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Their debut album Schubert Dip (1991) captured their raw energy and genre-defying sound. With follow-ups Stigma (1992) and Cha Cha Cha (1995), EMF took fans on an ever-evolving journey, shifting from dance floor anthems to darker, more introspective sonic territory. But by 1995 the toll of the spotlight and constant touring was beginning to tell and the band went their separate ways. Before bowing out gracefully, they released their hit version of The Monkees “I’m a Believer,” accompanied by comedians Vic and Bob.
During their hiatus, the members found new creative paths: frontman James Atkin launched a solo career while teaching music in Yorkshire; guitarist Ian Dench became a sought-after songwriter and music executive, collaborating with everyone from Beyoncé to The Prodigy; keyboardist Derry Brownson founded Little Killers (LK); and bassist Zac Foley played with the band Carrie.
In 2001, EMF reunited for a string of shows celebrating their compilation, The Best of EMF: Epsom Mad Funkers. But just as a full resurgence seemed imminent, tragedy struck. The sudden passing of Zac Foley in early 2002 shocked the band back into silence.Though they sporadically returned to the stage with new bassist Stevey Marsh and a memorable 2012 live video recording of Schubert Dip and Stigma, it wasn’t until 2020 that EMF truly reignited. Marking their 30th anniversary, the band released the expansive box set From Us to You, which included remastered classics and a disc of b-sides and unreleased archive material called Flipsides and Bonafides.