DJ Die: Drum and Bass Biography, Releases and Upcoming Events

DJ Die, born Daniel Robert Kausman on 13 October 1972 in Barnstaple, Devon, is a pioneering figure in the drum and bass scene. Relocating to Bristol in the mid-1980s, he became deeply immersed in the city's burgeoning music culture, collaborating with Jody Wisternoff under the aliases Tru Funk and Sub Love. Their early productions, including 4am, became staples of the hardcore and breakbeat era.

In 1992, DJ Die's encounter with Roni Size at Bristol's Replay Records sparked a partnership that would define his career. Their first collaboration, Agility, marked the beginning of a fruitful relationship with V Recordings. Together, they co-founded Full Cycle Recordings, a label that would become central to the evolution of drum and bass throughout the 1990s.

As a core member of Roni Size & Reprazent, DJ Die played an instrumental role in the creation of the groundbreaking album New Forms, which went on to win the Mercury Prize in 1997. He was also a key figure in the project Breakbeat Era alongside Roni Size and vocalist Leonie Laws, demonstrating his versatility as both a producer and collaborator. Tracks like his remix of Watching Windows further highlighted his unique approach to sound design.

Beyond collaborations, DJ Die has released music under his own name and various aliases, including Break & Die, Die & Clipz, and DieMantle. He also established his own label, Clear Skyz, providing a platform for forward-thinking drum and bass talent. Known for his dynamic DJ sets and pioneering productions, DJ Die remains a respected figure whose contributions continue to inspire both fans and artists within the drum and bass community.