Kirk Field, an esteemed journalist and globetrotting music enthusiast, made a significant impact on the rave and dance music scene during its formative years. With a passion for music and an insatiable desire to explore the world, Kirk embarked on a journey that would shape the way people experienced and understood the electrifying realm of dance music.
For years, Kirk Field worked as a key contributor for Mixmag, DJ Mag and NME, all renowned publications that chronicled the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music. As a music journalist, Kirk was at the forefront of the scene, immersing himself in the pulsating beats and infectious energy of rave parties across the globe.
Kirk's wanderlust led him to travel to some of the most thrilling and influential rave dance parties of the time. From the legendary clubs of Ibiza to the underground warehouses of Detroit, he witnessed firsthand the power of music to bring people together, ignite cultural movements, and transcend boundaries.
In a testament to his extensive experiences and insights gained throughout his journeys, Kirk recently penned a captivating book titled "Rave New World - Confessions of a Raving Reporter" This book serves as a compelling memoir, delving into Kirk's personal encounters with DJs, producers, and partygoers, as well as his observations on the transformative power of rave culture and the many ‘substances’ that went hand in hand with the scene.
To celebrate the release of "Rave New World," an unforgettable event was held at Phoenix Sounds Record Shop in Newton Abbot. The intimate gathering brought together music enthusiasts, ravers, and fans of Kirk Field's work to partake in a day filled with nostalgia, engaging conversation and pulsating beats courtesy of local legend Matt ‘Vinyl’ Ward who put on a fine display of his electronic wizardry ahead of filling Queen Street with some of the classic club sounds that would have been blasted out of sound systems all over the world in its heyday. He even took time to show a couple of budding DJ’s the ropes and in a matter of minutes, they were scratching, fading and keeping the groove alive!
During the event, Kirk took the mic and mesmerised the audience as he shared captivating anecdotes from his book, regaling them with stories from the early days of the dance music scene. He recounted how the movement took the world by storm, giving birth to numerous subcultures and serving as a catalyst for the emergence of countless new music genres.
During his talk, Kirk emphasised the impact and legacy of the dance music revolution. He highlighted how it not only reshaped the musical landscape but also sparked a social and cultural revolution, uniting people from diverse backgrounds under the common umbrella of music and shared experiences.
As Kirk concluded his talk, the audience was left inspired, reflecting on the profound influence of rave culture and the unifying power of music. The event served as a reminder of the enduring legacy Kirk Field contributed to, documenting the rise of electronic music and paving the way for future generations to explore and shape the ever-evolving dance music scene.
"Rave New World - Confessions of a Raving Reporter" stands as a testament to Kirk Field's indomitable spirit and his commitment to documenting the cultural and musical phenomena that continue to shape our lives. Kirk's invaluable contributions as a music journalist have enriched our understanding of dance music and cemented his place as a revered figure in the industry.
If you missed the event at Phoenix Sounds, there is a small number of signed hardback books behind the counter, go and see Charlie or Jackie and they’ll sort you out (geezer).
