Invisibl Skratch Piklz
| Company type | Collective |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1989 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco , United States |
| Products | Music, turntablism performances, workshops |
The Invisibl Skratch Piklz represent a pioneering American collective of turntablists who emerged in the 1990s hip-hop DJ landscape, recognized for advancing the art of turntablism by crafting music through sample blending and employing several turntables as musical instruments.
History
Originally formed in 1989 under the name Shadow of the Prophet, the ensemble initially comprised DJ Qbert, Mix Master Mike, and DJ Apollo, who exited the group in 1993. Subsequent additions to the lineup included DJ Disk, Shortkut, DJ Flare, Yogafrog, D-Styles, The Tomkat, and A-Trak. Over time, they produced numerous mix compilations and albums, and appeared in documentaries such as Battle Sounds and Scratch. Their concluding live appearance took place on July 1, 2000, at Skratchcon 2000 held in San Francisco.
Due to their overwhelming success discouraging competition, the group was requested by the Disco Mix Club (DMC) to withdraw from participating in contests.
From 1995 through 2000, the Piklz concentrated on creating new material, performing internationally, and conducting workshops. They played a role in designing equipment for Vestax and Ortofon and were instrumental in developing the renowned "break record," a key tool extensively utilized within turntablism. A significant highlight included their International Turntablist Federation (ITF) showdown against New York's X-Men (currently known as the X-Ecutioners), with their performance later issued as The Invisibl Skratch Piklz Vs. Da Klams Uv Deth.
Individual members have embarked on solo ventures, most prominently DJ Qbert and Mix Master Mike. In 1997, Qbert, Mix Master Mike, Shortkut, and DJ Disk collaborated on the Praxis album Transmutation Live. The group reconvened for live sets at Soundset Festival in 2017 and Fool's Gold Day Off in San Francisco during 2019.
Discography
- Mongoose Shuttle (1997) (unreleased)
- Vs. Da Klams Uv Deth (1997) (Asphodel)
- The Shiggar Fraggar Show, Volumes 1–5 (1998–2000) (Hip Hop Slam)
- Shiggar Fraggar 2000 (2000) (Hip Hop Slam)
- The 13th Floor (2016) (Alpha Pup)