Renegade Soundwave was a British electronic music group formed in 1990 in London. The core members were Gary Asquith (vocals, guitars, keyboards), Danny Briottet (bass, keyboards) and Geoff Smith (drums, programming). The trio emerged from the post-punk and industrial scenes, having previously been involved with bands such as the Madstones and the band that would become The Little Monsters.
Musical style and influences
Renegade Soundwave’s sound combined elements of industrial, techno, breakbeat, and dub, often featuring heavy sampling, distorted guitar riffs, and aggressive electronic beats. Their approach reflected influences from early industrial acts (e.g., Throbbing Gristle), dance-oriented electronic music, and contemporary rock.
Discography
- Soundclash (1991) – debut album, noted for tracks such as “Biting My Nails” and “Time Out”.
- In Defence of the State (1993) – second album, included the single “Bordertown”.
- In Session (1995) – compilation of live and studio recordings.
The group also released a number of EPs and singles, notably “Looks Like Love” (1992) and “The Tool” (1994). Their releases were issued primarily through the British label Concrete Records and later through their own imprint, Wasted Youth Records.
Career and legacy
Renegade Soundwave achieved modest commercial success in the United Kingdom and Europe, receiving airplay on alternative and dance radio programs. Their fusion of rock‑based instrumentation with electronic production contributed to the development of the early 1990s “industrial dance” subgenre. The band disbanded in 1995; members pursued separate projects, with Asquith later joining the band The Pop Group and Briottet forming the group The Steal.
Critical reception
Contemporary reviews highlighted the group’s “hard‑edged” sound and innovative use of sampling. Retrospective assessments regard Renegade Soundwave as a notable example of early 1990s British electronic experimentation that bridged the gap between industrial rock and emerging rave culture.
