If you’re a fan of the dreamy, atmospheric sounds of the French electronic duo Air, you’re in for a treat. Their unique blend of downtempo, ambient, and electronica has captivated listeners worldwide. Here are 12 bands and artists that evoke a similar vibe and are worth exploring.
1. Zero 7
Zero 7, a British duo, is renowned for their mellow electronica and chillout music. Their debut album, Simple Things, features hits like “Destiny” and “In the Waiting Line,” which showcase their signature smooth, soulful sound.
2. Massive Attack
Massive Attack, pioneers of the trip-hop genre, have a rich discography that includes the critically acclaimed Mezzanine. Tracks like “Teardrop” and “Angel” are perfect examples of their dark, brooding, and atmospheric style.
3. Boards of Canada
Scottish duo Boards of Canada are known for their nostalgic, pastoral electronic music. Albums like Music Has the Right to Children and Geogaddi are filled with haunting melodies and intricate soundscapes.
4. M83
M83, led by Anthony Gonzalez, blends shoegaze, synth-pop, and ambient music. Their album Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming includes the hit single “Midnight City,” which is a perfect encapsulation of their expansive, cinematic sound.
5. Portishead
Portishead, another cornerstone of the trip-hop genre, is known for their haunting vocals and moody instrumentation. Their album Dummy features timeless tracks like “Sour Times” and “Glory Box.”
6. Thievery Corporation
Thievery Corporation, a duo from Washington D.C., blends electronic music with elements of dub, jazz, and world music. Albums like The Richest Man in Babylon and The Mirror Conspiracy are filled with lush, global sounds.
7. Stereolab
Stereolab, a British-French band, combines elements of krautrock, lounge, and electronica. Their album Emperor Tomato Ketchup is a standout, featuring tracks like “Cybele’s Reverie” and “Metronomic Underground.”
8. The Cinematic Orchestra
The Cinematic Orchestra, a British nu-jazz and electronic music group, is known for their lush, orchestral soundscapes. Albums like Every Day and Ma Fleur include beautiful tracks such as “To Build a Home.”
9. Goldfrapp
Goldfrapp, an English electronic duo, is known for their eclectic mix of glam rock, synth-pop, and ambient music. Their album Felt Mountain includes ethereal tracks like “Lovely Head” and “Utopia.”
10. Tycho
Tycho, the project of American musician Scott Hansen, blends ambient music with downtempo and chillwave. Albums like Dive and Awake feature serene tracks such as “A Walk” and “Ascension.”
11. Air France
Air France, a Swedish duo, is known for their balearic beat and chillwave music. Their EP No Way Down includes dreamy tracks like “Collapsing at Your Doorstep” and “June Evenings.”
12. Lemongrass
Lemongrass, a German electronic music project, blends downtempo, lounge, and ambient sounds. Albums like Pour l’Amour and The 5th Dimension feature relaxing tracks such as “Journey to a Star” and “Blue Skies in Your Eyes.”
Explore these artists to dive deeper into the world of atmospheric and ambient music.
