Underworld

Underworld is a British electronic music duo that electrified the UK dance scene in the late 1990s, with their unique blend of hypnotic, druggy-dub-club beats that incorporated elements of techno, house, and other sonic elements. The act's “Mk2” lineup buzzed under the influence of DJ Darren Emerson, who joined the core-duo of Karl Hyde and Rick Smith, the headmasters of the defunct 80’s new wave band Freur, and the previous incarnation of Underworld (Mk1), which was a commercial failure despite being on Sire Records.

About Underworld

Underworld's Karl Hyde and Rick Smith were musically aimless and broke after the failure of their commercially accessible music in the 1980s. When they took a leap into artistically satisfying but decidedly anti-commercial music, their rejuvenation came with a bang as they became one of the most prominent electronica innovators of the 1990s. Underworld became fully realized on their “first” album Dubnobasswithmyheadman, released by TVT Records in 1994, which was a modest commercial success. The album and a few key tracks from it, with their various extended mixes, were of the “underground” hipster blockbuster variety.

The duo's second album, Second Toughest in the Infants, gained even more commercial ground. During this time, a non-album track became Underworld's claim to fame: “Born Slippy .NUXX” hit it big as the signature song to the movie Trainspotting. The soundtrack also included Underworld's "Dark & Long [Dark Train]," the original version of which opened the first album.

Underworld solidified their reputation as innovators in the electronic music scene with their contribution to the opening ceremony music of the 2012 Summer Olympics. They contributed 11 tracks to the ceremony's soundtrack, Isles of Wonder, in various forms. Their Olympian effort won them the 2012 UK Q Award for Innovation in Sound.

Despite their success, the core duo of Underworld Mk2 shows no signs of running out of musical batteries anytime soon. They have released recent albums like 2016's Barbara Barbara, we face a shining future, their seventh studio album proper, live albums, live shows, side-projects, soundtrack contributions, and "deluxe," expanded anniversary remasters.

Underworld's unique style of music has given them a loyal fan base that has only grown over time. The duo has always pushed the boundaries of what is possible within the genre of electronic music, and this has helped them maintain their relevance in an ever-changing music industry. They are masters at using atmospheric sounds, whirring beats, and rich vocals to create music that is both mesmerizing and addictive.

Early Life and Career

Before Underworld became the musical visionary they are now, they were a band called Freur. Karl Hyde and Rick Smith were part of the band, which released two albums for CBS Records in the early 80s. Freur's music was synthetic pop with a new wave attitude. Although they had one hit single in the UK, "Doot Doot," the band's second album, Released, was a commercial failure.

The band disbanded, and Hyde and Smith found themselves without a way of making music. They moved to Cardiff, started a label, and began working on a different kind of music that stemmed from their experiences in the club scene.

After Hyde and Smith relocated to Romford, they teamed up with Darren Emerson, a DJ with extensive experience playing in clubs on the British club scene. Together, the trio pioneered what would become their signature sound, which fused elements of techno, house, and other sonic elements.

Evolution of their music

Underworld's music has always been forward-thinking and ever-evolving. They have a reputation for being at the cutting edge of the electronic music scene, constantly experimenting with different sounds, techniques, and approaches to music-making.

Their sound is characterized by the use of atmospheric sounds and samples, brooding beats, and the unique vocal stylings of Karl Hyde. Underworld's creative process is rooted in experimentation, with the duo constantly exploring new sonic territories. They have been known to incorporate anything from ambient sounds to elements of hip-hop into their music, always seeking out new ways to push boundaries and expand their sound.

Underworld has released several albums that showcase the evolution of their sound. Their first album, Dubnobasswithmyheadman, was a critical and commercial success, and saw the band exploring new sonic territory with tracks like "Cowgirl" and "Rez."

Their second album, Second Toughest in the Infants, was another critical success and saw the band incorporating more ambient elements into their music. It also featured the hit single "Born Slippy .NUXX," which helped to establish Underworld as one of the leading acts in electronic music.

Their subsequent albums, including Beaucoup Fish and Oblivion with Bells, showcased the band's continued growth and evolution, with each album featuring new sonic textures and elements.

Live performances

One of the defining features of Underworld's music is their live performances. The band has earned a reputation for delivering high-energy, captivating shows that showcase the depth and complexity of their music.

Their live shows are characterized by the use of cutting-edge technology, with the duo using an array of synths, samples, and other equipment to create a wall of sound that engages the audience and keeps them hooked throughout the performance.

Underworld has performed at some of the biggest music festivals in the world, including Glastonbury, Coachella, and Lollapalooza. They have also performed at many club shows, where they have earned a reputation for turning every venue into a pulsating dance floor.

Legacy

Underworld's contribution to the evolution of electronic music cannot be overstated. They have earned a reputation as pioneers in the genre, constantly pushing boundaries and experimenting with new approaches to music-making.

Their influence can be seen in countless other electronic acts, who have been inspired by Underworld's unique style and approach to music. They continue to be a vital force in the electronic music scene, and their legacy is sure to endure for many years to come.

Underworld's music is not for everyone, but it is for those who appreciate the value of experimentation, innovation, and creativity in music-making. They have created a sound that is uniquely their own, and their music remains a testament to the power of artistic vision and creative expression.