Chase & Status
Chase & Status: The Drum & Bass Powerhouse
Chase & Status is a British electronic music production duo known for their dynamic fusion of drum & bass, dubstep, and mainstream pop sensibilities. Formed in London, the pair have achieved significant commercial success, including a UK number one album and multiple platinum certifications for their anthemic singles.
Early career
The duo, consisting of Saul Milton (Chase) and Will Kennard (Status), formed in 2003 after meeting at university in Manchester. They began releasing music on the influential drum & bass label Renegade Hardware, establishing their credentials within the underground scene with early 12" singles.
Breakthrough
Their major breakthrough arrived with their second studio album, 2011's No More Idols, which debuted at number two on the UK Albums Chart. This project featured a slew of high-profile collaborations, including hits with Tinie Tempah and Liam Bailey, catapulting Chase & Status into the mainstream spotlight and achieving platinum status.
Key tracks
End Credits - A collaboration with Plan B, this song became a defining anthem of UK club culture and a staple in their live sets.
Blind Faith - Featuring vocals from Liam Bailey, this track broke into the UK Top 5, merging soulful vocals with explosive drum & bass energy.
Let You Go - This platinum-selling single with Mali showcased their ability to craft emotionally charged, radio-friendly drum & bass.
International - A harder-edged track with Cutty Ranks, it exemplified their roots and respect for jungle and dancehall influences.
Their subsequent albums, like 2013's Brand New Machine and 2019's RTRN II JUNGLE, demonstrated their range, from chart-oriented crossovers to a celebrated return to their underground jungle origins. Their consistent evolution and powerful live performances, often with a full band, have solidified their status as one of electronic music's most enduring acts.
Fans of Chase & Status often appreciate the work of similar UK electronic acts. The innovative sounds of Pendulum share a similar rock-infused approach to drum & bass. The genre-defying productions of Rudimental also blend live elements with festival-ready anthems. For the deeper, techier side of the scene, Noisia represents pinnacle sound design, while Sub Focus offers a similarly polished and melodic take on the genre.