The Comeback of a Cultural Classic: Altered State Reissued
The world of dance music has long been influenced by a variety of cultural phenomena, but few have shaped its landscape as profoundly as the acid house scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s. One of the most important texts documenting this era, Matthew Collin’s Altered State: The Story of Ecstasy Culture and Acid House, is set for a reissue on June 4th, courtesy of UK publisher White Rabbit Books. This seminal book not only chronicles the rise of acid house but also explores the significant role of MDMA in framing contemporary party culture and music itself.
An Essential Examination
Originally published in 1997, Altered State has earned recognition as a definitive work on the intersection of music, subculture, and altered consciousness. It dives deep into the dynamics of the rave scene, focusing on how the accessibility of MDMA reshaped the experience of music and community. With its blend of socio-political analysis and personal narratives, the book approaches its subjects with both academic rigor and vivid storytelling.
This new edition will feature additional contributions from John Godfrey, ensuring that contemporary voices are woven into the narrative. This infusion of fresh perspectives will undoubtedly highlight the lasting implications of the acid house movement while contextualizing it within today’s evolving musical landscapes.
New Foreword by Kate Hutchinson
A noteworthy aspect of this reissue is the inclusion of a new foreword by London-based journalist and presenter Kate Hutchinson. Hutchinson’s insights are sure to resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers alike, offering a modern lens through which to view the legacy of acid house culture. By reflecting on her experiences and the evolution of dance music, she sets the stage for Collin’s narrative, reinforcing the lasting impact of the movement on British culture.
The Legacy of Altered State
Described as groundbreaking upon its original release, Altered State has left an indelible mark on the literature surrounding electronic music. The book paints a vivid picture of the “blissed-out image” of the rave scene, juxtaposed against the backdrop of the 1980s and ’90s. It provides a rich tapestry of narratives detailing how the vibrant culture surrounding acid house converged with the burgeoning interest in MDMA, fundamentally altering the perception of nightlife and music consumption.
The last English-language paperback edition was released in 2009 through Serpent’s Tail, making this updated version a highly anticipated return to a pivotal moment in music history.
Celebrating the Reissue
To commemorate the new edition, Matthew Collin will be touring various Rough Trade locations in London, Nottingham, and Liverpool during early June. These events promise to offer a more immersive experience, featuring discussions not just with Collin, but also with other key figures in the scene like DJ Terry Farley and Graeme Park. Each location will highlight its unique musical landscape, providing audiences a deep dive into the local histories that shaped the acid house uprising.
Pre-Order and Upcoming Works
Music enthusiasts and history buffs can already pre-order the new edition of Altered State through the White Rabbit Books website. The announcement of this reissue also re-ignites interest in Collin’s previous works, such as Rave On: Global Adventures In Electronic Dance Music (2018) and his forthcoming book, Dream Machines: Electronic Music in Britain From Doctor Who to Acid House (2024). Each of these texts adds further layers to our understanding of electronic music’s evolution, further solidifying Collin’s place as an important voice in the field.
A Look Into Dance Music Literature
For readers interested in the broader context of dance music writing, Matt Anniss’s 2020 feature, “How much of UK dance music history is real?” offers an engaging exploration of various books documenting the intricate niche of UK dance music. Anniss emphasizes the varied narratives that comprise the rich history of dance culture, making it a perfect complement to the themes expressed in Altered State.
Through this re-release, Altered State once again invites readers to engage with an essential chapter in music history, exploring the intertwined souls of acid house culture and MDMA, and the lasting impact they continue to have on our contemporary experience of art and community.
