From Scratch was described by Wystan Curnow as, “among the greatest works in any art form to come out of (New Zealand)”.
While studying for his fine arts degree in 1968/69, Phil Dadson's experience as a member of Scratch Orchestra in London galvanised his inter-media approach to art and music-making. He founded Scratch Orchestra (NZ) in 1970, which was followed in 1974 by the formation of From Scratch. The ensemble has performed to wide acclaim throughout the world ever since.
From Scratch developed an international reputation for an innovative sound/performance style that included sculptural, ritual, and theatrical elements. Large custom-built instruments of extruded plastics, industrial and natural materials were used to create a range of strictly non-electronic sounds and energetic rhythms. The 1991 album, Songs For Heroes, was Rattle’s second release. Widely acclaimed, it remains a classic of New Zealand art music. This important, landmark recording documents and celebrates the vision and commitment of an artistic practice that has not only endured, but that continues to speak with profound creative and socio-political relevance.
In September 2025, a new line-up joined Phil (Adrian Croucher, Shane Currey, Darryn Harkness, Chris O’Connor) on a nationwide tour that concluded with a concert at at Kāhui St David's in Auckland. The event was recorded by Adrian Hollay for Radio New Zealand Concert, as well as John Jungseok Kim and Rueien Miao for Rattle. Steve Garden mixed the recordings with Shane Currey and Phil Dadson, which was used for the soundtrack of John Pain’s film of the concert, “From Scratch: Songs for Unsung Heroes” (which is available on video to rent HERE at AroVision-on-demand), and released on Rattle as In Concert at Kāhui St David's to coincide with a From Scratch performance at the Audio Foundation in late October, 2026.
