Them&Us
London, England, United Kingdom | Established. Jan 01, 2012 | SELF
Music
Press
Them&Us's upcoming EP, Chapter 2: The Great Escape, out on November 23, is fantastical, operatic electronic music. The duo, consisting of former Basement Jaxx vocalist Ami Carmine and Beatbox champion Killa Kela combine spoken word, powerful vocals, and chest thumping percussion to create music that's equal parts rave as it is tragedy. Its trance-like melodies are alluring, but there's clearly some much darker at work beneath its intentionally beautiful outer appearance.
Read More on Noisey: These Guys Invented Six Brand New Musical Instruments in 48 Hours
The closing track, "Like Poison," debuting today on THUMP articulates the strange, varied influences of Them&Us. Sweet, cheesy pop melodies are there—that's undeniable. However, the track comes alive with expertly tuned drums that provide an intense vivacity. It's dirty, intense, and almost malevolent. Speaking to THUMP, the duo says, "Like Poison is themed around seduction. When we wrote it we had the vision of Greek mythology Sea Sirens, and how they hypnotized sailors to their demise with their voice and beauty. We liked the idea of the elements of fantasy, but also translating it into the real story of being completely consumed with someone." - Gigen Mammoser @ THUMP Canada (Vice network)
This November, electronic UK based duo Them&Us are set to further unleash their eclectic brand of beats to the world in the form of new EP.
Chapter II: The Great Escape and Chapter II: The Great Escape (The Beatbox Versions)
Comprised of Lee Michael (aka legendary beat-boxer Killa Kela) and former Basement Jaxx vocalist
Ami Carmine, Them&Us have been described as a ‘Game Of Tones’ which, with their highly distinctive style, perfectly encapsulates their capacity to blend the ethereal, beautiful and melodic, with heavy beats, soaring synths and rumbling bass.
With Them&Us at the helm, and co-writing, additional production and mix engineering from James Rushent (The Prodigy/Does It Offend You Yeah?), Chapter II continues their inexorable odyssey to electronic super-stardom.
From the sheer melodrama of EP opener ‘The Valentinian’ feat. a down-right inspirational speech from the late Uk actor and comedy icon Rik Mayall, to the Kate Bush-esque electro pop of ‘Can’t Keep Coming Around’, the combination makes for an irresistible offering.
Already described as ‘Massive’ and ‘Epic’ by UK radio heavy-hitters Alex Baker and Eddy Temple Morris, Them&Us have also picked up major radio support Stateside from the likes of KROQ and KCRW, and more recently winning award for Best International Act at the Toronto Independent Music Awards 2015.
Chapter II: The Great Escape drops on 27th November 2015, followed by its beatbox reincarnation,
Chapter II: The Beatbox Versions on the 4th December 2015.
After recently finishing up shows with KROQ in Los Angeles, and a November UK wide tour supporting band The Red Paintings, 2015 culminates with Them&Us’ London show on the 12th December with electro pioneers Does It Offend You Yeah? - T.H.E Music Essentials
From the group that features former Basement Jaxx vocalist Ami Carmine and legendary beatboxer Killa Kela comes the second chapter of future bass/pop/sonic brilliance, Including tracks like Rik Mayall sampling ‘The Valentinian’ and breathless 80s inspired but 2015 sounding ‘Can’t Keep Coming Around’, its everything that drew you to their unique and captivating sound and more, much much more. - Tariq @Free Breaks Blog
ONCE more I am back at the feet of one of the most assured duos in the U.K. I will get back to Them & Us shortly, but for now, I am reminded of a few different subjects. The issues of duos, variation and Electronic music are back under the microscope. When I look at the duos coming through at the moment- and something I have mentioned a few times before- there is so much diversity and difference occurring. I have bemoaned the lack of innovation in the solo market at the moment- and something affecting bands heavily too- so it is down to the duos to cling back some originality and quality. New music seems to be going through a depression at the moment and not providing as much wonder as you’d hope. The past few months have seen the odd great act come through, yet for my money, there are too few fantastic and memorable acts. It is left to look back at the established acts and artists coming through. Duos are among music’s most assured and reliable formations. In London alone you have such an array of genres and styles it is hard to get a grip on it all. I have reviewed everyone from the likes of Gypsyfingers and Jo Kelsey Music (featuring Niels Bakx); some multi-coloured