Category: Imported

Theme: Technologies, Tools, and Transformations.

Date: 11th June 2026

Venue: Rich Mix. 35-47 Bethnal Grn Rd, London E1 6LA

Venue Website

The Creative Industries Futures Symposium invites academics, industry professionals, researchers, practitioners and students to contribute to our fourth annual event.

This year’s theme, Technologies, Tools, and Transformations, explores the integration and application of innovative technologies within the creative industries/practices, spanning music, games, film, and beyond.

ACM’s Creative Industries Futures offers a unique platform for the exchange of ideas, best practices, and cutting-edge research, fostering collaboration between academia and industry. We welcome submissions that engage with the theme from diverse perspectives, exploring topics such as:

• Recent impact of technological advancements on industry practices
• The role of technology in shaping the future of creative industries
• Technologies as agents or inhibitors in creative practice
• Technologies and tools as paradigm disruptors (intentional or accidental)
• The development of new music-making tools: instruments, tools, periphery apparatuses.
• Innovative developments in software/hardware
• The evolution of technology and education

Types of Contribution

We invite submissions for the following formats:

1. Research Presentations
   • Abstracts of 250-300 words outlining your research, project, or findings related to the theme.
   • Presentations should be approx. 20 minutes in length, followed by a short Q&A session.
2. Panel Discussions
   • Proposals for engaging panel discussions (4–5 panellists) on critical issues affecting the creative industries and education.
   • Panels should encourage interaction with the audience and cover a variety of viewpoints on the theme.
3. Workshops/Interactive Sessions
   • Proposals for hands-on workshops or interactive sessions that allow participants to explore practical aspects of the creative industries (desired length of workshop should be provided in proposal).
   • Workshops should provide takeaways or skills that attendees can apply in their own work or studies.
4. Industry Case Studies
   • Submissions from industry professionals detailing real-world applications of innovative technologies in the creative sector.
   • These case studies should highlight specific collaborations, projects, or initiatives that have advanced the sector or related practices.

Submission Guidelines

Please submit your contributions through the symposium’s submission portal All submissions should include:

• A title for your presentation, panel, or workshop
• A 250–300 word abstract describing your contribution
• Names, affiliations, and bios of all contributors (up to 5 participants for panel discussions)
• Audio-visual or other technical requirements (if applicable)

We welcome submissions from a diverse range of contributors, including academics, educators, industry professionals, and students. All selected contributions will be reviewed by a peer panel for relevance, originality, and engagement with the theme.

Key Dates

UPDATE: Extension for submissions, round two deadline 30/04/2026 notification of acceptance note by 07/05/2026

• Call for Contributions Deadline: 2nd April
• Notification of Acceptance: 14th April
• Event Date: 11th June 2026

We look forward to your contributions to this dynamic, thought-provoking symposium!

Proposal Submission Portal

Submissions Portal

For any additional queries please contact: symposiums@acm.ac.uk

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We’re delighted to announce our new partnership with Ivors Academy! All Creative Artist, Producer Songwriters, and Composition students now receive a free Early Careers Membership. The Ivors Academy, home to iconic songwriters like Raye, Skepta, Lana Del Rey, and ACM’s own senior lecturer Tim Hawes, empowers songwriters and composers with unparalleled resources and opportunities.

Students will gain access to networking events, masterclasses, songwriting camps, and more—including the chance to apply for The Ivors Academy Scholarship and compete in The Ivors Rising Star Award with Amazon Music UK. Stay tuned for updates on our upcoming Ivors Academy-led masterclasses in the new year!

Take the first step toward your future—apply to ACM today!

For a tiny island, the UK has incubated and exported a vast quantity of cultural phenomena; none so prevalent today as dance music. From acid house, hardcore and rave to jungle, UK garage and drum & bass, we’ve put together a whistlestop tour of the UK’s electronic dance music evolution. 

1988: Acid House

It’s worth noting that this is by no means a comprehensive history or list of UK dance music. For the purpose of this discussion, we’ll pick things up from the moment that UK dance music truly came into its own; the Second Summer of Love, 1988. What is widely recognised as the moment of total inception here in the UK, the long hot summer opened ravers’ eyes to the potential of long nights dancing their cares away. The soundtrack to these hedonistic adventures? Acid house, of course.

