About this item

In the late 1980s, disco was taking a backseat to the burgeoning psychedelic scene in San Francisco, marking a pivotal shift in musical culture. A dynamic transformation was underway as the younger generation sought a fresh auditory adventure, all while the devastating AIDS epidemic cast a somber pall over the city's nightlife. Amidst this evolving backdrop, a subtle yet distinct sonic movement quietly emerged within the confines of San Francisco’s vibrant club scene, often referred to as The Beat. Although hip-hop, new wave, gothic, punk, and the burgeoning modern rock genre held considerable sway, the pre-rave clubs in SF witnessed the fusion of these genres into a unique amalgam of sound that insiders dubbed The Beat. This musical tapestry encompassed everything from hip-hop and freestyle to industrial, new wave, boogie, Miami bass, and techno - the unifying thread being the distinctive vibe that characterised this eclectic mix.

As house, techno, and taving gradually gained prominence along the West Coast, a distinctive interpretation of these evolving sounds took root. Drawing inspiration from influential hubs like New York, Chicago, Detroit, Europe, and notably the UK, which saw a wave of talented young DJs migrate to California, San Francisco became the backdrop for its own version of the second Summer of Love. While the exact chronology might spark debate - some recalling '92, while others leaning towards '93 - what remains indisputable is the era spanning from 1990 to 1994, an unparalleled epoch of exuberant dancefloor revelry on the western shores.

In the face of limited backing from major labels or established independent dance music entities of the time, a grassroots movement of labels and producers emerged organically, ardently championing this distinct sound and catapulting it onto the global stage. This sonic identity was deeply influenced by the Beat, acting as a creative wellspring that informed the musical landscape. While the tracks compiled in these volumes might not encompass the entirety of this transformative musical epoch, they offer a vivid snapshot of the melodious tapestry that coloured San Francisco and the broader West Coast during that era. Each track featured stands as a 100% Sure Shot that was played heavily by DJ Spun back in those very heady days.

Finally, but by no means least, we unveil the third and concluding volume of this extensive, impeccably curated chronicle of San Francisco's underground rave scene and its unique soundscape. Mirroring the same fervour and meticulous track selection as the first two volumes, "The Beat By Spun" is nothing less than indispensable for any dedicated music enthusiast, DJ, or dancer. Once again, this collection showcases an outstanding array of tracks, featuring music from talents like Mattski, Bass Kittens, Hawke, and Deep2, all maintaining the high standards set by the previous volumes. It's a blend of rarities, classics, and obscurities, combining to deliver an exhilarating, almost transcendental experience to those who dare to immerse themselves in the sonics!

TRACK LISTING

A1. Tasti Box - San Francisco 
A2. Mattski - Live At The Brotherhood 
B1. Bass Kittens - Get A Grip (Mission St. Mix) 
B2. Housebound - Electro Rhythms 
C1. Hawke - 3 Moods In A Purple Garden (Robbie Hardkiss Mix) 
C2. Trailmix - Tequilla Sunset 
D1. Studio X - Los Kings Del Mambo 
D2. Deep2 - Sphere