DJ to Watch: Thelem

Thelem is a London-based DJ and producer known for his genre-bending style of production. Placing him in the category of “dubstep” is actually doing a disservice to an artist with as much talent and versatility as Thelem possesses. For this week’s DJ to Watch, let’s get to know Thelem a little bit better.

He’s been active for nearly a decade, exploring every sub-genre of bass music he can get his hands on. His discography to date covers everything from UK grime, to Trap, to Future Bass and often finds itself in the 140-160 bpm range, which usually characterizes drum and bass. Reminiscent of pre-2011 dubstep, Thelem’s sound focuses more on movement through the build-up rather than the “drop.” Rejecting most of the popular trends present in bass music today, Thelem marches to the beat of his own drum.

Off his 2014 EP of the same name, “Haunted Harmonics” is a perfect example of Thelem’s style or lack thereof. Here he incorporates creative elements throughout the long and drawn-out buildup which never really leads into a drop –  Thelem’s refusal to succumb to the status quo.

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His 2017 “Mysteriez” is in the same vein, taking listeners on a journey through peaks and valleys as they try to anticipate what might come next.

Thelem is now living in the U.S. pursuing his dream of music full-time. He’s currently supporting Minnesota on his Exit / Reality Tour. Be sure to catch them both when they stop at Crescent Ballroom in Phoenix on February 20th. Grab tickets here!

Connect with Thelem: Facebook | Twitter | SoundCloud