Initially, house and techno were seen as the preserves of Stateside artists.
But then things began to change. Sheffield duo LFO – Gez Varley and Mark Bell – scored a Top 20 hit with a self-titled track back in 1990, helping to ignite the UK electronic scene and providing Warp Records with much of their early impetus.
The project still continues, albeit with Bell as its only member. LFO emerged from its slumber last month, playing Warp's 25th anniversary bash in Poland.
Now, tragically, it seems that Mark Bell has passed away. Reports broke via social media, but recent tributes from Bjork and The Black Dog – all close friends – would appear to confirm the news.
Bjork posted a Mark Bell remix on her Facebook feed, while fellow Warp veterans The Black Dog wrote:
Goodbye Mark Bell, you made a difference.
— TheBlackDog (@TheBlackDog) October 13, 2014
UPDATE
A representative from Warp Records has confirmed news of Mark Bell's death, with the following statement being issued to press:
It's with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Mark Bell of LFO who died last week from complications after an operation. Marks family & friends request privacy at this difficult time.
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