Photek: Drum and Bass Biography, Releases and Upcoming Events

Photek, born Rupert Parkes in 1971 in Ipswich, Suffolk, is one of the most influential and innovative figures in drum and bass history. Emerging in the early 1990s, Photek revolutionised the genre with his minimalist, intricate production style and groundbreaking use of breakbeats. His debut album, Modus Operandi (1997), is widely regarded as a seminal work, blending atmospheric textures, razor-sharp drum programming, and cinematic precision. Tracks like Ni Ten Ichi Ryu and The Hidden Camera are celebrated for their technical mastery and haunting melodies.

Photek’s follow-up compilation, Form & Function (1998), further demonstrated his exceptional talent for blending breakbeat science with emotive soundscapes. He later expanded his reach into Hollywood, contributing music to films like Blade (1998) and composing for acclaimed TV series such as How to Get Away with Murder. His track The Hidden Camera was even featured in The Animatrix soundtrack, solidifying his impact beyond the drum and bass world.

During the 2010s, Photek embraced house and downtempo elements, releasing music on labels like !K7 and continuing his evolution as an artist. His remix work earned him three consecutive Grammy Award nominations for Best Remixed Recording from 2012 to 2014, showcasing his continued relevance in electronic music.

Beyond his production career, Photek’s legacy lies in his technical innovation and refusal to be confined by genre. He remains an enduring influence on modern producers across drum and bass, house, and cinematic scoring. With a career spanning over three decades, Photek's contributions to music remain timeless, his influence felt across generations of electronic music fans.