On September 13, 2024, British electronic duo God Colony released their latest EP, North West Tonight. This project captures the essence of Liverpool's forgotten underground rave scene, blending nostalgia for the 80s raves with contemporary club sounds. The duo focuses on creating a sonic journey that reflects the rich cultural history of their hometown.
The EP’s cover art features an arch reminiscent of the former Paradox club, a venue that has been replaced by a Sports Direct store, highlighting the loss of significant nightlife locations in the region. The track Rhyl Sun Centre serves as a tribute to a now-defunct indoor pool that held fond memories for many in the community.
In an interview with Dazed regarding the inspirations behind the project, Thomas Gorton, one half of God Colony, stated, "We were thinking about the freedom of that time and wanted to capture that on our own terms." His partner, James Rand, discussed the evolving landscape of Liverpool's club culture, commenting, "When we were growing up in Liverpool, nearly every building in the city center seemed to be a nightclub or a venue. Now, that’s changed and clubs are shutting constantly… these places aren’t taken seriously and knocked down in favor of soulless, cheaply assembled flats with a Waitrose at the bottom. Clubs mesh people together, and blocks of flats often do the exact opposite."
Musically, North West Tonight delivers a sound markedly distinct to God Colony, influenced by their experiences at raves featuring DJ legends like Marcel Dettmann and Ricardo Villalobos. The EP boasts vibrant basslines and soaring synths, complemented by lyrical contributions from collaborators such as Flohio and Jelani Blackman, capturing both the historical and contemporary aspects of UK club culture.
The closing track, The Paradox, features Liverpool poet Roy (also known as PJ Smith), who offers nostalgic reflections that connect the past with the present. Thus, North West Tonight serves as both a celebration of Liverpool's hedonistic roots and a commentary on the uncertain future of its nightlife. The EP is now available for streaming, inviting listeners to delve into the intricate tapestry of Liverpool's musical heritage.
For more details on the release, check out the full interview with the duo on Dazed's website.