Portion Control

Portion Control

Portion Control is a British electronic group from London, active since 1979. Its line-up includes Dean Piavani, Ian Sharp, John Whybrew and Ian Hicks. The band describes its music as electropunk or hard rhythmic electronics, and it is associated with EBM, electro-industrial, industrial, minimal synth and minimal wave.

History

The group first forms in 1980 and the original line-up runs until 1987. During that period, Portion Control releases a number of notable recordings on independent labels, including Illuminated Records, Rhythmic Records and Dead Man's Curve, with some self-produced material as well. In 1984, the band supports Depeche Mode on their UK and European tour.

In early 1987, Portion Control joins the management roster of Tom Watkins and signs to London Records, then disappears from view. It later re-forms under the name Solar Enemy, which operates from 1990 to 1993. The Portion Control name returns in 2002, when a fansite announces a resumption of activity. A short time later, the band releases a free downloadable software demo with graphics, a rare remix of an older track and samples of new material.

Releases and later activity

No full release follows immediately after that demo, but in early 2004 the band issues the double album Wellcome, whose title is inspired by the work of Sir Henry Wellcome. From that point, Portion Control remains active through concert and festival appearances and releases across several formats.

Recognition

Portion Control is regarded as one of the more notable obscure electronic acts, and has been name checked and acknowledged by artists including Skinny Puppy, Front Line Assembly and Solvent.