This year’s Synth East followed the format of 2024 but this time it felt like we knew what we were doing. It’s become a tried and tested formula for creating the perfect combination of Expo, entertainment and creative endeavours. There were synths, there were people, there was music and it could not have gone better.
A huge thanks go out to everyone who contributed to the success of Synth East. From the eager manufacturers, boutique modular makers and community groups, to the performers, workshop leaders and people behind the bar, you were all marvellous. But mostly my thanks go out to the interested and engaged synth community, whether worn out old gear nerds (like me), curious newbies or regular people who enjoy technology and music in equal measure. It was a great weekend.
Friday
Friday night saw the return of our film and interview combo. We sat and watched a stunning film called B-Movie: Lust & Sound in West Berlin by Mark Reeder which explored the Berlin music scene in the 1980s. That was followed by the fabulous Adam Buxton interviewing musician, artist and synth-pop legend John Foxx. Afterwards, in the bar we had Martin Noble-James of Revolutionary Biscuits pulling sounds from biomaterials.
Saturday Expo
The Expo was sold out and full of fabulous synthesizers, modular and colourful people. During the morning, we had some great performances from the good folks of the Norwich Synth Club.
And then, throughout the day, we had haphazard improvisations from the now legendary All-Star Patch-Off. This year, joining Robin Vincent, Gaz Williams, and Steve Davis were Nicki from Dots, modular legend Finlay Shakespeare and Magical Synth Adventurer Paulee Bow.
Saturday Night
Headlining our Saturday night gig was Seefeel. After critically acclaimed reissues of their mid-90s material, Seefeel returns with their first new music since 2011. Supporting Seefeel, we had modular composer and improviser Loula Yorke. Loula was part of the All-Star Patch-Off from the first Synth East in 2023 and has since released two critically acclaimed albums and performs all over the country. We’re delighted to have her back for a dedicated performance.
But before the professionals took to the stage myself and Paulee Bow pulled off a remarkable improvised set of electronic music and mayhem.
Sunday
Sunday is much more low key with some DIY workshops held at the Electronic Sound HQ. We had Jack from Beepboop Electronics showing people how to make tape loops and Simon from The Synth Shed helping people build their first module.
It was a fabulous weekend and we will absolutely be doing it again in 2026.