Martin King, a noted figure in the electronic and industrial music scenes, has made significant contributions as a drummer, producer, and arranger. Based in London, King's career spans several decades and includes key roles in groundbreaking bands, as well as ventures in music production and collaboration.
King's journey in the music industry began in earnest when he joined Test Dept, a legendary industrial band, around 1990. His tenure with Test Dept lasted until 2001, during which time he became deeply immersed in the industrial music scene. This period was crucial in shaping his musical direction and influence. In addition to his work with Test Dept, King was also associated with Pigface, another prominent name in the industrial genre.
In 2014, King founded Dogtablet Production & Commercial Music, marking a new chapter in his career. This venture allowed him to explore and expand his skills as a producer and arranger. DogTablet, the band he co-founded with Roberto Soave, represents a culmination of his experiences and influences. The band, while not strictly industrial, draws heavily from King's background in the genre, particularly his time with Test Dept. The music of Dogtablet is characterized by its dark, slow beats, and eclectic influences reflecting King and Soave's diverse musical backgrounds.
King's work with DogTablet is notable for its collaborative nature. The band's album "Black Space Dust & Memories" features a wide range of guest vocalists, each bringing their unique style to the music. King values the creative freedom given to these guest artists, especially in terms of lyrics and vocal presentation. This approach to collaboration has been a hallmark of King's career, allowing him to work with a variety of artists and incorporate diverse influences into his music.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1kOJeME2i50QpLIJ0kyuEQ
Transitioning from traditional studio setups to a home-based digital studio, King embraced the shift towards software synthesizers and virtual instruments. This transition, which took place around 2014, reflected broader changes in the music production landscape and showcased King's adaptability and willingness to explore new technologies and creative processes.
In addition to his work in the electronic and industrial genres, King has expressed admiration for other musical styles. He cites Portishead and the broader genre they represent as personal favorites and has expressed interest in collaborating with artists from different musical backgrounds. This openness to various genres underscores King's versatility and broad musical interests.
Overall, Martin King's career is marked by his significant contributions to the industrial music scene, his innovative approach to music production, and his collaborative work with a variety of artists. His journey from drummer in influential bands to a successful producer and arranger reflects his deep commitment to and passion for music.
https://dogtablet.bandcamp.com/album/the-summertime-ep
https://open.spotify.com/artist/5IXDga5wJ2IvUR6waqkjgr?si=aOmw558YSBqB4lv1VmS4sA