Despite its roots in Chicago, acid house blossomed in the UK. The genre found fertile ground in the UK’s underground scene, where its hypnotic beats, synthetic melodies and the iconic squelch of the Roland TB-303 captured the imagination of a generation. Clubs like The Haçienda in Manchester and Shoom in London became the epicentres of this musical revolution, drawing crowds eager to lose themselves to the music and reach for the lasers.

As far as tunes go, “Oochy Koochy” by Baby Ford is an acid house classic. Released in 1988, it boasts a plethora of tropes commonly associated with the genre, including the unmistakable 303 bass lines and punchy kicks. The track’s infectious groove made it a hit among ravers and solidified acid house’s place in UK music history.

1989: UK Techno

Despite its origins in Detroit, Techno found its second home here in the UK. The UK techno scene of the late 80s and early 90s was game-changing, leaving a sizeable imprint on the electronic music scene worldwide. Following the acid house craze of the late ’80s, UK techno carved its own path with a raw, punchy, industrial sound. Clubs like Rage at Heaven saw artists like Aphex Twin, LFO, and 808 State breaking new ground with their blend of industrial beats, intricate rhythms, and mind-bending sounds.

Labels like Warp Records played a key part in the nurturing of the genre, with cities like Birmingham and Sheffield contributing to the scene’s diversity. Birmingham, for instance, became known for its relentless, industrial techno style, championed by artists like Surgeon and Regis. The early ’90s UK techno scene was characterised by a DIY ethos, underground raves, and a strong sense of community, which together laid the foundation for the global techno culture that followed.

1990: Rave & Hardcore

From the irresistible charm of acid house and techno came breakbeat hardcore, igniting the dance with energetically chopped drum breaks, four-to-the-floor kicks and euphoric pianos. Taking the energy of techno and acid house to new heights, breakbeat hardcore, or rave as it was often known, became the soundtrack to the illegal raves that defined the early ’90s UK dance scene. These raves, often held in abandoned warehouses and remote fields, were a breeding ground for musical experimentation and communal ecstasy.

Total Confusion by A Homeboy, A Hippie & A Funki Dredd epitomises the genre, capturing the raw, high-energy vibe of early ’90s raves with its euphoric introduction, stabby breakdowns and tribal-esque vocal samples taking the listener on a real journey.

1991: Jungle

As is the case with every point in this discussion, the history of jungle music could be an article on its own (in fact, it is). For the sake of brevity though, we’ll keep it short and sweet. 

The progression from rave and hardcore to early jungle can be boiled down to two distinct factors: a shift in tempo and the movement away from four-by-four kick patterns in favour of syncopated drum breaks, meticulously engineered snare rolls and deep rumbling bass lines. Jungle music emerged in the early ’90s as a darker, more complex evolution of the rave scene, with influences from reggae, hip-hop, and funk. This genre quickly became a staple of the UK underground.

Early-Mid 1990s: UK Garage (UKG)

As jungle matured, a new, equally energetic sound emerged from the streets of the mid-1990s; this bubbly genre would soon come to be known as UK Garage (UKG). UK Garage fused the soulful, vocal-driven elements of American garage with a distinctive British twist, incorporating elements of R&B, jungle, and house. The result was a sound characterised by shuffled rhythms, syncopated beats, and bubbling basslines. A step away from the somewhat in-your-face reputation jungle had earned itself, garage was all about bouncy vibes, club-ready rhythms, champagne and glowsticks. 

Much like jungle, UK garage both informed and reflected the identities of its following. Slowly but surely, garage made its way into the mainstream consciousness, blossoming from an underground phenomenon into a cultural movement that influenced not only music, but fashion and art worldwide. As it gained popularity, UK garage became synonymous with the vibrant nightlife of the late 90s and early 2000s, dominating clubs and radio stations across the country.

Mid 1990s: Drum & Bass

Before we continue, it’s worth clarifying that the difference between jungle and drum & bass has long been a point of contention among fans. While many argue that the terms are interchangeable, with the distinction only being applied retrospectively, it is mostly agreed that drum & bass existed as a development of jungle.

