From Scratch with a three decade history and roots that
go back to Scratch Orchestra / UK , has developed a reputation for
an intermedia mix of music / sound, performance, sculpture, ritual
and theatre. Custom-built instruments made from industrial and natural
materials are combined with body-based polyrhythm, low-tech electrics,
and sound objects odd and familiar, to create an evocative theatre
of urban sounds and intricate rhythms.

Invention was central to the groups evolution and while the group
established a characteristic Pacific based identity with it’s
original instruments and rhythmic language, it regularly suprised
audience and critics alike with it's unique brand of magic.

From Scratch has worked in the Auckland area since the early 1970s,
changing shape and personnel over the years, at times expanding
to as many as 12. The most recent group was a threesome comprising
Phil Dadson, Shane Currey and Adrian Croucher.

Numerous LP's CD's and videos have been produced by FS including two
award winning films featuring works from the mid 80's Drum/Sing
and Pacific 3,2,1,Zero part 1. The groups most recent releases
are a Cd of "GLOBAL HOCKETS: Live in Europe", a video
document of the premiere of GLOBAL HOCKETS: Live at NZ Festival,
produced by Scratch Records, and a re-release of the complete Parts
1 & 2, Pacific 3,2,1,Zero on Atoll [www.atollcd.com]

Recent Action

The group's latest two projects are VOCAL ACROBATS (2003) and PACIFIC
PLATE (2001)

VOCAL ACROBATS was devised for AK03, (Auckland Festival 2003),
and featured guest improvisers Koichi Makigami (vocals and theremin)
from Tokyo and Mark van Tongeren vocals and chaos instruments) from
Amsterdam, who joined with Phil Dadson on extended vocals and invented
insts, plus double-bass player Clayton Thomas from Sydney, and scratchers,
Adrian Croucher and Shane Currey on assorted percussion. (See
this and PACIFIC PLATE under From Scratch: Projects, for
more details).

To make contact with From Scratch: email Phil
Dadson.

Email Phil you have any queries, requests for information or to
discuss fees etc for performances, workshops, lectures. Likewise
for orders; CD's, vinyl, videos or the F.S Rhythm Workbook.

tele/fax: 64. 9. 4835074

or write c/- P.O. Box 66060, BeachHaven, Auckland 1310, New Zealand.

Website photographs: special thanks to Atsushi Koyama, Max Osborne,
Godfrey Boehnke, John Lyall, Michael Saup, and Alastair McAra.