Vector Lovers

Vector Lovers

Vector Lovers is the electronic music project of Martin Wheeler, a producer from Reading, United Kingdom, born in 1969. The project works in electronic and IDM, with a sound also associated with electro, ambient and electronica.

Style and influences

Wheeler is described by Soma as a computer nerd and an 80s-obsessed knob-twiddler. His music is linked to intelligent dance music and electro, and it is compared with Kraftwerk. His influences include Kraftwerk, Depeche Mode, early synth pop, The Happy Mondays, Velvet Underground and My Bloody Valentine. He also listens to artists such as Isan, Boards of Canada and Aphex Twin, and to labels including Toytronic, AI and Ghostly International.

Releases and label connections

Vector Lovers comes to Soma’s attention through Wheeler’s Iwari.com label and two limited early releases: the Roboto Ashido Funk EP and the 7-inch Electrobotik Disco / Girl & Robot. These releases sell strongly in Glasgow’s Rub A Dub record shop, helping to build interest in the project. Soma later signs Vector Lovers after the connection is renewed through Sidewinder, another Fenetik artist who knows Wheeler from when both live in Reading in the early 1990s.

Live activity and reception

Wheeler performs a live set at Paisley’s Club 69. His production style attracts listeners internationally, and one DJ magazine review describes a Vector Lovers release as a significant and influential electronic record.

Related activity

Wheeler also runs the Iwari.com label, which continues to release electronic music, including records by Scape One and Namke Communications.