Underworld, the British electronic music duo composed of Karl Hyde and Rick Smith, has been making music for over three decades. Their unique blend of techno, house, and ambient sounds has captivated audiences around the world, making them one of the most influential electronic acts of all time.

Photo Credit: Naomi Dryden-Smith

The duo formed in the 1980s as a synth-pop group called Freur, but eventually shifted their focus to electronic dance music. They scored their first hit with the track ‘Born Slippy’ in 1995, which appeared on the soundtrack of the cult classic, ‘Trainspotting’. The song became an instant hit and propelled Underworld into the mainstream.

Since then, the duo has continued to release groundbreaking music and push the boundaries of electronic music. Their live performances are known for their energy and innovation, with them incorporating cutting-edge technology and visual effects into their shows. In addition to its music, Underworld is also known for its collaborations with other artists. They have worked with everyone from Brian Eno to Iggy Pop, and their remixes have been sought after by artists like David Bowie and Björk.

Underworld’s influence on electronic music cannot be overstated. They helped to pioneer the genre of intelligent dance music (IDM) and have inspired countless musicians in the electronic music scene. Their music is characterized by its intricate rhythms, ethereal melodies, and pulsating basslines, and their use of live instrumentation sets them apart from many other electronic acts.

Despite their longevity in the industry, Underworld has never lost their passion for creating music that moves people – which was evident in their most recent London show at the iconic Royal Albert Hall. The gig was a powerful and unforgettable experience that left me feeling inspired and moved.

As I walked into the venue, I couldn’t help but feel that I was entering a sacred space, one where the power of music was worshipped and celebrated. The energy of the crowd, the electric atmosphere, and the anticipation for the performance all combined to create a sense of reverence that was palpable. Throughout Underworld’s headline set, the crowd’s energy was contagious, making it impossible not to be swept up in the excitement. The music was electrifying, and the performance was truly captivating. The sound quality was excellent, and the lighting effects were innovative, adding to the overall experience.

As I struck up conversations with several attendees and was reminded that the crowd was largely made up of older music enthusiasts who had lived through the birth of the rave scene. Their presence added to the feeling that I was witnessing something truly historic, and their stories and memories shared only added to the sense of reverence and respect for the music and the performers.

In a way, the event felt like a passing of the torch from one generation of music lovers to the next. It was a celebration of the past, present, and future of electronic music, and the energy and enthusiasm of the crowd were a testament to the enduring power of the genre.

Overall, the event was a testament to the profound impact that music can have on our lives and the ways in which it can bring us together as a community. It was an event that reminded me of the rich history and cultural significance of electronic music, and I left the venue feeling inspired and grateful for the experience. In the words of a fellow Underworld admirer – top banana!