and emotional music that has stuck in my mind- caused me to seek out similar duos and see what they are about. I have speculated before but I find the two-piece as solid and sensible a line-up as you can get. Band mentality means it often tempting (for bands coming through) to have their voice represented by the frontman/woman. A lot of times bands replicate their idols and stick too closely to others. There can be so many voices in the creative decision that the resultant sounds are muddled and unfocused. Solo artists have a similar problem whereby a lot of them- but not all of them for sure- tend to mimic and duplicate another. Being the sole voice of the music the decision-making can often be unwise and unchecked. What with the strain and effort of progressing- having few others bodies to promote the music- fatigue and issues can creep in. The duo has that perfect balance and harmony. There are not that many people clouding the creative process; there are more possibilities when it comes to genre/sound- compared to the solo act- and the whole procedure leads to great quality and originality. One of the biggest issues with music can be the underwhelming lack of diversity. There is so much stale and predictable songs coming through it can be quite depressing when listening. It is hard to be truly original in modern music- given how much music has come before- but there are so many possibilities available then you should be able to produce something different. The best bands, duos and solo artists are those that go the extra mile and subvert expectations. Before I raise a new point, let me introduce my featured act:
Members:
Ami Carmine (Vocalist, Songwriter, Producer) Lee Michael (Songwriter, Producer, Beatbox, Bass)
“Comprised of Lee Michael (aka Killa Kela) & former Basement Jaxx vocalist Ami Carmine, their highly distinctive style has been described as ‘a Game of Tones,’ perfectly encapsulating their capacity to blend the ethereal, melodic & beautiful with huge beats and heavy bass.
Let Them & Us take you on the highest journey of musical landscapes, monster drops & vocal hydraulics, blended gracefully with enchanting visuals & theatrics”.
I have been a fan of Them & Us for a while now and am impressed by the mixture of force and passion in their sounds. Sounding unlike any other duo out there you get a unique blend of sounds and styles. With Carmine having worked with Basement Jaxx- and having a sensational and original voice- you get a little bit of ‘90s/’00s Dance/Electronic with something soulful and beautiful. Completed by Michael’s Beatbox skills and production wonder and you have a duo that are among the most solid and promising in the U.K. It is hard to compare the two with anyone else out there: their passion and songwriting quality sets them aside as a serious proposition for the future. Whilst they employ (in their biography) my least favourite word in the English language- is there a musician that does not apply the word ‘journey’ to their music; like fingers down a blackboard to me- there is some truth in things. Those heavy beats and epic soundtracks are perfectly met with acclaimed confidence and stunning vocals. Most acts do not put so much consideration into the compositions and providing such a wonderful sound. Them & Us put so much detail and colour into their compositions it is easy to get lost in the dizzying sounds and huge score. The bond between Carmine and Michael is stunning and the duo seems like a perfect musical match. Electronic music is often overlooked as a venture for the new music. When it comes to new music, Folk, Pop and Rock are favoured: these are the genres critics look to and pull in the biggest bucks. I am seeing quite a few Electronic acts coming through- that blend in Pop, Soul and Rock elements- and the likes of Them & Us are a rarity. They have demonstrated how much energy; urgency and wonder can be elicited when you try something different and fresh. Blending myriad themes and ideas into their ‘Game of Tones’-style projection and you have an act that are going to be around for years to come. Having assessed their previous E.P. (Chapter I: And So It Begins…) I am excited to witness the long-awaited follow-up: the much talked-about gem Chapter II: The Great Escape. I will be focusing on one track- and tying it into the E.P. as a whole- but what they have achieved is a step forward and progression. Their strongest work to date, the E.P. shows consistent quality and some truly amazing moments. Mixing in some narrative segments- Michael’s distinct tones and an appearance from the late Rik Mayall- and their stunning imaginations and you have music that ranks among the very best out there.
