underw orld in djmag

[gaborez]

In the five years since their last album, AHDO, KH & RS have been busy indeed. They've released a 'best of' (1992-2002), made two soundtracks ('Breaking and Entering' and 'Sunshine') and engaged in the mammoth 'River Run' series of special internet only releases.
Now they're poised to drop a brand new record - 'Oblivion with bells' - which will transport the duo to vistas new.
"We've been writing solidly since 2003 and putting out records on the internet, twelves, live recordings and, of course, the 'River Run' series, and this is a physical version of that process." explained vocalist and co-producer Karl Hyde.

It's the first time that the pair have brought in fellow producers to help steer 'Oblivion with bells' in new directions. "We've opened the door a lot to friends," said Karl. "Pete Heller came in and listened to stuff, Pig and Dan checked it out, Brian Eno came up."

The combined influences have led to a new sound typically underworld but more expansive, taking in both influences of minimal techno and electronica, and elements of their film soundtracks.

"Last year we worked over at Cocoon with Sven Vath, and the guys over there, the stuff that's been happening in and around the German electronic scene for a while now, has been having an effect, that stripped down sound," Hyde rhapsodised. "We've also been working with the London Symphony Orchestra and all ports in between. It's what you've come to expect from Underworld - not to be any one thing."

Having just returned to the live arena with a triumphant gig at Wild in the Country, they've lined up some exciting new shows before the long-player is unleashed.
"It's always a bit of a shock when we come home and people still remember us," Hyde jokes. "Our tour starts in the US with the Hollywood Bowl on 9th September, then there's Red Rock stadium in Denver, on 11th, and New York's Central Park on 14th September. Then there's a British rout in October and a European tour followed by shows in Japan and the Far East"
"Central Park should be good, there should be quite a gathering there from what i've read on the internet."

Wherever you see them, be there with bells on!

[holden]

great little interview...i like the part where "Hyde rhapsodizes"