Djrum: Artist You Should Know

Djrum (pronounced “drum”) is the alias of London-based DJ/producer Felix Manuel. A bunch of KCRW DJs are spinning his tunes, but when Jason Bentley tweeted this weekend that the entire record “Seven Lies” is “exceptional”, I knew I better pay attention.

It’s a layered patchwork with a wide range of influences, from jungle and more minimal techno to dub and film scores. Fans of James Blake should check out the instrumental version of “Anchors”, available as a free download via XLR8R.

The album, Djrum’s debut, is out now via South London’s 2nd Drop Records. On his official bio, it says the sounds “are inspired by the rawness of urban London, influences of Portishead, DJ Shadow and The Cinematic Orchestra, jungle, minimal techno, classic house, broken beat – all seamlessly segued with a nod to jazz vinyl and film music.”

He’s also an in demand club DJ, supporting Jamie XX, Gilles Peterson, Rob Da Bank, Mary Ann Hobbs and more.

RR