Taking the complex breakbeats and subby basslines of jungle and stripping back to produce a more polished, high-energy sound, drum & bass gained mainstream recognition. Higher tempos of 170 bpm and above, combined with lighter samples than its predecessor, gained drum & bass mainstream attention and it soon found its way into clubs and radio stations across the UK.

Mid-Late 1990s: Trance

Make no mistake, the UK wasn’t just exporting club-ready rhythms in the 90s; DJs were sourcing their sounds from the international stage, finetuning their selections in an attempt to spin the latest and greatest from around the world. Specifically, it was the import of sounds from European clubs that saw trance step into the limelight.

A genre born from the German dancefloors and Euro-raves of the early 90s, trance blossomed into the most popular dance genre in the UK during the mid to late nineties and early noughties. In the early days, labels such as Hooj Tunes and Platipus Records defined the UK sound, giving artists and producers a platform for their craft. As the decade progressed, larger labels such as Ministry of Sound pushed the genre into mainstream consciousness, with DJs and producers like Pete Tong, Sasha and Digweed all flying the flag for trance. 

Characterised by climactic build-ups, other-worldly arpeggiated synth lines and kick drums that cut to the core, trance built a devoted following that still stands strong decades later.

The Resurgence Of Rave

Ask any house-head, junglist or two-stepping garage lover, and they’ll tell you that dance music will never die. From breakbeat to gabba, dubstep to drum & bass, the UK scene is constantly evolving and reinterpreting itself, reflecting and informing the tastes of younger generations everywhere. Whether it’s Korea’s bubbling jungle scene, or New York’s love for old-school speed garage, UK dance music can be heard around the world, creeping into clubs and dominating dance floors. 

Here at ACM, we’re proud to nurture the next generation of creative talent, providing the expertise and resources required for students to innovate, experiment and carve their way within the future of music. Discover our range of courses and kickstart your journey today.

London plays host to some of the best LGBTQ+ club nights in the world, with a selection of safe and inclusive spaces offering live music and performances every night of the week. If you’re on the hunt for a great night out, here are 10 LGBTQ+ venues in London to keep on your radar.

Heaven

What? A cornerstone of London’s LGBTQ+ scene, Heaven first opened its doors to clubbers and party lovers in 1979, offering an energetic escape from Thatcher’s Britain. Bold, brave and unashamedly hedonistic, Heaven was the city’s answer to New York clubs such as Studio 54 and the Limelight. Today, the venue hosts a diverse selection of club nights, gigs and live shows, proudly toting its status as central London’s only 1,000-capacity venue.

Where? Under The Arches, Villiers Street, London, WC2N 6NG

When? The legendary space opens its doors to clubbers from 11:00 pm until 5:00 am, Thursday to Monday. 

Royal Vauxhall Tavern

What? A Victorian inn turned LGBTQ+ cabaret venue, the Royal Vauxhall Tavern sits at the centre of South London’s queer landscape. Open 7 nights a week, with a centre stage, high-end sound system and lighting setup, the space has time and time again proved itself to be more than just a venue. Winning numerous awards, including Best LGBTQ+ Cabaret Venue, the Royal Vauxhall Tavern is as intimate as it is exciting.

Where? 372 Kennington Ln, London SE11 5HY

When? The Royal Vauxhall is open 7 days a week, with full opening hours visible on their site.

Dalston Superstore

What? An East London favourite, Dalston Superstore is a bustling bar, club and cafe rolled into one. Known for its array of LGBTQ+ friendly events, the venue offers all manner of extravagant delights, including drag brunches, art exhibitions and club nights. With a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates diversity, Dalston Superstore is a hotspot for both locals and visitors.

Where? 117 Kingsland High Street, London, E8 2PB

When? Open seven days a week, with events and club nights running until the early hours on weekends.

Eagle London

What? Eagle London is a historic LGBTQ+ venue situated in Vauxhall, with a longstanding rep for an inclusive atmosphere and vibrant parties. Boasting a range of themed events, including the legendary Horse Meat Disco, you’re never far from a night of surprise and excitement at Eagle. With no shortage of disco balls or cocktails, Eagle London provides a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community to come together and celebrate.

Where? 349 Kennington Lane, London, SE11 5QY

When? Open Wednesday to Sunday, with events and club nights that keep the energy high well into the night.

