Dave Clarke Marks 30-year Techno Legacy with ‘Archive One’ & ‘Red’ Series Reissue
Marking a significant milestone in electronic music history, renowned techno maverick Dave Clarke unveils the digital release of his seminal Red series and Archive One album for the first time. The digital re-release is accompanied by a unique box set edition commemorating the 30th anniversary of this landmark release. This limited-edition set includes remastered tracks, coloured vinyl singles of the ‘Red’ series, a 16-page booklet with rare photos and sleeve notes, and exclusive remixes from industry icons such as The Chemical Brothers, DJ Sneak, Aux 88 and Umek.
In 1992 Dave Clarke launched his own music label, “Magnetic North”, releasing recordings under the moniker “Fly By Wire”. He then produced a series of EPs under the name “Red”, one of which was listed by the DJ Mag publication in its “All Time Techno Top 100” list. The Red recordings led to a significant level of attention for Clarke, who subsequently produced remixes for prominent artists such as Kevin Saundersons Inner City, The Chemical Brothers, New Order and Underworld. Signed to the de-Construction label, Clarke then released his debut album, Archive One in 1996, which contained elements of the breakbeat and electronica genres.
Fast forward to 2023, 30 years after the inception of this body of work, and after both the album and series being unavailable at retail for over twenty years on vinyl (copies have been exchanging on Discogs in the meantime for up to £250), remastered original versions and bonus remixes are being released in a limited edition, one-time pressing, exclusive 6 vinyl set slipcase box with signed photo and a 16-page booklet written by Dave Clarke himself. These were ground-breaking works that helped put Dave Clarke and British techno on the global map and so, the digital release of this iconic music not only celebrates Dave Clarke’s influence but also underscores his unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of production; a culmination of authenticity, perseverance, and the enduring power of music.
Hailed as ‘The Baron Of Techno’ by the late John Peel, musician, photographer, journalist, artist and a man with a singular electronic vision, Dave Clarke has great instincts – and those singular instincts have kept him on the correct musical path for over three decades straight. Having made music of his own since 1990 – along the way he has remixed everyone from Fontaines DC, A Place To Bury Strangers, Depeche Mode, The Chemical Brothers, Placebo, Underworld, Leftfield, Fischerspooner, Gazelle Twin, Moby, New Order and Super Furry Animals.
Both Archive One and the Red series are acclaimed as THE defining techno albums and 12 inches of the genre. They paved the way for all that followed and are used as a blueprint for quality, style and music production levels, and are just as relevant now as they were when originally released. By disposing of the status quo virtues that music must be polished and prepared, Dave Clarke is an underground-championing artist with principles that can’t be bought or sold.
The journey to reclaim the rights to Archive One and the Red Series began in 2016 and stands as a rare success story in label rights. Clarke, alongside a close-knit and dedicated team, persevered through nearly a decade of legalities, fueled by the unwavering belief in the music’s enduring legacy. The reissue of ‘Archive One’; and ‘Red Series’ not only celebrates but also underscores the importance of finding the right label, emphasizing the positive relationship between artist and label. Clarke’s 20 year partnership with Skint Records exemplifies how mutual trust and collaboration can yield remarkable results, allowing artists to share their music with a global audience.
Furthermore, the digital release of Archive One & the Red Series marks a significant shift in how music is consumed and appreciated in the digital age. Embracing streaming platforms, Dave Clarke recognizes the cultural significance of making his music accessible to a new generation of listeners, prioritizing the impact of his art. As the music industry grapples with the challenges of digitization and changing consumer behaviors, ‘Red’ and ‘Archive One’ serve as a poignant reminder of the perpetual value of music. Beyond mere entertainment, great music has the power to shape careers, communities, and even politics.
The reissue is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane but a bold reaffirmation of the roots of all what techno is. As techno continues to evolve, Clarke’s legacy remains indelibly etched in the annals of music history, inspiring generations of artists before and to come.
Contains:
1 x Remastered Archive One Album
3 x Red Series Coloured Vinyl Singles
1 x Red Rare Coloured Vinyl Single
1 x Red Remixes Coloured Vinyl Single
16 Page Booklet with rare photos, sleeve notes and foreword by Dave Clarke
·1 x Signed photo print
Available to stream or buy here
