Keys N Krates

The music of Keys N Krates seems as though it could be lumped in with other budding EDM artists such as AVICII, Skrillex and Bassnectar and on certain sonic and stylistic levels this seems to make sense; however unlike this newer generation of musicians caught up in the dubstep movement, this group still holds some of the conventions of old school hip-hop and electronic music.
This particularly shines through in their live performances. The trio does implement modern equipment in their sounds such as up to date Akai samplers and controllers, but they also play a great majority of their music live. This is always exciting to see considering how infrequent it is to come by now days amongst electronic artists. The band is a trio consisting of turntablist Jr. Flo, drummer Adam Tune and Keyboardist David Matisse. Tune takes advantage of both electronic and acoustic sources and plays in close synchronization to the unpredictable ebbs and flows of Jr. Flows leads. Jr. Flow actually takes his samples from vinyl records rather than the more common practice of using sources from the computer. Matisse’s keyboard contributions provide a needed steady pulse on which everything rests, however there are instances where he delves into spontaneous melodies. The group has adapted to the modern trends in electronic music. You will hear high frequency vocal glitches, subatomic bass drops and disjointed rhythms. Their sound has blown people away at large festivals like the Mad Decent Block Party and has made lasting impressions at events such as the SXSW showcases. Their mixture of traditional and modern electronica has not only caught the attention of clubbers and party mongers, but it has also sparked interest in those who have been fascinated by the art of older electronic techniques.

Keys N Krates is an electronic group consisting of members Adam Tune (drums), David Matisse (synthesizer/keyboards) and Jr. Flo (turntablist). Despite hailing from Tornoto, Canada, there is something distinctively British in feeling and style about this band. Perhaps that is what drew me to their music in the first place. They are fresh, but with an awesome old school twist. Their style is far from the dubstep or electronic musicians that seem to be dominating the tracks at the moment: they couldn’t be further from the likes of Avicii or Skrillex. The hip hop element to their electronica gives the trio a distinct edge and, despite not yet hitting mainstream success out of the States, I believe that this band has a lot of potential and deserves way more recognition than currently receiving. Tracks such as ‘Treat Me Right’ and ‘Dum Dee Dum’ are insanely catchy and perfect for summer festivals. Their music is perfect live, as it has the whole crowd dancing and pumped with energy. Their music is loud, enthusiastic and energising: they were made to be head live.

I was warned that they were different in concert than they are on their albums but could never have guessed how different they were going to be. I love their music and this was my first time seeing them live. Their live set was heavily laced with far to much bass and they did the build-up/drop thing way to many times. There was never more than 20 seconds of any song that could be danced too because they were either building-up and dropping or poorly transitioning into the next song.

This was a show for other DJ's, not a show for the audience. I still like their stuff but I don't think I'll ever see them live again.

This was my second time seeing Keys N Krate, my first being at a 10k+ person festival. I really enjoyed and respected their decision to do smaller venues this tour - the result was an incredibly intimate, personal, and fun show. Their interaction not only with the crowd but each other is what makes this 3-piece unique and stellar to watch. Completely enjoy the vibe, the music, and the talent - 10/10 will see again.

Really talented performers. Only thing I wanted was it to last longer.

Their Cura Album was astounding in person and the trio seriously knew how to keep the crowd going (weaving reworks of their classics).

Considering the sound, the lighting, their composure on stage, and mad keytar skills, I would go again.

Good set, saw them at Pemberton last, always good energy, skipped the opener as they didn't sound very good. Odd choice to have r&b and punk for a bass and drum/hip hop artist. Also the set was only 75 minutes long, started at midnight and ended at 1:15

Bit short for the price paid

These guys were great, just as expected. Live drumming and lots of launchpad/keyboard solos made each track (espacially the drops) unique and intensive. Hope they will be back in Dresden soon. Their concerts are definitely worth a visit.

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The show and atmosphere was crazy!!! Good vibes, crazy drops, packed house, the energy was positive and everyone was rushing towards the front to see KeysNKrates rock tf out. I loved every second.

Dope show! Just wish it lasted longer.

Energy was great by them and the crowd. Jr. Flo was on fire...dude is insane.

Definitely will be catching them when they role through London again.