Alan Tew

Alan Tew is the architect of the 'urban suspense' sound that defined 1970s British television. His music is a masterclass in tension and release, blending the sophisticated arrangements of a full orchestra with the raw, syncopated energy of a funk rhythm section. It is the sound of a city that never sleeps, filled with shadows, sharp suits, and high-speed pursuits.

What truly sets Tew apart is his 'judicious use of instrumentation.' He doesn't just use a Moog or a conga for novelty; he integrates them into a bombastic, dramatic whole that feels both massive and incredibly precise. The basslines are thick and propulsive, often serving as the heartbeat for soaring strings and aggressive brass stabs that demand the listener's full attention.

Start with 'The Hanged Man' or the 'Drama Suite' collections. These tracks were originally designed as library music for film and TV, but they stand alone as some of the most evocative and grooving instrumental music of the era. It is essential listening for anyone who loves the intersection of jazz-fusion and cinematic grit.