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Hovercraft live performance 1995-96
Hovercraft live, 1995-96

Two surviving members of 1990s indie band Hovercraft use AI to reconstruct their lost catalog, hoping the music will help reconnect with their missing songwriter friend.

In 1995, four friends in Grimsby formed Hovercraft and created what local press called “cataclysmic rock ‘n’ roll of the most intense order.” By 1996, they were gone - their songwriter Piers “Charlie Pepper” Wildman took the first train out of town, and later vanished after returning from a spiritual journey to India.

Thirty years later David “Golly God” Marsden and Aaron “Ron Nasty” Downing are using artificial intelligence to bring their lost songs back to life. Every reconstruction is both a tribute to what was lost and a signal to what might still be found.

Industry Recognition

The Promised Land artwork
Recognition from music industry professionals

Hovercraft’s AI reconstructions have earned validation from music industry professionals, curators, and tastemakers across multiple platforms.

The project’s unique approach to musical archaeology has resonated with both traditional A&R and contemporary digital music ecosystems.

15+ Industry Reviews • 5+ Blog Features • Multiple Playlist Adds

Professional A&R & Industry Feedback

New Champion Management
"Personally I'm really a big fan of this track. Your songwriting has great charisma and character. I would love to hear it live. I'm sure it would have great energy."
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PITCH Scotland | Scottish Alternative Music Awards
"I think this is an impressive piece of music you've submitted - very well written and presented. The lead vocal is particularly strong and sets the mood of the track."
Richy Muirhead - PITCH Scotland
No Such Thing Records
"Great vocals and this is what sets the scene for the track especially hearing that bass playing under the vocals... The choir and vocal layers really show off the skill and the impressive nature of this."
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7C Recordings
"The Promised Land delivers an interesting concept and engaging atmosphere, built on solid songwriting that blends indie and R&B influences... Clear structure and professional execution."
Executive Summary Rating: GOOD

Curator & Playlist Recognition

The Rhythm and Melody Room
"Hey Hovercraft, it's a pleasure receiving your track. We're glad to say that we'll add your track to our 'Romantic Viibe' playlist once it's released! Sexy and Beautiful! ❤️✨"
Multi-platform playlist addition
The Indie Grid
"Your track, The Promised Land, really impressed me, and I'd like to feature it on 'The Indie Grid.' It's a great fit and definitely deserves some attention."
Featured placement confirmed
Plastic Magazine
"We're really loving your music and would love to feature it on Plastic Magazine. We reckon it would be a great fit for us and our fans!"
plasticmag.co.uk
iLoveTaboos
"I really like what you are doing, the purpose and meaning behind it. It sounds great."
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Published Media Coverage

KIMU (Karl Is My Unkle)
"Hovercraft make intentional return and invite us to connect with the universe though emotive single 'The Promised Land'"
Read Full Review
FV Music Blog
In-depth interview about the reconstruction project and the band's innovative approach to musical archaeology
Read Interview
Odyssey Magazines
Featured review and profile covering the unique story behind the AI reconstruction project
Read Feature
Word Is Bond
Included in "Top Submissions EP2" roundup for August 2025
View Feature

"The project represents untapped catalog potential for authentic, emotionally complex material that works across demographics and genres."

— Industry consensus on Hovercraft's reconstruction approach

The Search

This project isn’t just about music—it’s about friendship, memory, and hope. Every reconstructed song is both a tribute to what was lost and a signal to what might still be found.

Timeline:

  • 1995: Band forms in Grimsby
  • 1996: Local chart success, then Pepper disappears
  • 2012: Brief Facebook reconnection, then silence again
  • 2025: AI reconstruction project begins

Current Status: God and Nasty continue reconstructing the lost catalog while searching for their missing friend Piers “Charlie Pepper” Wildman, last known to be in the Bournemouth area.

Listen: Music | Read the Full Story: Home | Photos Of The Band: Photos | Industry Recognition: About | Get in Touch: Contact

Help Us Find Pepper

If you have any information about Piers “Charlie Pepper” Wildman, please get in touch.

The search continues.