S4E14 with Karl O'connor (Downwards Records)


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Sep 11 2024 79 mins   4

Today we welcome a godfather of the UK Techno scene to the podcast, Karl O Connor aka Regis is the co-founder of one of the UKs most important Techno labels 'Downwards'. Over the last 30 years Downwards has been the home of an authentic, serious and often punishing techno sound that has somehow managed to uplift and excite clubbers across the world without even so much as a nod to conformity. Established in the early 90s by Karl and fellow DJ and producer Anthony Child (aka Surgeon), Downwards cut its own path through the post rave club scene with a militant style of electronica that became know as the Birmingham sound, placing it geographically in the heart of the UK but also culturally in the same bracket as Detroit, Berlin and London. Techno is a futuristic medium that is not given to longevity but Karl's work proves that where there is dedication and authenticity the music can survive and flourish across generations. I am very pleased to speak with Karl O Connor and ask him to make me believe in Techno.


Before we go techno we return to Eamon's favourite subject; David Bowie. Adam Steiner has written an incredibly detailed book all about Bowie's seminal 1981 album 'Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps). The book is a fans dream as Adam goes on the deepest of dives into the mythology of one of Bowie's greatest works placing the record firmly in its time and place by discussing the world into which it was released.


Not only that but Eamon becomes a teacher for a day.




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