History
Spaceheads
Spaceheads is a duo comprising trumpet and drums, originating from Manchester and London. Formed in the early 1990s, they have released nine CDs and toured extensively across Europe and the USA.
Musical Approach
Andy Diagram performs on trumpet, utilizing electronics such as live loopers and harmonizers. Richard Harrison provides drums and percussion. Their music is characterized by a distinctive blend of styles, ranging from highly experimental passages to melodic and groove-oriented sections.
Formation and Early Releases
The partnership between Diagram and Harrison began in 1989. They started jamming together after rehearsals with other bands in the Manchester area. Initially, their collaborations were informal, consisting of occasional concerts. In 1990, they recorded the Pay Me My Money Down EP, a multi-tracked recording that aimed to create the sound of a large brass section. The EP sold out, and by the end of the year, they followed it with the full-length cassette, Ho! Fat Wallet.
Live Performances and Notable Collaborations
Despite continuing to play together, their first official live performance as Spaceheads was in 1993, where they employed multiple brass loops. In 1994, they gained significant attention with a highly publicized appearance alongside Aphex Twin. Their self-titled debut CD, featuring a mix of live and studio tracks, was released the following year, accompanied by a tour.
International Touring and Media Presence
Throughout 1996, Spaceheads toured Europe and the United States, recording the album Round the Outside at various radio stations during their travels. Their first music video, "Shoot the Boss," achieved moderate success on MTV Europe. By 1998, they had performed at several improvisation festivals in Europe and the Terrastock II festival in San Francisco. That same year, Ho! Fat Wallet was re-released on CD, with the Pay Me My Money Down EP included as bonus tracks.
Record Deals and 21st Century Evolution
In the USA, Spaceheads signed with Merge Records, releasing the album Angel Station in 1999, followed by further U.S. tours. Recordings from these tours were compiled into the live album Live 1999. Entering the 21st century, the duo decided to reduce their touring schedule to collaborate with guest musicians. They released two albums with sound artist Max Eastley on the French label Bip Hop: The Time of the Ancient Astronaut (2001) and A Long Way from Anywhere Else (2008). They also continued their association with Merge Records in the USA, releasing the album Low Pressure.
Recent Activity and Future Releases
Due to Andy Diagram's commitments with Pere Ubu's David Thomas and Manchester's indie band James, as well as Richard Harrison's family obligations, Spaceheads have been less active in recent years. However, 2013 marked their return with a series of EPs released on their own Electric Brass label.
More information and video content can be found on their official website: www.spaceheads.co.uk.
