In late 1980, with the assistance of radio station Triple J, the band recorded tracks at Trafalgar Studios for the new music program. In November that year they entered a studio with Lobby Loyde as producer. The band's debut single, "Average Inadequacy", was released on 26 August 1981. Their debut self-titled, four-track extended play followed on 20 November; both appeared on the independent Phantom Records label. Machinations were managed by SCAM (Suss City Artist Management), which consisted of Sally Collins in partnership with Loyde. SCAM also managed The Triffids, Sardine v, The Sunnyboys, Tablewaiters and Local Product.