Dusted Down: Hypnotone – Hypnotone (Musique Pour La Danse)

Bleep, Italo, breakbeat and Balearic – this hidden 1990 gem has it all

Known for fostering groundbreaking acts like The Jesus and Mary Chain, Primal Scream, My Bloody Valentine, and Ride, Creation Records couldn’t ignore the burgeoning rave movement of the time. They initially released Hypnotone’s debut eponymous album – and now, nearly 35 years on, it’s been reissued by Musique Pour La Danse Holland.

Hypnotone were formed by Tony Martin and Martin Miller and emerged from the vibrant haze following the late 80s heyday of the Hacienda nightclub in Manchester. Their debut was born from a period of digital sampler experimentation and a deliberate attempt to capture the Balearic vibe. The LP was produced by the legendary Gonnie Rietveld of Quando Quango, whose genre-blending expertise was perfect for this project. Recorded at Spirit Studios, a creative hotspot whose list of notable artists who have recorded reads like a who’s who of Manchester. The Smiths, Simply Red, Stone Roses, Living in a Box, and 808 State all called the studio home for some of their most seminal works.

“Bleep techno” or “bleep and bass” was a uniquely British sound that emerged from Yorkshire in the North of England between 1988 and 1991. Characterised by minimalist, electronic bleeps and deep basslines, it was a pivotal yet fleeting moment in the evolution of dance music. Despite its short-lived presence, this genre left an indelible mark on the rave scene, influencing future electronic music styles. Hypnotone’s self-titled album is a great example of this sound, although fused with

First up is ‘Dream Beam’, a quintessential melodic piano house hit, encapsulating the sound of the early 90s. The vocals, typical of the era, speak of the new hippie electronic music euphoria, touching on themes of drugs and music. Despite the somewhat cheesy lyrics, the background music is where the true magic lies. The simplicity, combined with the magical essence of early electronic equipment and rhythmic innovation, makes this track enduring still. After a brief interlude with ‘Junovia’, ‘Potion 90’ is a futuristic techno track blending early trance, new beat, and house music.

The high-energy vocals elevate the rave atmosphere, making it a standout piece that pushes the boundaries of the genres it touches. ‘Italia’ features an incredible blend of piano, massive basslines, and intricate drum programming. The inspired house vocal performance lifts the track, creating a euphoric and danceable anthem that remains fresh and invigorating.

‘In Joy’ uses a reworking of the iconic piano hook from ‘Strings of Life’ brilliantly, paying a perfect homage to Detroit house and techno. It’s groovy and uplifting, with just the right amount of respect and innovation to certify it is as timeless. ‘SBX’ is edgier and foresees the darker side of rave music, it captures the essence of Manchester’s vibrant scene and aligns with the era’s seminal sounds, reminiscent of 808 State’s ‘In Yer Face.’ ‘Sub’ Closes the LP out and is an ambient house beauty that perfectly embodies the early morning chill-out vibe. With just the right amount of bleep, it provides a warm and cozy conclusion.

Overall, Hypnotone’s self-titled LP has remained a hidden gem for over three decades, especially outside of its native UK. This reissue is poised to elevate its status to legendary – and quite right too – allowing a new generation of listeners to appreciate its innovative blend of techno, house, bleep, and breakbeat music. 

Tim Humphrey

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