Trackers and Breakbeats: Exhibition celebrates Brain Records’ underground revolution

A new exhibition is set to explore the groundbreaking influence of Brain Records and its underground revolution in the 1990s.

Trackers and Breakbeats: Celebrating Brain Records’ Underground Revolution, presented by Rendezvous Projects, will shed light on the often overlooked role of Brain Records and its founder, Bizzy B, in shaping the UK hardcore and jungle scenes.

The exhibition takes place at The Stephen Lawrence Gallery, University of Greenwich, from October 11 until November 2.

Bizzy B – Brian Johnson – founded Brain Records’ in 1992, in a small home studio setup which later became a cornerstone of DIY culture. 

Despite limited resources, Mr Johnson’s relentless creativity helped to establish a raw and unique sound that would lay the foundation for what is now a globally recognised genre. 

His innovative use of the Commodore Amiga and OctaMED software allowed him to push the boundaries of music production, whilst collaboration with the likes of Lennie De Ice, TDK, DJ Dlux and Peshay, cemented Brain Record’s crucial role in the development of the breakbeat hardcore and jungle sound.

London based producer and DJ, DJ Zinc said: “I love Bizzy B. I met him through pirate radio in 1992.

“Bizzy engineered my first few tracks at his studio on an Amiga with OctaMED and an s950 – that was my intro to tracker software, which he (very kindly) taught me to use. 

“I used OctaMED for a few years, including on Super Sharp Shooter. It’s great to see Bizzy getting the recognition he deserves, I’ll always be grateful to him for the kindness he showed me all those years ago.”

The exhibition features key Brain Records releases, studio equipment, photography, flyers, and oral history extracts, offering a comprehensive look at the label’s impact. 

It also reveals the close-knit nature of the scene and the connection between those working from “bedroom studios” to larger labels and influential producers.

Katherine Green of Rendezvous Projects said: “This exhibition seeks to correct that imbalance by honouring and recognising these true pioneers and innovators who have played a crucial role in shaping the UK music scene. 

“Bizzy B and the crew around Brain Records contributions have left an indelible mark on the genre and deserve to be celebrated.”

Pictured top: Bizzy B in home studio, 1991 (Picture: Courtesy of Bizzy B)