Village Soho

What? Eternally youthful and gloriously flamboyant (in their own words), Village Soho is another of London’s original LGBTQ+ spaces, celebrated for its lively atmosphere and diverse crowd. Since opening in 1991, the venue has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike, offering a mix of live music, DJ sets, and themed nights.

Where? 81 Wardour Street, London, W1D 6QD

When? Village Soho is open every day, with extended hours from Thursday to Saturday for late-night festivities.

SHE Soho

What? It would feel wrong to discuss London’s LGBTQ+ scene without mentioning the city’s only dedicated lesbian bar; SHE Soho exists as a safe and welcoming space for queer women, non-binary individuals and friends. Known for its Wednesday drag karaoke, Thursday hip hop R&B dance hall, and occasional Monday pub quizzes, there’s no shortage of entertainment in this stylish subterranean bar.

Where? 23a Old Compton Street, London, W1D 5JL

When? Open daily, with various events throughout the week to suit every taste.

Two Brewers

What? Mention Two Brewers to any seasoned clubgoer, and they’ll tell you stories of lively drag cabaret shows, themed parties and night-long celebrations. Sat slap bang in the centre of Clapham, this is one of London’s most iconic LGBTQ+ venues, earning the space a number of awards, including the title of “Best LGBTQ+ Pub” in Britain. 

Where? 114 Clapham High Street, London, SW4 7UJ

When? Open weekdays from 5, with extended hours on weekends for early starts and late-night celebrations.

Freedom Bar Soho

What? Sleek, stylish and sophisticated, Freedom Bar is a staple of any Soho night out. A big name in London’s LGBTQ+ scene for over two decades, Freedom is loved for its theatrical ambience and luxurious decor, offering a mix of live cabaret, burlesque shows, and world-class DJ sets. Whether you’re looking for an intimate night out with friends or a high-energy party experience, Freedom Bar attracts a lively and diverse crowd, including many West End performers.

Where? 60-66 Wardour Street, London, W1F 0TA

When? Open Monday to Saturday from 4:00 PM to 3:00 AM, and Sunday from 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM.

Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club

What: As far as venues go, Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club is an East End icon. Celebrated for its old-school aesthetic and welcoming atmosphere, the space’s wood-panelled walls and checkerboard floors set the scene for drag nights, burlesque shows, karaoke, comedy, and DJ sets.

Where? 42-46 Pollard Row, London, E2 6NB

When? Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club is open Wednesday to Saturday, with hours varying depending on the event.

Circa Embankment

What? Last but by no means least is Circa Embankment. Nestled in the historic Hungerford House, this is the go-to spot for an unforgettable night out in Central London. Whether you’re into house, R&B classics, live DJ sets or simply fancy a cocktail, an endearing amalgamation of industrial chic and original Grade II listed arches create a stunning backdrop for high-energy club nights and memory-making.

Where? Hungerford House, Victoria Embankment, London, WC2N 6PA

When? Open every Friday and Saturday from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM.
Looking to take your first steps into the world of music? Why not study at our new campus in the heart of London? Whether you’re looking to take your first steps into professional composition, performance or production, discover why so many choose to begin their journeys at ACM today.

This year’s showcase featured four presenters; Javina Greene, Tobias Briggs, Luke Jeer, and, joining live from South Africa, Courtney Farrant. These wonderful students shared their diverse and engaging research themes with our live and digital audience and were a fantastic example of the creativity and innovation at the heart of ACM.

The event was more than just a platform for academic discourse, it was a celebration of the forward-thinking ideas and groundbreaking projects that were are sure will make positive impact in the future creative industries. From exploring the future of creative education and amplifying the voices of women in music, to designing cutting-edge synthesisers for music production, the presentations offered a compelling look at where the industry is heading and what creatives can do to remain agile and forward-facing.

What made this showcase particularly special was the blend of formal presentations with more informal, yet equally enlightening, armchair discussions and interviews. These moments provided deeper insights into the personal journeys of the presenters and the passions that drive their research. It was clear from the discussions that these individuals are not just contributing to academic knowledge; they are poised to become influential leaders in their respective fields.

