Modus Operandi: Vinyl 3LP Photek

Originally issued on Science/Virgin in September 1997, Modus Operandi established Rupert Parkes as an unmistakable force within the realm of drum and bass and downtempo –

Modus Operandi is presented here with scrupulous attention to the detail of its original UK first pressing and is available on three 140gm LPs 

Whether replacing a much-loved original, or adding to a collection afresh, this is a superior way to enjoy such enduring and influential music. Born in Suffolk, Parkes, learnt saxophone as a child, but by the early 90s, he like many others, got into electronic music, and by the middle of the decade was making inventive, skeletal, drum and bass. Photek was first heard on his own label, with releases such as The Seven Samurai and U.F.O, which brought him to the attention of Goldie, who released his calling card Natural Born Killa EP on his Metalheadz imprint. Photek’s slower take on what was then known as ‘jungle’, produced a half-step breakbeat, adding a glacial, mellowness to the relentless beats.

By the time of his signing to Virgin, Photek was truly making waves, and Modus Operandi was trailed by The Hidden Camera mini album, which reached the UK Top 40, as did the single Ni Ten Ichi Ryu. Modus Operandi was a critical and commercial success, reaching the Top 40 and establishing him as a go-to producer and remixer. The space around his beats and his ample yet judicious range of effects can be heard on tunes such as The Hidden Camera and the jazz-influenced title track.

Photek has not released a new album in over a decade. He now is an established film and television composer in Hollywood. However, his work is fondly remembered and still sounds as fresh as a drum and bass daisy.

Tracks: The Hidden Camera / Smoke Rings / Minotaur / Aleph 1 / 124 / Axiom / Trans 7 / Modus Operandi / KJZ / The Fifth Column