Before assessing Like Poison– and a capsule review of their E.P. – it is worth looking back and seeing how the duo has progressed. The debut E.P. – Chapter I: And So It Begins… saw the London duo explode with intention and quality. Across the E.P. there was so much cinematic scope and epic themes. The lyrics tapped into relatable issues- emotional worries and relationship breakdowns- but there was optimism and redemption to be found. Mixing stresses and anxiety with uplifting and happier themes the duo impressed critics and fans with the range and quality throughout. Carmine demonstrated herself to be one of music’s most stunning and diverse singers. Her voice- on the E.P. – could go from intimate and passionate lows to euphoric and delirious highs- often within the space of a single line. Michael’s narratives and production skills perfectly combine and create something sensational. The originality displayed by Them & Us is infectious. Taking Electronic music to new places- blending in Pop and Soul sensibilities- the London two-some were so fresh out of the blocks. On their follow-up there was not much room for improvement. Most new acts have some shaky early moments and a lack of confidence. When it comes to Them & Us what has happened is an increase in confidence and innovation. Chapter II: The Great Escape contains more passion, emotion and wonder than before and marks them as one of music’s most important forces. If you are a fan of older and new Electronic acts- from the likes of Basement Jaxx and Nero- then you will find much to appreciate within Them & Us’s music. Having worked with Jaxx before, Carmine has that authority and knowledge of the genre. She manages to employ some of Basement Jaxx’s finest elements- the seamless blend of genres and command of music- into something new and bespoke. Whilst a lot of contemporary acts have a one-dimensional and uncultured approach to Electronic music; Them & Us are more concerned with epic proportions and sonic diversity. Entrancing and committed to the maximum, you have a duo that is unconcerned with comparisons and fitting into moulds. They do not hang onto the coattails of any other acts and are endlessly assured in their own skin.
When it comes to Chapter II: The Great Escape I have decided to focus on the track Like Poison. The E.P.’s standout track, it is a great representation of the duo and shows how memorable they are. The opening notes and moments see wordless vocals and electronics weave and create anticipation. The beats get heavier and more pressing as our heroine arrives at the microphone. With her voice dedicated and passionate, we get an intriguing opening sentiment: “I see you shine your light far away”. Delivered with attention and ellipsis, the thought builds early images and possibilities. My mind instantly goes to relationship quarters- someone beckoning the heroine from across the waves- and a new bond perhaps. Employing unique sentiments and lyrics (to ascribe love) and the song sets its stall up early on. Juxtaposed thoughts and intentions mix in the vivid landscape of the lyrics. Words of multiple lifetimes and dissatisfaction mutate into elicit kisses and a strange desire. The first verse sees the vocals presented with maximum attention to emotion and pace. Rather than simply sling the lines out like most would- no consideration to changing pace, time and signature- Carmine lets her voice stop and start; glide and stutter to create something head-spinning and unexpected. It not only emphasises the urgency and drama of the song but catches the listener by surprise. I get the impression Like Poison relates to a love that is already burning. Perhaps a boyfriend or sweetheart, you get the sense there has been eventfulness and a backstory between the duo. Propelled by a whirlwind composition and stormy weather, the vocals become more tense and pressing leading into the chorus. When the chorus does arrive we get a declaration of “breathe deep”: a thumping and chorused cry that radiates and spikes through the compositional clamber. With some Pop sensibilities our heroine attests her love is like poison: speaking to her beau, there is that dangerous and toxic potential afoot. From romantic-potential declaration, it seems like the song has cast itself in a different mould. After the chorus completes- and some more tangled electronics and vocals do their work- our heroine comes fully into the spotlight. The next verse sees our heroine state: “all over you is where I belong”. The thorn in the man’s side, there is that essence of vengeance and need to take back some control. Like a poison ivy, it appears there has been some conflict and argument. It would be interesting to know the circumstances behind the song- and what inspired it for sure- yet our heroine remains quite composed and level. Not letting her voice and emotions needlessly wanders, the words and direction remains true and solid. Before that chorus comes swinging back into view our heroine ensures the hero is put in his place. Not having asked Carmine and Michael the origin- and what influenced Like Poison– but there seems to be a particularly personal and relevant backstory. The vocals and composition mix the current-day edge of Electronic and club music; tying it to a vocal that puts me in mind of late-‘90s/early-‘00s Pop regency. Carmine sounds at her peak here and lets her full range come to the forefront. Riding that composition wave, the track really starts to burrow into the mind. It is hard to ignore the energy and persistent of the track: never subsiding or relaxing, there is a constant force that the listener will become intoxicated by. Those hard and primal beats marry with swelling and hypnotic electronics. The chorus is the most astute and fullest representation of these ideals. Pummeling and punching; catchy and entranced, you cannot deny we have one of 2015’s most indelible choruses. Before the song is completed, our heroine comes back into the fray once more. Wanting to swim through the man’s bloodstream and veins- like a poison and toxic energy- part of my mind wondered if there was cynicism or negativity- or if there was some ambiguity. Perhaps doubting my own interpretation, perhaps there is some lingering passion and desire? The closing moments are dedicated to wordless vocals and a compositional swirl. Carmine’s vocals still press and weave yet it is that composition that fires and blasts its way to the finish line.
