Kruder & Dorfmeister- DJ Kicks (2LP)
Kruder & Dorfmeister, the legendary slo-beat pioneers from Vienna, have long been regarded as two of the most influential producers in the global electronic and downtempo scene. Despite releasing only a pair of early, unofficial maxi singles, the duo quickly became some of the most sought-after remixers in dance music. Their reputation grew as major artists – including Count Basie, Bomb The Bass, Alex Reece and United Future Organization – entrusted them with reworking their tracks, resulting in remixes that are still considered genre-defining.
Their contributions to compilations from labels such as Ninja Tune, SSR and Wall Of Sound helped shape what would become the signature sound of trip-hop and laid-back electronic music in the mid-to-late ’90s. With their trademark combination of deep grooves, smoky textures and meticulous production detail, Kruder & Dorfmeister brought a new sense of sophistication to chilled-out club culture.
At the height of their creative momentum, while developing material for DJ-Kicks and their debut album, the duo famously turned down remix requests from U2, Grace Jones, Elvis Costello and even Die Fantastischen Vier – a testament to both their demand and their commitment to artistic focus. Their work remains essential listening for fans of downtempo and atmospheric electronic music.