Bristol's vibrant music scene has long been a source of inspiration and innovation, and now, a new exhibition is shedding light on its unique contribution to the world of drum and bass and jungle music. 'This Is Jungle Takeover' at the Royal West of England Academy (RWA) is a celebration of the city's rich musical heritage, showcasing the evolution of jungle music in Bristol since the late 1980s. This exhibition is not just about the music; it's a testament to the city's creative spirit and its impact on the global music industry.
One of the curators, DJ Flynnites (Flynn Ites), highlights the unique atmosphere that Bristol fostered during that era. "Bristol was a special, unique bubble back then, pre-internet, where only a few people knew how different and unique Bristol was. You had to be really into the music and scene. It gave space for a lot of musicians, artists, and people to do their own things." This sense of community and creativity is what made Bristol's jungle scene so special and influential.
The exhibition features album covers, flyers, photographs, memorabilia, and collectibles from 30 years ago, offering a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse world of Bristol's music scene. It also celebrates the work of the people who helped build the drum and bass scene, recognizing the contributions of not just the musicians but also the photographers, radio stations, and label owners who played a crucial role in shaping the culture.
DJ Krust (Kirk Thompson), another curator, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the pioneers and the broader community that supported the scene. "The obvious people get mentioned, but there were a lot of people who contributed to the culture, who should be getting more recognition. That's not just the people who made the music, but also the people in the surrounding cultures like photographers, radio stations, and label owners." This holistic view of the scene's history is what makes the exhibition so comprehensive and meaningful.
The exhibition is open until June 28, and it serves as a reminder of the power of local music scenes to influence and shape global trends. It also inspires us to look forward, using the tools and ideas of the past to create something new for future generations. As Flynn Ites suggests, "When we got to play outside of Bristol, that creative energy, that vibe, travelled. The people of London started catching on to it." This exhibition is a testament to the enduring impact of Bristol's jungle scene and its ability to transcend geographical boundaries.
