The group has worked in the Auckland area since the mid 1970s, gaining its reputation firstly as a four person group, and later, during the early 1980s, as a trio. From the mid-nineties the group has many new instruments, and new members with founder Phil Dadson being joined by Shane Currey, Adrian Croucher and Darryn Harkness. From the start visual interest was equal to the music. Instruments characterised by their sculptural look have evolved from being random tuned to finely pitched, and from junk to custom built. Egalitarian and co-operative ideals are embodied in the music and performance.
Players share equal and similar roles with an emphasis on integration and balance.
Studied Fine Arts in Auckland, majoring in Sculpture and Time-based arts. Awarded Fulbright Scholarship 1991. Connect to his Elam page here . Studied Fine Arts, Auckland University graduating in Design. Percussionist with the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra.