The trailblazing stargazers from Glasgow’s Numbers are throwing a party to celebrate a milestone of significant arithmetical value. Six years ago they arrived on the scene, bright eyed and bushy tailed, unwittingly setting new standards in a clubland bound by the barriers of familiarity. From then until now they’ve roamed like nomads, sporadically converging wherever they find the right space to bring together their beautifully considered synthesis of production, design and music.
Currently residing in the Subclub-terranean sanctuary of everyone’s favourite Jamaica Street institution, the Numbers collective have invited a mixed ensemble of past and present to aid them in raising an underage glass to their own achievements. Something oldish are MMM, skillful providers to Berlin’s revered Hardwax label and an integral part of the club’s blueprint.
Expect techno, house and electro in their most compelling formations. Representing the new are Gemmy and Guido. Together with fellow Bristol producer and former Numbers guest Joker, these guys are the subject of some serous hype that has been ruffling some well groomed media feathers of late. To capture an idea of their music you should consider the enlightened elements of grime and dubstep, breezy piano chords with playful synth funk and spaced out, sexy R&B. Look beyond the search for the heaviest bassline and you will find it.
For the first time in what seems like ages, musicality and melody have regained their prominence within the UK electronic scene, and once again, Numbers are there to let us in on where it’s heading next.
Words: Richie Meldrum