Friday, 26. June 2026

Underworld

Underworld = Arsenal Fest 2026

Underworld is a British electronic band formed in the late 1980s by Karl Hyde and Rick Smith. Over the years, the group went through several phases and stylistic changes, ultimately finding its definitive and most recognizable form in the early 1990s, when DJ and producer Darren Emerson joined the lineup.

Underworld achieved global popularity in the mid-1990s with the hit Born Slippy (NUXX), which became an essential part of club culture and gained wider recognition as part of the soundtrack for the cult film Trainspotting. Their sound blends techno, house, trance, and experimental electronic music, characterized by Karl Hyde’s distinctive spoken-word vocals and hypnotic, repetitive structures.

Throughout their career, they have released a number of influential albums, including Dubnobasswithmyheadman, Second Toughest in the Infants, and Beaucoup Fish, all of which played a significant role in shaping contemporary electronic music and the global club scene.

Known for their long, energetic, and atmospheric live performances, Underworld has performed at major festivals and events worldwide, including the London 2012 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony, where they served as music directors for a segment of the program.

Today, Underworld is regarded as one of the most influential and innovative acts in the history of electronic music, continuously inspiring new generations of artists and fans of club culture.