Back To Mine

Back To Mine: A Journey Through Lo-Fi Soul and Electronic Dreams

Back To Mine, the brainchild of James Lavelle (of UNKLE fame), is more than just a music label – it’s a sonic journey through the undercurrents of electronic music, imbued with soulful warmth and a penchant for the offbeat. Launched in 1998, the label quickly became synonymous with lo-fi soul, downtempo electronica, and a touch of jazz, attracting artists from diverse musical backgrounds.

The Back To Mine sound is characterized by its laid-back, introspective vibe. Think soulful vocals, deep basslines, shimmering synths, and atmospheric soundscapes, often infused with a touch of jazz, funk, and bossa nova influences.

Some of the most celebrated releases on Back To Mine include:

• “Back To Mine” by Kruder & Dorfmeister: This landmark compilation, featuring collaborations with Roy Ayers, DJ Food, and Alice Russell, encapsulated the label’s signature sound and launched its international reputation.
• “Dubby Sessions Vol. 1″ by DJ Vadim:** This soulful mix of dub, hip-hop, and electronica showcased Vadim’s unique blend of styles.
• “The Sound of the 70s” by DJ Krush:** A captivating journey through 70s soul, funk, and jazz, remixed with a contemporary electronic twist.
• “The Sound of the 80s” by DJ Krush:** A follow-up to the “70s” compilation, this album showcased Krush’s mastery of sampling and his love for 80s synth-pop and funk.

Beyond the label’s releases, Back To Mine has been a platform for creative collaborations and friendships:

• James Lavelle and DJ Krush** have a longstanding artistic partnership, evident in their collaborations on the “Sound of the…” series.
• Kruder & Dorfmeister have worked with a diverse range of artists, including Alice Russell, Roy Ayers, and DJ Food, fostering a sense of community within the Back To Mine family.
• DJ Vadim and James Lavelle share a deep understanding of the sonic landscapes they explore, resulting in a series of collaborative projects.

Back To Mine has inspired a new generation of artists:

• DJs and producers like Four Tet, Bonobo, and Tycho have cited Back To Mine as a key influence on their own music, showcasing its enduring impact on the electronic music scene.
• The label’s focus on soulful, atmospheric soundscapes has resonated with a wider audience, influencing a revival of interest in lo-fi music and downtempo electronica.

Back To Mine is more than just a record label – it’s a sonic journey, a community of artists, and a testament to the enduring power of music to connect and inspire. It’s a testament to the artistry of those who sought to blend the soulfulness of vintage sounds with the innovation of electronic music, creating a timeless soundscape that continues to inspire and captivate.