The showcase was a testament to the depth of talent within ACM’s postgraduate school. The innovative spirit and intellectual rigor on display left no doubt that these presenters are on the path to becoming key figures in the creative industries. Their work really did exemplify what is possible when passion, creativity, and academic excellence converge.

As we look to the future, the insights and innovations shared at this event leave us hugely excited for how our Alumni will continue to contribute to the ever-evolving creative industries. The ACM Postgraduate Showcase is not just a reflection of current research, it is a preview of the future leaders who will shape the creative landscape for years to come. We are proud of the achievements of these presenters and eagerly await the impact they will undoubtedly have on the world.

If you missed this wonderful event, you can watch back the livestream here: 

Interested in a Masters course at ACM? Check out our postgraduate courses here: https://www.acm.ac.uk/postgraduate/

From venues and clubs to bars, pubs and record shops, decades of diverse musical influence can be heard throughout London. Be it Bowie or The Beatles, many of the world’s most adored artists recorded and sought inspiration for their seminal works in the city.

Video game music is so much more than background noise. It is a storyteller in itself, enhancing narratives, conjuring emotions and immersing players in otherworldly adventures. From the humble beginnings of 8-bit chiptunes to the complex and immersive orchestral scores of today, video game soundtracks have played a pivotal role in shaping the emotional and atmospheric depth of games.

Here are five of our favourites.

What Makes A Great Soundtrack?

Before we dive in, it’s worth clarifying that this list is by no means exhaustive, nor comprehensive. Music is a subjective art, after all, and it would feel somewhat hypocritical to say that any one composition is ‘better’ than another.

In order to compile our favourites, we considered the following criteria:

Cultural Impact

Soundtracks that have left an indelible mark on both the gaming industry and popular culture. So much so that many compositions have resonated with audiences beyond the gaming world, influencing other media and becoming iconic in their own right.

Musical Quality

Now, the ‘quality’ of any music is entirely subjective, so we’re sticking to composition, arrangement, and performance. This includes the use of innovative techniques, memorable melodies and the ways in which the score enhances the overall experience of the game.

Diversity in Genres

With so much incredible music out there, we wanted to include a variety styles to showcase the richness and versatility of video game music. The following list ranges from orchestral scores to electronic music and everything in between.

Legacy and Influence 

Many soundtracks have become legendary in their own right. Therefore, our selection considers the long-term impact of the soundtrack on the gaming industry and music community. This includes its influence on future video game scores and its continued popularity and recognition among gamers and music enthusiasts

In no particular order, here are five of the greatest video game soundtracks of all time:

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998) – Koji Kondo

Released in 1998, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is widely considered one of the greatest video games of all time; the game’s soundtrack certainly plays a significant role in its enduring legacy. Composed by Koji Kondo, the music of Ocarina of Time is loved for its memorable melodies and, most notably, the introduction of the ocarina as a key gameplay element.

Throughout the game, players learn and recite various songs on this instrument, each with its own magical effects, directly tying the music to the game’s mechanics. Themes like “Zelda’s Lullaby,” “Epona’s Song,” and “Gerudo Valley” have become iconic within the gaming community

Nier: Automata (2017) – Keiichi Okabe, Keigo Hoashi, Kuniyuki Takahashi

Fast forward nearly two decades, and Nier: Automata captured gamers’ hearts with its profound narrative, stunning visual development, and exceptional soundtrack. Composed by Keiichi Okabe, Keigo Hoashi, and Kuniyuki Takahashi, the music of Nier: Automata features a mix of orchestral, choral, and electronic elements that transition seamlessly with gameplay, adapting to the player’s actions and the game’s environment. This, coupled with the game’s emotional depth and atmospheric quality, lends itself to a truly immersive soundscape.

Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018) – Woody Jackson

Set in the United States at the turn of the 20th century, Red Dead Redemption 2 transports gamers to a fictional world of outlaws, cowboys, bandits and gunslingers. The game’s breathtaking cinematics and immersive landscapes are elevated to the point of wonder by Woody Jackson’s evocative soundtrack, vividly bringing to life the rugged, untamed essence of the American frontier. Each and every composition adds to the game’s overall narrative feel, underscoring pivotal moments with emotion that pulls players deeper into the story. The music doesn’t just accompany the game; it elevates the entire experience, sucking players into the brutishly-beautiful world of Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde gang.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) – Marcin Przybyłowicz, Mikolai Stroinski, Percival

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt was showered in critical acclaim for its richly detailed world and enchanting narrative, supported by an outstanding soundtrack. Composed by Marcin Przybyłowicz, Mikolai Stroinski and the Polish folk band Percival, the music of The Witcher 3 blends orchestral elements with traditional Slavic folk music, giving it a distinct and authentic regional flavour. Instruments like the hurdy-gurdy, lute, and dulcimer can be heard throughout the game.

As seasons change and day turns to night, hauntingly serene tracks such as The Fields of Ard Skellig reflect the beauty, danger and adventure that lays ahead. 

Journey (2012) – Austin Wintory

Mysterious and captivating, Journey allows players to explore an expansive desert world, full of secrets and sand. Released in 2012, the adventure game is celebrated not only for its innovative gameplay and stunning visuals, but also for its evocative soundtrack, composed by Austin Wintory.

A largely minimalist score with orchestral instrumentations, Journey’s soundtrack is as soothing as it is emotive, guiding players as they drift over dunes and explore buried ruins.

Each of the above examples serves as a testament to the profound impact that music can have on an individual’s gaming experience. These compositions do more than break the silence; they exist to elevate and immerse, transporting players to faraway lands and adding a new dimension to entertainment. 

From Austin Wintory to Koji Kondo, these composers played a pivotal role in the cementing of each game or franchise in popular consciousness. At ACM, we’re proud to nurture the next generation of talent as they define the future of music and games. Visit our course pages and unlock the door to endless creative opportunities.

Exploding onto the UK dance music scene in the early 90s, jungle’s evolution can be traced back to early reggae sound system culture and the blossoming European rave movement. From hardcore and breakbeat to early drum and bass, here’s our take on the rise of jungle.

Musical Roots

As is the case with any art form, music doesn’t emerge from a vacuum; genres exist as a reflection, reinterpretation or resistance of those that came before. As such, no discussion of jungle (or any modern dance music) would be complete without acknowledging the cultures from which it came. An amalgamation of roots, dancehall, reggae, dub and hip-hop, jungle exists as a continuation of the sound system culture nurtured by Black communities in London and around the world. 

From the soundsystem culture of the 1970s and 80s emerged a community of music lovers and dubplate connoisseurs, eager to bring new music to crowds and dancefloors. London-based systems such as Fatman Hifi, Coxsone and King Tubby’s were the point of reference for new sounds, playing the freshest pressings from around the world out of bass-heavy rigs; simultaneously informing and reflecting people’s love for the genres.

Breakbeat Hardcore

By the late 1980s, dub, reggae and ska were largely usurped by house music, a genre championed by Chicago’s Queer and Black communities. However, as the genre became increasingly commercial, it was only a matter of time before the underground made way for a new scene; enter rave and breakbeat hardcore.

The early 90s saw breakbeat hardcore rise to prominence, blending elements from the happy hardcore, hip-hop, breakbeat and techno being exported from Europe and America. This sample-heavy genre was characterised by meticulously chopped breaks (commonly lifted from hip-hop, funk and soul records), four-to-the-floor kicks and acid basslines synonymous with hardware such as the Roland TB-303. As we’ll get onto a little later, this scene was tied to the illegal raves taking place all over the UK.

As is often the case with grass underground movements, hardcore’s light burned brightly but was somewhat short-lived in comparison to its house and techno counterparts. By the early 1990s, the incandescent flame of hardcore began to flicker. Tied to media controversy and illegal raves, the genre retreated underground and a metamorphosis began.

Early Iterations

While the exact moment of inception is subject to debate amongst junglists even today, the track ‘We Are IE’ by Lenny Dee Ice is often cited as the first to collate all elements of the genre. Released in 1991, the track blends simplistic amen break cuts with hypnotic vocals and a deep sub-bass. That said, with a slower tempo of 136bpm, it is often labelled as breakbeat, hardcore or proto-jungle. 

Regardless of classification, Lenny Dee Ice’s track mirrored a transformation occurring on a wider scale; dance music had once again escaped the clasp of major labels and returned to the place from which it came: the people. The seeds of jungle were sewn, and they were big, bad and heavy. 

