Underground Pioneer Paul Davis Selects Classics Defining the 90s and 00s
Paul Davis, AKA Circulation, was a pioneer of the UK tribal and tech sound in the 90s and 00s. Alongside his then musical partner Matt Jackson, Davis helped define the underground sound of the day with a series of revered Colours EPs.
Read Next: Is Modern Techno Resurrecting 90s Trance?
Now Paul Davis is back in Circulation. He returns with a new label, Recirculate, and a fifth innovative EP, Recirculate Five. The EP is available on Beatport and it will be released on other streaming platforms December 31. In honor of the release, Paul Davis shares ten classics that defined techno’s golden age.
1. Basic Channel “Phylyps Track” – Basic Channel
I remember taking delivery of the first presses that came into the UK for my shop. The track blew us all away, dubbed out jazzy techno. One of the best techno tracks ever made.
2. Carl Craig “Televised Green Smoke” – Planet E Communications
My favourite Carl Craig track ever, the deeper melodic side of techno, an absolutely sublime record.
3. Planetary Assault Systems “Booster” – Peacefrog
What a bassline, a really funky track. I played this at Bedrock’s Second Birthday at Heaven, London and it took the roof off.
4. Mr G “G Strings” – Altra Moda Music
An infectious groove with a beautiful string line, you could play this, and I did many times, in a more House-y set.
5. Daft Punk “Alive” – Soma Records
I played this track to death, it sounds absolutely awesome on a big system, pure techno.
6. Lyot “Vainqueur” – (Maurizio Remix)
One of the deepest yet darkest techno tracks ever made.
7. Jeff Mills “The Bells” – Axis
Mr. Techno himself, one of my favourites of his super super, funky vibes.
8. Slam “Positive Education” – Soma Records
A timeless classic still powerful and emotive after 25 years, you could play this track at any point in your set.
9. Circulation “Green” – Circulation
Our first and one of the most played Circulation tracks. It was played by so many DJs of different genres.
10. Trancesetters “Roaches” – (Peace Division Remix)
Killer, killer track great for the floor just builds and builds from the tribal masters. “Underground will live forever baby.”
