the arkive

  •  - BBC Session
1/1 Afterglow
1/2 From Centre to Wave
2/1 Sunburst

Loop

BBC Session

Beggars Banquet
Released 28 May 2025
BBQ2683

Available now is the Loop live session, the third session from the upcoming BBC Radio Sessions Volume 2. Spanning decades from 1978 to 2000, each session has been remastered at Abbey Road and pressed to its own 12” clear vinyl record. These sessions capture the raw energy and unique spirit of BBC Radio's Peel Sessions, featuring exclusive recordings from bands on Beggars Banquet, Wiiija & Too Pure.

In 1990, following the release of their album A Gilded Eternity via Beggars Banquet, Loop recorded a seminal session for John Peel’s BBC Radio 1 show. The session featured blistering renditions of tracks like “Afterglow” and “From Centre to Wave,” blending hypnotic repetition with overdriven guitar textures. The session showcased Loop’s ability to stretch minimalist rock structures into expansive and immersive soundscapes, cementing their status as pioneers of the UK underground. The recordings remain a touchstone for fans of noise-rock, krautrock and psychedelia.

Formed in Croydon in 1986 by Robert Hampson, Loop emerged as one of the most innovative bands of the late 1980s alternative scene. Drawing influence from the likes of The Stooges, Can and Suicide, they forged a relentless, droning guitar sound that eschewed traditional songcraft in favour of repetition and sonic experimentation. Their albums, including Heaven’s End and A Gilded Eternity, received critical acclaim and cult followings, helping to pave the way for the shoegaze and post-rock movements. After disbanding in 1991, Loop reformed in 2013, continuing to inspire a new generation of noise aficionados.