If you’re a fan of Portishead’s unique blend of trip-hop and haunting melodies, you’re in for a treat. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 18 bands and artists that evoke a similar vibe, offering you a rich tapestry of sounds to explore. Dive into these recommendations and let the music take you on a journey.
1. Massive Attack
Massive Attack is often credited with pioneering the trip-hop genre. Their albums “Mezzanine” and “Blue Lines” feature iconic tracks like “Teardrop” and “Unfinished Sympathy,” which have influenced countless artists.
2. Tricky
Tricky, a former member of Massive Attack, has carved out a niche with his dark, brooding sound. Albums like “Maxinquaye” and songs such as “Hell Is Round the Corner” are essential listens for any trip-hop enthusiast.
3. Hooverphonic
Belgian band Hooverphonic blends trip-hop with orchestral elements, creating a lush, cinematic sound. Their album “A New Stereophonic Sound Spectacular” and the hit single “Mad About You” are standout pieces.
4. Morcheeba
Morcheeba combines soulful vocals with laid-back beats, making for a relaxing yet engaging listen. Albums like “Big Calm” and songs such as “The Sea” are perfect for unwinding.
5. Lamb
Lamb’s fusion of trip-hop and drum and bass creates a unique listening experience. Their self-titled debut album and tracks like “Gorecki” showcase their innovative approach to music.
6. Sneaker Pimps
Known for their hit “6 Underground,” Sneaker Pimps blend trip-hop with alternative rock. Their album “Becoming X” is a must-listen for fans of the genre.
7. UNKLE
UNKLE is a collaborative project that merges trip-hop with electronic and rock influences. Albums like “Psyence Fiction” feature collaborations with artists like Thom Yorke and Richard Ashcroft.
8. Zero 7
Zero 7’s downtempo sound is perfect for fans of mellow, introspective music. Their album “Simple Things” and tracks such as “Destiny” are great starting points.
9. DJ Shadow
DJ Shadow’s groundbreaking album “Endtroducing…..” is a masterpiece of sample-based music. Tracks like “Midnight in a Perfect World” are essential listening for any trip-hop fan.
10. Bonobo
Bonobo’s lush, downtempo beats and intricate arrangements make for a captivating listening experience. Albums like “Black Sands” and songs such as “Kiara” are perfect for fans of atmospheric music.
11. Thievery Corporation
Thievery Corporation blends trip-hop with world music influences, creating a diverse sound palette. Albums like “The Mirror Conspiracy” and tracks such as “Lebanese Blonde” are highlights.
12. Archive
Archive’s expansive sound ranges from trip-hop to progressive rock. Their album “You All Look the Same to Me” and the epic track “Again” are standout pieces.
13. Kruder & Dorfmeister
This Austrian duo is known for their downtempo remixes and original tracks. Their album “The K&D Sessions™” is a seminal work in the trip-hop and downtempo genres.
14. Goldfrapp
Goldfrapp’s early work, particularly the album “Felt Mountain,” has a haunting, cinematic quality. Tracks like “Lovely Head” are perfect for fans of Portishead’s more atmospheric moments.
15. Esthero
Esthero’s blend of trip-hop, jazz, and pop creates a unique sound. Her album “Breath from Another” and tracks like “Heaven Sent” are essential listens.
16. Moby
Moby’s eclectic mix of electronic and ambient music has made him a staple in the genre. Albums like “Play” and songs such as “Porcelain” are great entry points.
17. Air
French duo Air combines downtempo beats with lush, atmospheric soundscapes. Their album “Moon Safari” and tracks like “La Femme d’Argent” are perfect for a laid-back listening session.
18. Cinematic Orchestra
Cinematic Orchestra’s fusion of jazz, electronic, and orchestral elements creates a truly unique sound. Albums like “Every Day” and tracks such as “To Build a Home” are must-listens for fans of intricate, emotive music.
Explore these artists and let the music transport you to new, captivating soundscapes.