56. A Guy Called Gerald Voodoo Ray 1989

The story: Called Gerald Simpson, in fact: an early 808 State member and all-round electro genius who's still going strong today. This was his first solo effort and was so assured that many assumed G was from Detroit. Much of his early stuff was actually cut in his mum's Manchester attic.

The vibe: Faintly tribal acid-house, replete with glorious 808 squelches and random female chanting.
The Madchester moment: The chirpily cheesy keyboard solo (0:48). Possibly composed on his little sister's Casio.

Since you ask...: It was supposed to be called Voodoo Rage but Gerald's sampler copped out before the 'g'.

Album: Hot Lemonade

[Author: SH]

58. Annette Dream 17 1989

The story: The credited writer, Ricky Rouge, was really yet another nom de plume for Gerald Simpson, who was signed to DeConstruction by collaborator Mike Pickering.

The vibe: Acid house takes an unexpected funky Latin twist.

The Madchester moment: The cheeky one-fingered solo breakdown (2:41). Are you listening, New Order?

Since you ask...: When he worked as an A&R at Factory, Pickering signed James and the Happy Mondays.

Album: DeConstruction Classics.

[Author: DH]