Askel & Elere

Askel & Elere craft a sound that feels like the sonic equivalent of a high-resolution photograph of a glacier. It is undeniably liquid drum and bass, but it lacks the sunny, soulful warmth of the UK originators, replacing it with a sharp, Nordic clarity. The drums are crisp and detailed, often revealing the duo's background in live percussion, while the basslines provide a deep, grounding hum that feels both futuristic and organic.

What sets them apart is their ability to weave disparate influences - from West African folk to political punk - into a cohesive, high-fidelity electronic tapestry. There is a persistent sense of space in their mixes, a 'wide-screen' quality that suggests vast, empty landscapes. The melodies are often minor-key and haunting, avoiding the clichés of the genre in favor of something more cerebral and emotionally complex.

For those new to the duo, their 2021 album Simulations is the definitive entry point. It showcases their range from high-energy rollers to fragile, ambient-leaning experiments. It is the perfect soundtrack for moments of deep focus or solitary travel through urban environments after dark.