Aww man, I missed this documentary! I hope it's repeated soon... There's surely a strong link between the techno scene and the soul scene of the 80s, the immense power of the songs back then is incredible. Each new track that came out must have been a real event, and I remember reading something, I think on the back of the Prescription compilation which acknowledges that infuence.
Of course, the main link is that the 80s soul stuff all had that futuristic, techno kind of sound, with big drums, big synths, and even bigger hair and wardrobe budgets!! The commitment to melody, funk, and songwriting in those songs is something to take inspiration from, but of course not *just* emulate! (Metro Area-style...sorry ;-) I personally play a selection of 80s whenever I can, the tracks ALWAYS go down well with crowds, regardless of affiliation. Man, they just MAKE you dance!! How can that not be inspiring?? I think we have seen a renaissance in this adventurous attitude in the productions of people like Timbaland and Rodney Jerkins, alongside the legion of soul producers who are trying to stretch their particular template. Just cause they write songs, are they any less 'techno'? Not for me. I reckon there's a lot to learn from such people. Speaking with young soul/garage producers here in London from time to time, you learn that the same things occupy their mind - what the boxes do, how to get the most out of their kit, who's killing it in their scene, etc. etc. Sound familiar? So, anyone fancy coming down The Lick on Saturday?? ;-) Ha ha. Cheers, Andrew
