Top Buzz
| Company type | Collective |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1988 |
| Headquarters | London , United Kingdom |
| Products | Music (breakbeat hardcore, jungle) |
| Website | www |
Top Buzz was a British collective specializing in breakbeat hardcore and jungle genres, functioning as both DJs and MCs.
History
Originating in 1988, the group consisted of MC Patrick Jarrett (known as "Mad P"), DJ Mikee B, and DJ Jason Kaye, all hailing from north London areas including Tottenham and Enfield. Top Buzz played a significant role in coining the phrase jungle techno, a fusion of jungle and techno elements that developed from the hardcore scene around 1991. Their 1992 track Livin' in Darkness, released via Basement Records, is a notable representation of the sound prevalent during that period. The group performed as headliners at prominent events such as Amnesia House, Fantazia, Universe, Dreamscape, and Obsession.
A defining characteristic was MC Patrick’s ragga-style vocal delivery, inspired by Jamaican dancehall traditions. Patrick described the trio as "Two Blacks and a Bubble," a phrase referencing their diverse ethnic origins; 'bubble' is Cockney rhyming slang for Greek, alluding to Kaye’s Greek Cypriot background.
Following his time with Top Buzz, Mikee B became part of the UK garage ensemble Dreem Teem and hosted a show on BBC Radio 1 until 2005. Jason Kaye established himself as a prominent UK garage DJ, producer, and promoter; his Social Circles label gained recognition within underground circles, and he co-launched the 'Garage Nation' event series alongside Terry Turbo.
Patrick Jarrett transitioned into a culinary profession. He is the son of Cynthia Jarrett, who tragically passed away during the 1985 Broadwater Farm Estate disturbances in London.
Mad P and Jason Kaye maintained their performances under the Top Buzz name until Kaye’s passing on 11 March 2023.
Notable singles and EPs
- Livin' in Darkness/Violas Delight (Basement, 1992)
- Livin' in Darkness 93/Maintain Her (Basement, 1993)
- Livin a Dream/The Wok (Basement, 1994)
Noteworthy mixes
- Dreamscape Vol. 02 - The Vision (Dreamscape, 1997)