Altered State
by Matthew Collin (Serpent's Tail — 1997)

Matthew Collin has blessed us with an intelligent look at the underpinnings of rave culture in England. This book takes a serious look at the political atmosphere that only served to fuel the growth of the 'chemical generation.' By getting into the minds of the major players, we feel like we are there all over again.

Whether it is in a Manchester club, a large outdoor festival with Spiral Tribe, or in Ibiza during the summer of 1987, Matthew Collin makes the events that took place come alive.

Chronicling such scene legends as Sasha, Paul Oakenfold, Goldie, and Grooverider, this book reminds us how special those times were. People fighting for acceptance of their music, even their way of life.

Passion is stirred at the stories of police raids and gang invasions, mass arrests and cyber-hippie convoys.

This book also serves to inspire people who are new to the scene. By showing how it was done in the past, we can know better what to do in the future. As the culture continues to grow and to spread, to take root in more places around the world, more people can share in our ever-mutating techno traditions.

Another thing Matthew Collin does is write at length about ecstasy, how it has affected and impacted our culture, and how it has been misunderstood and abused.

When dance music and ecstasy came together in the mid-eighties, there was to be no looking back. It changed the essence of dance music, the way it was interpreted and produced. It also had a profound impact on the users themselves, opening their minds to new ways of thinking and new experiences.

Thus is the nature of an Altered State, a new take on reality, an enhanced perception. In the case of ecstasy, enhanced empathy towards fellow humans and a closer connection to the music which moves us.

DJ Tronic
June2K