The Beat by SPUN - West Coast Breakbeat Rave Electrofunk 1988-1994. In the late 1980s, Disco was taking a backseat to the burgeoning psychedelic scene in San Francisco, marking a pivotal shift in musical culture. A dynamic transformation was underway as the younger generation sought a fresh auditory adventure, all while the devastating AIDS epidemic cast a somber pall over the city's nightlife. Amidst this evolving backdrop, a subtle yet distinct sonic movement quietly emerged within the confines of San Francisco's vibrant club scene, often referred to as 'The Beat.' Although Hip-Hop, New Wave, Gothic, Punk, and the burgeoning Modern Rock genre held considerable sway, the pre-RAVE clubs in SF witnessed the fusion of these genres into a unique amalgam of sound that insiders dubbed 'The Beat.' This musical tapestry encompassed everything from Hip-Hop and Freestyle to Industrial, New Wave, Boogie, Miami Bass, and Techno - the unifying thread being the distinctive vibe that characterized this eclectic mix. As House, Techno, and Raving gradually gained prominence along the West Coast, a distinctive interpretation of these evolving sounds took root. Drawing inspiration from influential hubs like New York, Chicago, Detroit, Europe, and notably the UK, which saw a wave of talented young DJs migrate to California, San Francisco became the backdrop for it's own version of the second Summer of Love. While the exact chronology might spark debate - some recalling '92, while others leaning towards '93 - what remains indisputable is the era spanning from 1990 to 1994, an unparalleled epoch of exuberant dancefloor revelry on the western shores. In the face of limited backing from major labels or established independent dance music entities of the time, a grassroots movement of labels and producers emerged organically, ardently championing this distinct sound and catapulting it onto the global stage. This sonic identity was deeply influenced by 'the Beat,' acting as a creative wellspring that informed the musical landscape. While the tracks compiled in these volumes might not encompass the entirety of this transformative musical epoch, they offer a vivid snapshot of the melodious tapestry that colored San Francisco and the broader West Coast during that era. Each track featured stands as a 100% Sure Shot that was played heavily by DJ Spun back in those very heady days.
Release date:
October 6, 2023
Label:
Install our app to receive notifications when new upcoming releases are added.

Recommended equipment and accessories
-
Turntables - Top Picks
A selection of reliable record players you can buy today, for every budget
-
Vinyl Care - Top Picks
A selection of accesories to keep your turntable equipment & vinyl records in the best shape
-
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
Featuring a one-piece carbon fiber tonearm, precision-tuned motor, and a heavy steel platter with TPE damping, it ensures superior stability and sound quality.
-
Phono Preamps - Top Picks
A selection of the best phono preamps for your turntable setup
-
Nobsound Little Bear T7 Tube Preamp
Delivers rich, warm audio through its high-quality vacuum tubes, featuring multiple inputs and adjustable gain
Featured Upcoming Vinyl
-
The Band CAMINO NeverAlways (Amazon Exclusive; Apple Red)
Atlantic
July 25, 2025 -
Zach Top Ain't In It For My Health [2xLP]
Leo33
August 29, 2025 -
Jehnny Beth You Heartbreaker, You
Fiction Records
August 29, 2025 -
Thin Lizzy Live And Dangerous (Metallic Silver) [2xLP]
Friday Music Two
October 31, 2025 -
Vicious Rumors The Devil's Asylum
Steamhammer
August 29, 2025 -
Dance Gavin Dance Pantheon (Cobalt/Orange Smush/Splatter) [2xLP]
Rise Records
September 12, 2025 -
Guenna Peak Of Jin'arrah
The Sign Records
December 31, 2025 -
We Are Scientists Qualifying Miles (Deluxe Edition, Red)
Groenland Records
July 18, 2025 -
Olga Amelchenko Howling Silence
Edition Records Ltd
July 11, 2025 -
Grey Daze Amends (Bone & Red Splatter)
Loma Vista Recordings
July 11, 2025 -
Royel Otis Hickey (Charcoal)
Ourness/Capitol
August 22, 2025 -
Alex Williams Space Brain
Lightning Rod Rec.
July 18, 2025 -
NØ MAN Glitter and Spit
Iodine Recordings
July 18, 2025 -
Dido No Angel (Deluxe Package)
Legacy Recordings
September 19, 2025