Being familiar with Them & Us I was expecting something magical from the new E.P. Like Poison is perhaps the duo’s most immediate and dramatic moment to date. Consistently energetic and epic, the song ensures that few listeners will forget it. That chorus is perhaps the most catchy and sing-along they have penned and showcases a real knack for memorability. Confident and bold, the track gets the listener guessing and picking the lyrics apart. Many will be familiar with the themes and sentiments Like Poison expresses. Recrimination and heartache are common themes yet the London duo portrays these ideals in new light and with fresh vigour. Original and ambitious you have a track that is sure to be a staple of club dancefloors and radio playlists. Not an atypical sound of Them & Us- their latest E.P. has several tracks as memorable- and prove how consistent and stunning they are. With Carmine’s voice and writing as scintillating and gripping as always, and you have a lead voice that has few equals. Mixing in everything from ‘90s Pop sounds and modern-day Electronica; here is a vocalist that is always a pleasure to here. Making Like Poison a delirious and additive treat; you cannot ignore the passion put into the performance. Those beats and production values make sure the song is endlessly captivating and emotive. Michael leads from the back and provides the song’s heartbeat and blood-rush. Together the duo elicits a musical storm that demonstrates just how serious and magical they are. One of this year’s most rapturous and enlivened numbers; ensure you do not pass it by.
A duo that is synonymous with grand, epic and sweeping sounds; you cannot deny the importance and talent of Them & Us. When I heard their Chapter I’ E.P., I was amazed by the confidence and consistency it promoted. I had never heard anything like it- and haven’t to this point- and was blown away by the range of sounds and ideas they packed in. Not compromising identity and originality, what the E.P. provided was a glimpse into a stunning act. It would have been hard to follow that E.P. but Them & Us have surpassed their previous effort. The initial confidence and sound is all in place; the duo sound even more scintillating and inventive on Chapter II: The Great Escape. Carmine’s vocals are at their most soulful and beautiful- climbing to ecstatic heights when needed- and Michael’s production is at its very best. His bass and Beatbox elements seem more in the fore- a Beatbox version of the album will be released this week- and the duo seem at their most solid and impassioned. The kinship and understanding between Carmine and Michael results in an E.P. that bursts with life and energy. From the Spoken Word-driven opener The Valentinian– where it’s “hard to play hero looking up at Ground Zero”- and you have an instant smash. Michael lets his voice bustle and hustle for attention. Projecting images of undeserving Gods and mere mortals; strife and modern-day anxieties and woes. Oh My God features a pounding beat and mutating composition that supports a stunning lead vocal. Carmine delivers one of her most urgent and memorable leads to date over a song that looks at broken love and heartache. Speaking to the song’s hero, there is a space and gap left (in our heroine’s life). Dealing with separation and soul-break and you have a song that is among the most relatable and accessible the duo has created. The composition is a primal and pounding beast that perfectly soundtracks the song’s intentions. One Day allows Carmine to let her voice soothe and entrance. The vocals tangle and entwine; they build and multitrack to create something dizzying and head-spinning. A fizzing and explosive club-bound smash, the song pulls in every critical acclaim and expectation. It is a song that makes you want to dance; a rave-up smash that mixes cinematic and hard with something beautiful. Similarly, the song mixes the explosive vocals of Nero with the serene and soothe of Lana Del Rey. One of the E.P.’s highlights, it is a track that could garner a lot of radio play. The bonus track Safe Place melts scuffling and riffled beats in with hurricane electronics and a commanding lead vocal. Our heroine wants to be lead to her safe place and find some sanctuary. The composition is the busiest and most insistent on record and never relents its charge and energy. The entire E.P. showcases how talented and diverse Them & Us are.
