The Opening Season Follows Scott Ferguson’s 35 Years in Underground Dance Music
Photo credit: The Afters – Official
In a groundbreaking move for music lovers everywhere, The Afters has unveiled a new audio documentary series that delves into the vibrant narratives behind underground music culture. This captivating series launches with a spotlight on Scott Ferguson, a figure who has significantly influenced dance music for over three decades under his moniker, Robot84. The opening season promises to take listeners on a journey through Ferguson’s storied career, tracing his roots and evolution within the rich tapestry of dance music.
What sets this series apart is its emphasis on long-form storytelling. Each episode allows artists to speak in their own words about the experiences that shaped them, intertwining personal anecdotes with the music they’ve crafted. The documentary spans various genres, including house, Balearic, and downtempo, reflecting the diverse shades of underground listening cultures that have flourished over the years.
Ferguson’s musical odyssey begins in his native Scotland, venturing through the vibrant streets of London and the sun-kissed beaches of Ibiza. Throughout the series, listeners will discover the pivotal records, relationships, and moments that have not only molded his sound but also defined his musical identity. The narrative is a celebration of both the highs and lows, showcasing how the dance music scene has been a steadfast companion through the years.
A particularly poignant segment of the documentary examines Ferguson’s recovery from an ischaemic stroke suffered on Boxing Day 2022 while visiting Gran Canaria. This life-altering event became a crucial turning point, leading Ferguson to revisit his archives, resulting in the release of an edit he had previously kept close to his heart: ‘Get It Right Next Time’, credited to Robot84 vs The Raff. In a heartfelt twist, this track began to gain traction when Jon Sa Trinxa started playing it at Café Mambo in Sydney in January 2023. For Ferguson, hearing his music resonate with listeners during his rehabilitation journey was a pivotal source of encouragement and hope.
The documentary doesn’t just center on Ferguson alone; it features insights from notable figures in the music industry. Contributions from luminaries like Bill Brewster, Colleen Cosmo Murphy, Pete Gooding, and Jon Sa Trinxa enrich the narrative, presenting a multifaceted view of the underground scene. Furthermore, the voices of Ferguson’s family and friends add depth to the story, illustrating the personal connections and relationships that have been integral to his journey.
Musically, the documentary immerses listeners in Ferguson’s sonic world, featuring a rich score that predominantly showcases his own productions, edits, and remixes. This curated soundtrack not only creates an engaging audio backdrop but also reinforces the themes of creativity, identity, friendship, loss, and resilience that pervade the series. It’s a poignant reminder of how music can be both a healing force and a means of self-expression.
For those eager to explore the soundscapes featured in the documentary, a companion album titled ‘Finding The Rhythm Again – The Records’ is available on Robot84’s Bandcamp, offering fans a chance to dive into the music that has accompanied this remarkable story. The album can be streamed and downloaded here.
As the series unfolds, viewers can catch the official trailer below, and delve deeper into the world of underground music by listening to The Afters here.
