Ep 559 EMF guitarist Ian Dench on new music & touring the states in 2025

EMF: Band HistoryEMF (short for “Epsom Mad Funkers”) is an English alternative dance band from Cinderford, Gloucestershire, England. Formed in 1989, they became known for blending dance rhythms with alternative rock and pop elements, emerging during the “Madchester” era.Their debut single, “Unbelievable,” released in 1990, became a major international hit, reaching No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in 1991. Their first album, Schubert Dip (1991), followed shortly after and included other singles like “I Believe,” “Children,” and “Lies.”EMF’s second album, Stigma (1992), showed a darker, more introspective side of the band but did not match the commercial success of their debut. Their third album, Cha Cha Cha (1995), leaned even further into experimentation, leading to mixed reception and declining sales. The group disbanded in 1997 following label struggles and internal tensions.After the passing of bassist Zac Foley in 2002, the band took an extended hiatus. They reunited for live performances in the 2000s and released a new album, Go Go Sapiens, in 2022 — their first full-length collection of new material in over two decades.In 2024, EMF released another new album titled The Beauty and the Chaos, continuing their tradition of fusing energy, melody, and dance-rock elements. This album marks another step in the band’s ongoing evolution, reflecting both their roots and new influences.Current and former members include: • James Atkin (vocals) • Ian Dench (guitar) • Derry Brownson (keyboards, samples; no longer active with the group) • Zac Foley (bass; deceased 2002) • Mark Decloedt (drums)Official Links • Official Website: https://www.emf-theband.com • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emf_theband • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EMFtheband • Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/emf_theband