In the world of instrumental electronic dance music, there is only one Bonobo. A bit like Skrillex before him who contributed much to the evolution of dubstep and related genres, Bonobo ushers in a new age of what is possible for the rebirth of trip-hop.
Sometimes you just don’t want to hear any vocals; and Bonobo creates a full narrative aesthetic, a sense of purpose, and a barrage of aural scenes, from nothing but mind and sample. It’s breathtaking. There is also the feeling that this is the sound of a generation, the modern equivalent of what was once a ‘rave’ vibe: an insiders’ club, full of youthful delight and fresh energy.
Ibrik, the latest drop from Bonobo, is a delicious combination of trip-hop, nu jazz, and downtempo flair, with a sort of confidence and purity that can only come from being on top of your game.
Simon Green, known by his stage name Bonobo, is a British musician, producer and DJ based in Los Angeles. He debuted with a trip hop aesthetic, and has since explored more upbeat approaches as well as jazz and world music influences.