I opened the review by assessing duos, range and Electronic music. When you think of those subjects you get a mix of ideas and opinions. I am sure there are a lot of great under-the-radar solo acts and bands- among the mass of rather indeterminate quality- but for my money, it is the duos that are providing the best long-term investment. Seemingly entranced in each other’s company- the friendships and relationships between the leads enforce some stunning music- and you have sounds that are natural and assured. Some duos do lack original bite, yet on the whole it seems, there are some terrifically new and wonderful examples coming through. On December 12th the duo play the Electric Ballroom in London. It will be a chance for the crowds to hear the new E.P. in the flesh and in the live setting. Them & Us provide cinematic and theatric visuals in their shows and put on quite an epic performance. It will be wonderful to see the new songs performed and fleshed-out on stage- and curious to see what visuals and scenery is used- and everyone should go and see the duo. London is producing some of music’s most important and mesmeric duos- and the most wide-ranging too- so it is not surprising Them & Us are being talked about in fond terms. Their previous E.P. was celebrated and heralded by critics for its originality and wonderfully assured songs. Now that Chapter II: The Great Escape has arrived we have another chapter from the London two-some. Even stronger and more electric than their previous outing it suggests a very prosperous charge and future. It will be fascinating to see what 2016 provides- whether they decide to produce an album perhaps? – and plenty of live dates will be forthcoming. On that note, I would love to see the duo travel the world and take their music to international faces. The demand will surely be out there- from Australia to the U.S. – and their sound translates to all countries and audiences. I can guarantee their will be U.S. crowds that would snap them up- having spoken with U.S. bands and promoters- and the same has to be said of Europe and Australia. Whether financial constraints will dictate their movements have yet to be seen but it would be great to see them travel the globe. Before I sign-off this review, it is worth mentioning Electronic music and its potential to cross genre borders and transcend boundaries. At the moment the genre has some exposure in the mainstream yet is synonymous with club music and late-night raves. Listeners and readers will have expectations of D.J. sets and sweaty clubs; Ibiza raves and something quite cliché. What Them & Us show is how versatile and accessible Electronic/Electronica can be. Mixing in Pop and Soul shades into the blend and you have a sound that is hugely memorable and palatable. The duo ensures that emotion and quality goes into every note- rather than the aimless smash-and-grab of their peers- and for that reason they can affect a change in expectations and fan-base. With so few new acts coming out of the blocks with such a degree of potential and originality, we should all ensure Them & Us are supported and promoted. As I revisit Chapter II: The Great Escape, let’s hope the following year sees Carmine and Michael continuing their charge and plight. Perhaps London’s most spectacular and epic duo, ensure you check them out…
AND watch a young duo with many years ahead of them. - musicmusingsandsuch
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfcqhatfEx4 - Most Addictive/ MA Music
Them&Us and RuN RiOT come to us today with an old school banger with a new school flair. Them&Us is a new project featuring Basement Jaxx singer Ami Carmine and renowned beatboxer Killa Kela, so you can imagine the type of sound that they’d put forth. Remixing the track “Happy Never After,” Run Riot channels their own inner Prodigy and Chemical Brothers for a phenomenal modern take on the breaks sound.
Incorporating brilliant vocals and sounds from the original, the remix fights onward with increasing ferocity, toeing the line between drum & bass and techno, just the way I think we’d all have it.
Check it out below. - Matthew Meadow
Them & Us pits the rough with the smooth, the sweet with the sour.
A partnership between Ami Carmine - a renowned vocalist, best recognised for her work with Basement Jaxx - and beat boxer Killa Kela, the pair make explosive, entrancing pop music.
New cut 'Happy Never After' is already a hit with fans, and RuN RiOT has stepped in on remix duties.
Propulsive, bass-saturated fare, you can dive in below. - ROBIN MURRAY
“Sleep Talk” finds Them&Us breaking into new territories, from the crushingly primitive to the technically transcendent. Their metallic riffs and blistering harmonies howl within a framework consistent with their trademark discordant and experimental approach to full throttle pop-core. Musically, the track swells with synths and brooding bass to moments of haunting celebration where euphoric vocals sound off over crisp kicks and distorted snares.