As the genre emerged, the terms “jungle techno” and “hardcore jungle” became popular to describe the transition from breakbeat hardcore to jungle music. This sound made its name through club nights such as A.W.O.L, Roast and Telepathy, championed by artists such as DJ Ron, DJ Hype, Mickey Finn, DJ Dextrous, and Kenny Ken.

The Junglist Massive: Records, Radio & Raves 

Described as Britain’s answer to US hip-hop, jungle was born and raised in home studios, pirate stations and warehouse raves. The latter of which played a crucial role in the mysticism and excitement associated with the genre. As the music gained popularity among ravers up and down the country, a number of pirate radio stations and DIY record labels emerged, championing the sound and shedding light on a new generation of musicians and producers. 

Labels such as Reinforced, Suburban Base, Moving Shadow and Basement Records pressed the latest and greatest from producers and MCs all over, providing DJs with dubplates (one-of-a-kind, unreleased vinyl pressings) and igniting dancefloors. Meanwhile, pirate radio stations (DIY studios, often situated in disused flats with crudely assembled antennae) such as Kool FM were broadcasting the sound throughout London, alerting ravers as to the location of raves and providing a space in which the boundaries of the genre could be expanded. 

Classification & Characteristics

So what makes a jungle track? Ask this question at a record store or rave, and you’ll be swarmed by audiophiles desperate to give their two cents on the matter. ‘It’s all in the bpm’. ‘It’s the way the breaks are cut’. ‘It’s the samples’. ‘It’s a feeling!’. The truth is that there are a number of unifying traits that can be found throughout the genre. The consensus is generally as follows: 

Tempo

Typically, jungle sits around the 160-170bpm mark, though earlier, post-breakbeat tracks started out as slow as 150-155bpm during the genre’s inception. 

Breaks

Without breakbeats, there would be no jungle. The genre’s loose, energetic sound can be credited to the sampling and resampling of first and second generation funk, soul and hip-hop breaks. Drum breaks from records such as ‘Amen, Brother’ by the Winstons, Lyn Collins’ ‘Think (About It)’ and ‘Funky Drummer’ by James Brown were sampled, pitched, sped and chopped to form rhythmic patterns synonymous with jungle.

Samples

Jungle’s richness and diversity is due to the sample-heavy process through which the tracks are produced. Everything from Reggae, Ska and Dub to Hip-Hop, Techno, Jazz and Soul was recontextualised by rolling breaks and guerilla sampling techniques. Be it rave stabs, pianos, vocals, orchestras or film dialogue, jungle is a genre rooted in experimentation and amalgamation.

Take, for example, ‘Burial’ by Leviticus. This 1994 jungle anthem samples the opening four bars of ‘Mademoiselle’ by Foxy, released in 1978. Likewise, ‘Valley of the Shadows’ by Original Unknown lifted a section of speech from the 1988 BBC documentary ‘Glimpses of Death’.

Production Techniques

Integral to the music is the means through which it is produced. A genre born in low-budget bedroom studios on easily accessible gear, jungle owes its distinctive crunch and bass to the hardware and equipment available in the early 1990s. 12-bit samplers such as the Akai S950 were coupled with sequencing software such as Cubase to chop, cut, layer and arrange samples and breaks into club-rumbling rhythms. Most notably, the S950 was famed for its ‘time-stretch’ feature, a form of sample elongation with a distinctive alien-esque sound that became a staple of the genre. 
Here at ACM, we understand the importance of looking back in order to step forward. With a deep understanding of genres’ rich histories, we keep our sights set firmly on the future, encouraging non-linear innovation and experimentation to ensure that our students are equipped with the transferable skillset required to thrive in modern industry. Discover our range of courses and kickstart your journey today.

From intimate jazz jams to lively blues sessions, open mic nights offer the perfect platform to test material, build confidence and connect with fellow artists. Whether you’re taking your first steps on stage or looking to refine your live performance, these venues are where the magic happens.

Here are some of the city’s best open mic nights.

