Black Sun Empire
π
1997
π Utrecht, The Netherlands
π΅ Drum & Bass
Easily one of the Netherlandsβ biggest drum & bass acts, Black Sun Empire have been producing intense, dramatic neurofunk and darkstep since the late β90s. Heavily inspired by the darker end of the dβnβb spectrum, particularly labels like No U-Turn and Virus and producers such as Ed Rush and DJ Trace, the trioβs constantly evolving sound typically includes heavy, choppy breakbeats, wobbly, distorted basslines, and suspenseful, cinematic atmospherics. While much of their tracks are structured with the dancefloor in mind, complete with massive builds and breakdowns, their work is equally suitable for home listening. Theyβve largely stayed true to their signature sound, but theyβve also explored dubstep and British rap, including collaborations with Foreign Beggars and Virus Syndicate. Largely releasing their music on their own eponymous label, as well as related imprints Blackout Music NL, Obsessions, and Shadows of the Empire, BSE have consistently produced fresh, high-quality work, and have earned widespread respect across the international drum & bass scene.