EXRON’S BEST OF DOWNTEMPO 2020 – [READ]

The incredible variety of sub-genres and sub-sub-genres included under the umbrella term of “electronic music” makes this type of music truly unique. There is some amazing content coming out of the downtempo, trip hop, and ambient lounge genres. After the insanity that was this past year, this calming music will help chill you out and regroup for what we all hope to be the renaissance year of 2021.

“PULSAR” by ABUDUB from the album Tulus Alami

Lesser known Brazilian DJ Abudub incorporates reggae and southeast Asian sitar influences into this sexy track. You feel the atmosphere of a warm climate and relaxing vibe when the beat drops, yet it has a sensual intensity to keep you interested. Abudub’s talent in perfecting cultural eclecticism is both technically and creatively impressive. Abudub is definitely an artist to watch for in 2021.

“THIN AIR” by ISZLAI from the album Jazzamped

Jazz and electronic music share a similar freedom of expression, as the compositional form allows the music to go anywhere and to unexpected places. Budapest born Iszlai recognized the potential for a cross-genre project and executes the amalgam beautifully for his album Jazzamped. The artistic editing of jazz piano on “Thin Air” makes for a symphonic, electronic, supersonic “mellow”-dy. 

“I RAN WITH YOU” by LEIFUR JAMES from the album Angel in Disguise

The delicate piano music and crooner style vocals from Leifur James on this track make for the perfect lounge music. With a smooth jazz tone to the song, the piano accompaniment is perfectly integrated with electronica without sacrificing either of the stylings.

“LOVE HAS NO HEART FEAT. SHANA HALLIGAN – SYMPHONIK VERSION” by THIEVERY CORPORATION from the album Symphonik

Thievery Corporation is alive and well! Iconic downtempo duo Rob Garza and Eric Hilton have been making hits since 1995 and haven’t stopped, releasing the album Symphonik in March. The enticing lyrics and melodic vocals reel you in to an exciting and tragic love story. 

“TANGERINE SOUR” byEMANCIPATOR & 9 THEORY from the album A Thousand Clouds

Following the success of their previous collaboration of Cheeba Gold (2019), Emancipator and 9 Theory collaborate again with BRAND NEW music dropped December 11^th. Tangerine Sour has gained recognition with its Southern California laid-back urban vibe. We hope to see more collaborations between the two in the future; with 9 Theory’s delicate way with instrumentals and electronic magic from Emancipator, this duo creates collaborative relaxation masterpieces.

The best part of electronic music is the expansive variety of styles and vibes you can discover within the genre. With so many talented and versatile artists, we can’t wait to see what comes in 2021!