Dead or Alive's Tim Lever surrounds himself with new technology as the band prepare for world domination. Tim Goodyer gets the word on writing, recording and performing.

Chas De Whalley gets Eurodisco orientated with Berlin beatmeister Zeus B Held

Since the members of Ultravox went their separate ways, Billy Currie's solo career has taken him from band leader, through studio owner, to record label boss for the release of his second solo album. Interview by Mark Jenkins.

Hi Energy wizard Mike Stock collides with Chas de Whalley during a sweaty get-down-and-shake-it interview

Fashion

Janet Angus discovers the secret of Peter's success in producing big selling dance music.

German producer Zeus B Held - the man behind the name - shares sampling secrets and delaying tactics with Tim Goodyer.

Andy McCluskey

Andy McCluskey reveals his dislike for synth programming and his penchant for the classics.

Uncle Chas de Whalley talks to Barry Andrews about life with Auntie

talk the best of

Wayne Hussey divulges all about the gear behind the Gothic grind

Who helped make Climie Fisher's single a hit? And the Pet Shop Boys', and Depeche Mode's, and Bananarama's? David Bradwell investigates the latest action in the Stock, Aitken & Waterman production stable.

The words "Stock, Aitken & Waterman" have adorned 50 hit singles in the last two years. Tim Goodyer finds there are two secrets to their success: determination and new technology.

Volume isn't everything

Greater reliance on hi-tech instruments in the studio means there's more demand for people able to programme them. Paul Gilby spoke first to Karin Clayton about her recently formed agency that supplies programmers for studio sessions, and then to Fairlight programmer Simon Lloyd about his work.

Playing Live

Electronic music live - a special focus

Historic pix of Jimmy Page and Marc Bolan, plus an interesting guitar or three.

A half-page of wit from Adrian Deevoy. Or should that be...

Eight top pop players and producers discuss the necessity of notation. Richard Walmsley chairs the debate

How to record a cheap live album — an easy way out with direction courtesy Richard Elen.

Beat Box Hits

Or, the much-maligned art of drum machine programming. Tony Reed talks to the experts, and Richard Walmsley dissects some classic tracks.

keith richard