This episode features an exclusive conversation with Chris Watson and Steven Mallinder from legendary Sheffield electronic pioneers Cabaret Voltaire.

We discuss how the reformation of Cabaret Voltaire came about, how the band brought their music back together for the live shows, and their memories of the late Richard H. Kirk.

Steven also talks about the reissue of Code, one of our favourite Cabaret Voltaire albums, and we explore the music, memories and technology behind one of the most influential bands to emerge from Sheffield’s experimental music scene.

Cabaret Voltaire are back on the road this October for a UK tour, with the promise of performing tracks they didn’t play last time. For fans, it’s set to be a very special run of shows.

The tour starts in Belfast on October 8th, with the band’s last-ever show in Sheffield on October 25th.

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https://cabaretvoltaire.bandcamp.com/merch

For the very special 150th episode of Synthetic Dreams, I’m delighted to welcome a true pioneer of electronic music — French musician, composer and producer Didier Marouani.

Long before electronic music became a global phenomenon, Didier was experimenting with sounds, ideas and technology that would help shape the future of the genre. In this fascinating conversation, we look back at his extraordinary career and the story behind one of electronic music’s most iconic groups, Space.

Didier’s earliest musical influences and his journey into electronic music. The formation of Space and the ideas behind the group. The incredible story of recording the landmark track Magic Fly and the making of Didier’s brilliant Symphonic Space Dream album

From the earliest experiments with electronic sound to the music of the future, Didier Marouani’s story is one of imagination, innovation and an enduring passion for pushing musical boundaries.

So, for this very special 150th episode, let’s go back to where the future began.

This is Synthetic Dreams, and my conversation with the legendary Didier Marouani.

If you’re enjoying Synthetic Dreams, don’t forget to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And if you have a moment, please leave a rating and review — it really does help the podcast reach more listeners.

Listen, follow and join the journey into the world of electronic music.

For more information on Didier Marounai and his wonderful music visit: https://space.tm.fr

Space - Magic Fly (Original Video) - 1977

Space - Just Blue 1978

Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis

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Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

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This week I'm joined by electronic music pioneer Matt Black, one half of the legendary duo Coldcut and co-founder of the influential Ninja Tune record label.

Recorded while Matt was relaxing on a beach in Goa, India, this wide-ranging conversation explores Coldcut's remarkable journey from their groundbreaking early years to the latest innovations in interactive music technology.

We discuss, Coldcut's early career and the making of their debut album. Working with Yazz and producing the chart-topping hit The Only Way Is Up. The origins of Ninja Tune and how the label redefined independent electronic music. Plus, sampling, creativity, technology and the future of electronic music.

Whether you're a long-time Coldcut fan or discovering Matt Black for the first time, this is a fascinating conversation covering more than four decades of electronic music history and innovation.