials, Terry, Neville, and Lynval formed the Fun Boy Three. “The Lunatics” is their sonic manifesto, blending Two Tone with a more contemporary electronic sound. It’s a track that defies time, remaining eternally relevant.
Kraftwerk – The Model – The Man-Machine – Capitol
Kraftwerk’s “The Model” was my first introduction to electronic music. It felt like a transmission from the future, and its influence on my musical journey cannot be overstated. This track is where it all began. Kraftwerk are considered to be true original pioneers of electronic dance music. We salute you.
The Source featuring Candy Staton – You’ve Got The Love – Maga Records
The most iconic tracks of House music, “Your Love” gets a vocal makeover and “You’ve Got the Love” is the result. Frankie Knuckles’ hypnotic production combined with Candy Staton’s soul-stirring vocals creates an intoxicating blend. It’s a reminder that love and music are intrinsically connected making this a forever classic.
Happy Mondays – Wrote For Luck (Paul Oakenfold Remix) – Factory Records
The Happy Mondays epitomized the fusion of indie and electronic dance in the late ’80s. Paul Oakenfold’s remix of “Wrote For Luck” takes the track to another dimension, where hedonism meets groove.
Massive Attack – Protection – Protection – Wild Bunch Records
My Bristol brethren, Massive Attack, helped put our musical city on the map. “Protection” is a double treat, featuring the incredible voice of Tracey Thorn. Her emotive vocals combined with Massive’s beats make this track a sanctuary of sound, a timeless Back to Mine gem.
Markee Ledge ‘Equinox III’ EP is out now.
https://markeeledge.bandcamp.com/album/laws-of-emotion-equinox-iii-2
Check out Market Ledge’s Back To Mine playlist on Spotify.