Not to shift into post overdrive, but if you’ll be in the Camden/London area tomorrow (7/25), Them&Us will be performing live at Proud. To get a sneak peek at what’s in store for gig goers (and to to preview another new song, “Lost Our Heads”), click below to watch the duo come into prominence in fluorescent fashion at the infamous The Water Rats.
“This is a big deal for us. Them&Us is our baby, and it’s been a real labour of love bringing to fruition our 10+ tracks over these past 9 months (since the release of ‘Happy Never after’). To finally bring these 2 new songs into the world is a landmark we’re massively proud of. Welcome to the start of our Twisted Fairytale… Our Bombastic Game Of Thrones & Vocal Hydraulic landscape!” – Them&Us - KickKickSnare Blog (USA)
Ami Carmine is a singer, producer and DJ who from the age of 16 was already a session singer for the likes of Gary Barlow and Eliot Kennedy, before touring as leading vocalist with Basement Jaxx and working with KT Tunstall.
Lee Potter, aka Killa Kela, is as Pharrell Williams once stated, “one of the finest multivocalists and beatboxers on the planet.” He has been sharing stages alongside Busta Rhymes, Prince, N*E*R*D and opened the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury in 2010.
Ami may come from Venus and Lee from Mars but together as a band they find a common ground where their identities create a bittersweet recipe made of ethereal vocals and sharp beats, produced by James Rushent (The Prodigy). We catch up with the duo to peak inside the twisted fairytale world of Them & Us. - HUNGER TV (Marco Pantella)
It’s THEM&US here to shout sweet everythings in your ear. If you’re unfamil, THEM&US is the new music project of vocalist/front-girl Ami Carmine, and multivocalist/beatboxer Lee aka Killa Kela. The duo have been secretly calving away in the shadows over the past few months, forging new sounds in the deepest Berkshire countryside alongside producer James Rushent which they are now ready to unleash into the world! And if you’re lucky enough to be in London on May 30th, you can catch them live as they’ll be supporting Kelis at Proud Camden. Show info here! - KickKickSnare Blog
To you, Them&US could be a brand new sensation in pop music that you should be on the lookout for, but to the initiated out there you probably have heard of the names Killa Kela and Ami during your own musical travels with the both clocking up an extensive amount of music experience throughout their careers respectively.
Ami Carmine is the lush, pink haired vocalist who actually provided her voice for U.K dance pioneers Basement Jaxx. Her voice is something unique which captures such greats as Kate Bush and my personal favorite comparison…Tori Amos!
Killa Kela need no introduction but for intensive purposes here is one anyway.
He is a heavyweight beatbox from West Sussex who himself has share stages with N.E.R.D, Mobb Deep, Redman and Buster Rhymes.
Funny tidbit about Killa……..he even did a route with The X Factor NZ’s own Daniel Bedingfield during a DMC contest.
Even funnier tidbit of information, he was on an episode of Nikka Costa’s web series Nikka’s Box
So what should entice you to listen to Them&US? Heavy percussion, dubstep synth lines with a melody of vocals, hooks and deserved for a title of Ear Worm goodness. Hell Im still humming their sensational track ‘Happy Ever After’ complete with video.
With an engagement supporting Kelis on the 30th of May, we got to talk to Then&US in this exclusive NZ interview. - Nerdy Frames Blog (New Zealand)
It’s been a long time coming but incredible duo Them & Us have finally bestowed upon us their debut video for new track ‘Happy Never After‘, and we have the pleasure of premiering the little blighter. Comprising of Ami Carmine & Lee Potter, better known by his alias Killa Kela, this pair have a certain something that we can’t quite put our finger on, but we bloody love them. New track ‘Happy Never After‘ features strong lyrical imagery, delivered by the bittersweet vocals of Ami, all laced over an aggressively charged track that features an underlying ethereal sound courtesy of a wind-up musical box-esque tone.The track’s accompanying video adds another depth to the track, combining dramatic scenes & floating people covered in black hoods. Bloody hell. ‘Happy Never After‘ is available to download for free from their official site.
