Underworld, formed in Cardiff, Wales in 1980, is a British electronic music duo comprised of Karl Hyde and Rick Smith. Initially a synth-pop band with Darren Emerson joining later, they shifted towards a more techno and progressive house sound in the early 1990s, solidifying their influence on the electronic music landscape. Their breakthrough came with the track "Born Slippy .NUXX," featured in the film Trainspotting (1996), propelling them to international fame and becoming an anthem for a generation. The song's hypnotic beat, distorted vocals, and frenetic energy perfectly captured the film's gritty realism and became synonymous with the era's rave culture.
Underworld's music is characterized by its hypnotic rhythms, atmospheric soundscapes, and often cryptic, stream-of-consciousness lyrics delivered in Hyde's distinctive spoken-word style. They are known for their immersive live performances, blending cutting-edge visuals with their signature sound, creating an overwhelming sensory experience for the audience.
Beyond "Born Slippy," Underworld's discography includes influential albums like Dubnobasswithmyheadman (1994), a seminal work that established their unique sound, Second Toughest in the Infants (1996), and Beaucoup Fish (1999). They continued to evolve, exploring diverse sonic territories and collaborating with various artists, including Gabriel Yared on the soundtrack for Breaking and Entering (2006).
In recent years, Underworld has embraced experimentation and innovation with projects like DRIFT, a year-long project released in 2018-2019. This ambitious undertaking involved releasing new music, films, and written word every week, culminating in a comprehensive box set. This reflects their commitment to pushing creative boundaries and engaging with their audience in new and exciting ways, solidifying their position as pioneers of electronic music. They continue to tour and record, leaving an enduring impact on electronic music culture with their forward-thinking approach.
