Mako, also known as Stephen Mako, is a Bristol-based drum and bass producer, DJ and the driving force behind Utopia Music. Active since the mid-2000s, he has developed a reputation for deep, atmospheric drum and bass built around warm sub-bass pressure, intricate drum programming and a strong connection to the foundations of jungle.
His productions balance precision engineering with a natural sense of movement, often combining rolling rhythms, detailed percussion and understated musicality. Rather than leaning on standard presets, Mako is known for recording and shaping his own percussion elements, giving his music a distinctive texture across both his solo work and the wider Utopia Music catalogue.
Across the years he has released music on some of the scene's most respected imprints, including Metalheadz, Dispatch Recordings, Symmetry Recordings and Soul:R. His debut solo album Oeuvre arrived on Metalheadz in 2020, while the later album Death of a Romantic further explored the atmospheric, reflective side of his sound.
Mako has also built a strong catalogue of collaborative work, regularly working alongside artists including DLR, Break, Hydro and Andy Skopes. His partnership with DLR led to the formation of OneMind, a project that further showcased their shared appreciation for detailed, forward-thinking drum and bass.
Whether through solo productions, collaborations or his work developing Utopia Music, Mako remains closely associated with a strain of drum and bass that values craftsmanship, depth and longevity over short-lived trends. His catalogue continues to resonate with listeners drawn to rich atmosphere, carefully constructed groove and the enduring influence of classic jungle foundations.
