Defected is marking its 25th anniversary with a book and vinyl box set.

The book, titled Defected: 25 Years In The House, looks back over the history of the label via first-hand accounts, archival photography, release artwork and flyers from Defected events. It covers topics such as the imprint’s birth and early years, financial struggles in an evolving industry and the enduring power of house music, as well as its global growth. 

Split across 25 chapters, it also focuses on some of Defected’s most iconic releases, as well as various club residencies and memorable parties. The accounts of Defected staff members past and present, as well as associated DJs and producers, feature throughout.

The book, which is limited to 1,500 copies, is written and edited by former Mixmag editor Nick Gordon, who said in a statement: “We let the interviewees’ words take centre stage – an oral history, if you will, the commentary is kept to a minimum, used primarily to set up the storytelling.”

Simon Dawson, General Manager of Defected, added: “Initially, Nick and I thought perhaps we may have bitten off more than we can chew. Hundreds of releases, perhaps the same number of global events and festivals. Where do we even start? How do we get that into an entertaining, honest and informative read?

“But there was no going back and as the interviews rolled and the soundbites flowed, we thought, hang on, this might actually be good. So here we have it; 25 years of Defected across 25 chapters – authentic, genuine tales from a quarter-century on the front line for house music.”

The accompanying limited edition vinyl box set, titled ‘Together’, integrates music by producers from the label’s famed past with tracks by newer artists who’ve appeared on the label. There are also exclusive collaborations and remixes, with 25 new productions appearing across 13 double-sided 12″ singles. Each record is individually sleeved and they are all housed collectively in a solid, silver outer case.

Defected: 25 Years In The House will be self-published by Defected next month, while the box set is available now. Both can be purchased at Defected’s online store.

Read DJ Mag’s feature on the label’s 25th anniversary, from July, here.

You can also find DJ Mag’s 2024 interview with Defected affiliate Sam Divine here.