Troy Bar, Hoxton, N1 6NG

Slap bang in the heart of Hoxton, Troy Bar is known for its eclectic mix of musical genres and high-energy performances. Framed by low ceilings and an intimately positioned audience, the venue’s ‘Hoxton Jam’ nights are a staple for local artists and enthusiasts alike. Despite the cosy arrangement, Troy Bar is no stranger to six, seven and even eight-piece bands, conjuring an atmosphere of experimentation and free-flowing creative collaboration.

Thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and supportive community, Troy Bar offers musicians a chance to showcase their talents alongside like-minded musicians. Whether you’re into jazz, funk, soul, folk or rock, this venue provides a stage for every taste. 

Ronnie Scott’s, Soho, W1D 4HT

A venue that needs no introduction, Ronnie Scotts is widely agreed as one the most iconic live music spots in London, playing host to many of the world’s greatest jazz musicians. From Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk and Ella Fitzgerald to Art Blakey, Stan Getz and Duke Ellington, countless creative geniuses have graced the stage.

As far as open mic nights go, Ruby Sings at Ronnie Scotts rivals the best, offering an array of vocalists a chance to hone their skills alongside a live band. Whether you’re into R&B, hip-hop, neo-soul, pop, jazz or funk, the club’s rich history and intimate setting make it a must-visit for any music lover.

The Blues Kitchen, Camden, NW1 7JN

If you’re looking for a spot with a lively, enthusiastic atmosphere, The Blues Kitchen in Camden is the place to be. Known for its regular “Sunday Blues Jam” sessions, this venue is a paradise for blues lovers and musicians eager to dive into the genre. The open mic nights here are a blast, with dynamic performances and plenty of opportunities to jam with talented artists. The rustic decor and soulful vibes set the perfect stage for a night of music and good times. Whether you’re up there playing or just soaking in the sounds, The Blues Kitchen guarantees an unforgettable experience.

The Spice of Life, Soho, W1D 5NA

Sat on the corner of Moor St, Soho, The Spice of Life is a gem for music lovers, offering a variety of events, including the popular “Jazz Notes” jazz jam. This spot is famous for its eclectic mix of acts and is known for welcoming new artists with open arms. The open mic nights here are perfect for musicians wanting to try out new material and connect with an open-minded audience looking to experience real musical variety.

With its intimate setting and lively crowd, The Spice of Life is an ideal place for artists to refine their craft and gain valuable performance experience.

Open Mic Nights: A Rite Of Passage

Open mic nights are an integral part of the UK’s music scene, acting as a stepping stone for musicians of every persuasion. Countless internationally acclaimed artists cut their teeth in dimly lit bars and energetic backrooms, laying the foundations for hugely successful careers. The likes of Bob Dylan, Adele, Tracy Chapman and ACM’s very own Ed Sheeran kicked off their careers at these grassroots events, honing their skills and building confidence in front of live audiences. 

These nights aren’t just about performances; they’re a long-standing tradition that encourages creativity, collaboration, and growth. If you’re umming and ahhing, here are three reasons to make the leap and take to the stage:

Testing New Music

For songwriters and instrumentalists alike, open mic nights are a chance to test new music and arrangements in what would generally be considered a low-stakes, supportive environment. That’s not to say you shouldn’t give it your all, but there is certainly less pressure than that of a headline show or big gig.

Whether you’re looking to experiment with alternative compositions, road test new material or refine your live performance, open mic nights offer an invaluable opportunity to grow as an artist. 

Building Confidence

Ask any professional musician and they’ll tell you that the only way to get used to playing in front of a crowd, is by playing in front of a crowd. There’s no way around it. If you’re looking to begin your journey as a live musician, regular performances are the best way to develop stage presence and confidence. The supportive environment of open mic nights allows artists to overcome the anxiety of expression and become more comfortable performing live.

Making Connections

Of course, it’s not all about the time you spend on stage. In fact, you may find that true opportunity lurks in the audience or by the bar. Musicians, promoters, publishers, venue owners and industry professionals are often found at open mic nights, enjoying local talent and keeping an eye on up and coming artists.

Taking the time to talk to other musicians and audience members is among the most beneficial aspects of an open mic night; conversations can lead to connections and these connections can lead to collaborations, gigs, and even recording opportunities. After all, you never know who’s watching. 
Looking to take your first step towards a promising career in music? Discover the courses that ignite careers here at ACM.