Urbs & Cutex – On Our Way [Album Stream]
After over two decades, Vienna’s veteran beatmakers Urbs and Cutex back with their third album, “On Our Way”.
This surprising release is bursting with laid-back sounds and dynamic beats. The duo is in top form, staying true to their unmistakable sound while subtly expanding it to create a unique blend of modern beatmaking and downbeat music.
The two artists are known for their relaxed instrumental music, which combines elements of classic East Coast Hip Hop with atmospheric and deep grooves. Both began their musical journey in the early 90s as DJs and gained their first production experiences before teaming up. Their collaboration is considered defining for the electronic music scene of that period. Their two earlier albums from the early 2000s are being rediscovered by new generations and have already accumulated millions of plays on various streaming platforms.
Following a 22-year hiatus, during which each of them released solo albums, as well as numerous singles, remixes, and collaborations, they have reunited their forces. Their creative spark remains intact, and they pick up exactly where they left off two decades ago. With charming stubbornness, they create music that some might call retro, while others will find it timeless. They calmly state: “We search for everlasting truths”.
The album kicks off with a familiar style reminiscent of their 2003 release “Peace Talks!”: soulful and jazzy loops combined with driving Hip Hop beats. A surprise is the first-time inclusion of a rap part on one of their albums, contributed by a well-known New York artist from the scene.
As the album progresses, the style evolves into something new and truly unique. The duo uses elaborate arrangements and artful layering of samples to create pieces that go beyond simple Hip Hop loops. Across the 14 tracks, they skillfully balance uplifting moments with deep and hypnotic passages. They create a relaxed atmosphere, yet manage to avoid the monotony of typical chillout music and the stereotypical uniformity often found in modern Lo-Fi and Boom Bap productions.
Take a listen below.