Originally released in April 1994 on Finiflex (FF1009) and now fetching upwards of £70 on Discogs, The Mercury E.P. by State of Flux (Dave Clark and Roger Elliott) has long been overdue a repress; it now sees the light of day once again with fresh remaster by Keith Tenniswood. State of Flux were an integral part of the Scottish electronic music scene, during what is now considered as the classic foundational wave of British "intelligent techno". These tracks were written between 1992 and 1993, with the E.P. released to coincide with their first UK tour in 1994.
With the recent death of Andrew Weatherall, a hero and legend for so many thanks to his championing of all genres of music and endlessly supportive attitude, we saw a massive outpouring of grief and love – alongside a wealth of old mixes, personal recollections and tributes. One of his most beloved ambient mixes – billed online as Massive Mellow Mix; just Andy Weatherall 2 on the tape itself – featured both Mercury and The News, and was a firm post-club favourite, still keeping heads together over 25 years since it emerged. It is largely thanks to Weatherall and his reputation that the spotlight has been recast onto all sorts of obscure or well-known music, including this E.P.
Roger and Dave were young, skint and went their separate ways – burning brightly for a short period, then quitting while ahead. Dave has continued under a variety of aliases and always operated at the centre of Glasgow's electronic music scene, working most closely with Numbers and Optimo to cement the city's legacy.
supported by 24 fans who also own “The Mercury E.P.”
All the tracks are great. I slapped Infinite onto a mix and - being someone who completely forgets what he drops - each time this one came on I'd think "this bangs, I must pick that up some time", only to realise that I have already. FWIW, strength everywhere on this release, not just Infinite. Simon Whight
supported by 18 fans who also own “The Mercury E.P.”
Up there with the best of the best in 90's ambient house. This stuff is so good. 'Hope' is like a shimmering jewel in my music collection. I want this track to play when I cross over into the next realm. <3 Justin Goers