As well as this brand new video, the guys have also released another new track entitled ‘Oh My God‘, which features a beautifully grungy and manic depressive tone, and a drop so mighty that you need to ensure a toilet is nearby. Trust me.
Them & Us will be supporting Kelis at Proud, Camden on 30th May. Check out the new video & new track ‘Oh My God‘ below. - Bang Tidy Music - Fabian Castellani
THEM&US grabbed our attention with their new track ‘Happy Never After’. It sounds like part Kate Bush and part Alicia’s Attic. Sound intriguing? Read on.
This is the first release from this duo. I like it. I’m also quite into their other new track ‘Oh My God’.
Get familiar with these two below: - Your Music Radar Blog - Graham Porter
Doesn’t a Tori Amos-esque track with a dubstep breakdown combined with a beautiful set of art-led visuals evoking a little more than just a feeling of melancholia and regret sound just about perfect? Well, imagine no more. Here is the VIN + OMI directed video for Them & Us’ latest track Oh My God. - Karl Is My Unkle Blog
Hey Folks I am back from what I considered one of the most dismal NZ Music Month celebrations in history like ever!! I mean this is why we outsource to other countries for our quest of bringing you the best new discover in the biz.
Thankfully over the past week we have been given the opportunity to discover a duo from the U.K. that are gathering a small cult following.
Enter THEM&US.
They are Beatbox extraordinaire Killa Kela and Basement Jaxx’s vocalist Ami Carmine. Both girlfriend/boyfriend and have an excellent pedigree of experience in music between the two of them
During my downtime from D Square I was cold emailed by the lovely Ami Carmine to check out THEM&US and gather our very astute opinion of them……I love this duo and its quite rare that an artist contacts Nerdy Frames directly for our opinion and we couldn’t fault THEM&US at all. This is what a proper outfit of this caliber should be sounding like. - Dani Deahl Blog (US)
London based duo (Ami Carmine & Killa Kela) Delight in seductive high -gloss, high- impact "Twisted Fairytale" numbers that (In "Like Poison") combine 80's sounds (and a vocal nod or two to Brit legend Kate Bush) with a modern M83 modern Electro -pop edge. A more intimate tune is "Oh my God" which, though elementary in tonality, remains compelling due to powerful, multi-layered production that features a dramatic dub step change up that works quite well. We appreciate this duo's subtle versatility and overall vision. - Music Connection Magazine
Discography
Chapter I : And so It Begins... (EP) - September 2015
Chapter I : And So It Begins (The Remixes) - September 2015
Chapter II : The Great Escape - November 2015
Chapter II : The Great Escape (The Beatbox Versions) - December 2015
Photos
Bio
“Equal Parts Rave and Tragedy” - Thump/Vice
“Dynamic, Dramatic, Expansive Electronically driven music. Get it in your life” - Alex Baker/Kerrang!
“Them&Us pits the rough with the smooth, the sweet with the sour. This is explosive, entrancing pop” - Clash Magazine
Comprised of Lee Michael (aka legendary beat-boxer Killa Kela) and former Basement Jaxx vocalist
Ami Carmine, electronic UK based duo Them&Us have been described as a 'Game Of Tones' which, with their highly distinctive style,
perfectly encapsulates their capacity to blend the ethereal, beautiful and melodic, with heavy beats, soaring
synths and rumbling bass.
Already described as ‘Massive’ and ‘Epic’ by UK radio heavy-hitters Alex Baker and Eddy Temple Morris,
Them&Us have also picked up major radio support Stateside from the likes of KROQ and KCRW, and more
recently winning award for Best International Act at the Toronto Independent Music Awards 2015.
With their debut Ep released in late 2015 Chapter I : And So It Begins... and not ones to rest on their laurels, Them&Us also released their second EP offering, Chapter II: The Great Escape in November followed by a complete "Beatbox Re-imaginaton' -
Chapter II: The Beatbox Versions in December.
After recently finishing up shows with KROQ in Los Angeles, and a November UK wide tour supporting band
The Red Paintings, 2015 culminated with Them&Us’ London show on the 12th December supporting electro pioneers
Does It Offend You Yeah?
Band Members
Links