History
Subhead
Subhead was an experimental techno duo formed by London-based artists Jason Leach and Phil Wells. Established in 1996, the pair launched their own self-titled label, Subhead Recordings, initially releasing exclusively 12-inch vinyl records. In 1999, Wells relocated to Tokyo, expanding his musical endeavors under the moniker DJ Sueme.
Live Performances and Evolution
Subhead gained significant recognition for their dynamic live performances. Their sound blended a core techno foundation with influences drawn from hip hop aesthetics and a pronounced punk rock ethos. This fusion contributed to their reputation for energetic and boundary-pushing sets.
Discography and Label Expansion
Breaking from their vinyl-only tradition, Subhead released their debut album, Neon Rocka, in 2000 on the esteemed techno label Tresor. Following this milestone, they continued to release new material through Subhead Recordings. To accommodate their prolific output, they also founded sublabels 2CB and Xtras.
Legacy
Tragically, Phil Wells passed away in December 2007 following a fatal brain hemorrhage. Subhead's innovative approach to techno, characterized by its live energy and genre-blending, left a notable mark on the electronic music scene.