Outkast, the iconic hip-hop duo of André 3000 and Big Boi, revolutionised the music scene with their inventive blend of Southern rap, funk, and psychedelic soul. Hailing from Atlanta, Outkast brought the South to the forefront of hip-hop, breaking new ground with each album. Their early work, such as Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, laid the foundation with raw, funky beats and socially conscious lyrics that celebrated Southern culture and life. With Aquemini and Stankonia, the duo delved into more experimental territory, mixing spaced-out rhythms, futuristic production, and lyrical themes filled with love and introspection. Hits like Ms. Jackson and Hey Ya! brought them global acclaim, showcasing their ability to blend infectious melodies with complex, genre-defying soundscapes. Known for their vibrant personas and fearless creativity, Outkast remains one of the most influential acts in hip-hop, leaving a legacy that bridges musical worlds and generations alike.
Listen: Stankonia, Aquemini.
Air, the French duo composed of Nicolas Godin and Jean-Benoît Dunckel, are masters of ethereal, cinematic soundscapes that blend electronica, ambient, and downtempo pop. Emerging in the late 1990s with their debut album Moon Safari, Air captivated listeners with lush, dreamy compositions like Sexy Boy and All I Need, which evoke a sense of nostalgia. Known for their meticulous production, Air’s music is characterised by warm analog synths, soft guitar, and delicate vocal layers that create a uniquely atmospheric experience. Their sound is both futuristic and retro, drawing influences from ’70s synth pioneers, film scores, and lounge music, yet always remaining distinctively their own. Albums like The Virgin Suicides (scoring Sofia Coppola’s film) showcase their gift for conjuring emotion and mood through sound. Air’s music feels like a journey through outer space—tranquil, hypnotic, and timeless—making them pioneers of modern chill-out music.
Listen: Moon Safari.
Strange and otherworldly bleepy-bloopy bass music. Dubstep with a twist, sometimes. Funky others. Frequently orchestral and chill.
Listen: Polychrome.
Melancholy yet with a distinct head nod and bob. Yeah! We get it when the guitar swells and the beat kicks in. Instantly recognisable alt-pop.
Listen: The Three E.P.’s.
Hedonistic Indie icons of the Madchester era. Blending rock, hip-hop beats, and soul – activating the body’s autonomous dance response.
Listen: Greatest Hits.
Bonkers orchestral covers of classic G-Funk Hip-Hop tunes. A unique take on the genre, as it twists it into something dramatic and cinematic.
Listen: The Invisible Man.
Rhythm & Brew by Stealth Tactic
Slip into the sexy era of the nineties and noughties with some classic Soul, R&B, Hip-Hop, Indie and Alt-Pop. Music for grown-ups that still have the playful spirit alive and know how to throw furious shapes on the dance floor but have given that up to take it slow and go with the flow, you know?