British electronic music duo Plaid, formed by Ed Handley and Andy Turner, celebrated 30 years in the industry, marking a distinguished legacy that stretches back to their roots as part of The Black Dog. The duo first entered the music scene in the early '90s with their debut album Mbuki Mvuki, paving their own unique path in the rapidly evolving landscape of electronica alongside notable peers like Aphex Twin and Autechre.
Their journey began in a small village outside Ipswich, where a shared love for hip hop and breakdancing sparked their creative collaboration. Their discussions dive deep into the profound influences of early hip hop pioneers like Afrika Bambaataa and the heavily layered rhythms of funk, explaining how early artists shaped their musical outlook.
As they transitioned into the rave scene and acid house culture, Handley and Turner recounted defining moments, including the transcendent experiences at festivals like World Dance, where they first operated outside rigid musical conventions.
In their music, Plaid has always sought to merge complexity with accessibility, creating compositions that resonate on multiple levels. Their recent album, Polymer, showcases this dedication, having evolved from their earlier sound while maintaining a connection to their foundational genres.
Over their three-decade journey, Plaid has created a diverse portfolio, including albums, soundtracks, and collaborations with notable artists like Björk and unique projects such as the scoring for the animated film Tekkonkinkreet. This journey has emphasized not only the evolution of electronic music but also their commitment to grassroots subcultures and the intrinsic value of music as a means of connection.
To mark their anniversary, Plaid continues to engage with both electronic music scenes and broader artistic ventures, reflecting their legacy and ongoing evolution. Updates and releases, including Polymer, can be explored on their official site. For more information on their extensive discography check here.