Artist page

**808 State Bio** 808 State, formed in 1988 in Manchester, is recognized as a pioneering techno group. The band was established by Martin Price, owner of Eastern Bloc record store, and Graham Massey, a producer and former member of Factory Records' Biting Tongues. Their debut album, *Newbuild*, was a collaboration with Gerald Simpson, who later left to pursue a solo career as A Guy Called Gerald. Following his departure, DJ duo Andrew Barker and Darren Partington joined the group. The quartet released the *Quadrastate* EP and the hit single "Pacific," which reached the UK top ten in late 1989. Their rise coincided with the Madchester music scene, aligning them with bands like the Stone Roses and Happy Mondays, and helping to bridge the gap between indie and dance music. In 1990, 808 State signed with ZTT and released *808:90*, which became a popular soundtrack for the rave generation and was embraced by DJs and rock audiences alike. The single "The Only Rhyme That Bites," featuring rapper MC Tunes, also made the UK top ten. In 1991, the group released *Ex:El*, featuring collaborations with Björk and Bernard Sumner of New Order. Although a planned US tour was canceled by Price, who chose to stay in Manchester to support local talent, 808 State continued to create music, releasing *Gorgeous*, which included contributions from Ian McCulloch of

For any edit requests, please reach out to info@rovr.live