X-Press 2

X-Press 2, comprised of DJ Diesel (Darren House) and DJ Rocky (Darren Rock), formed in 1993 in London. The duo initially included Ashley Beedle, who departed in 2009 to pursue solo projects. Their early releases on Junior Boys Own Records, such as “Muzik Express” and “London Xpress,” established their presence in the underground club scene. These tracks, characterized by a distinctive sound, gained significant traction among DJs and clubgoers globally.

The group reached wider recognition in 1996 when their debut U.S. single, “The Sound,” topped the Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart. Their 2001 album, “Muzikizum,” further expanded their influence with tracks like “Smoke Machine,” which reached number 31 on the U.S. dance chart. The album also featured “Lazy,” a collaboration with David Byrne of Talking Heads, which became a significant commercial success. “Lazy” peaked at number one on the U.S. dance chart, number two on the UK Singles Chart in 2002, and earned them an Ivor Novello award in 2003.

Continuing their career, X-Press 2 released “Makeshift Feelgood” in 2006, featuring collaborations with artists such as Tim DeLaughter and Kurt Wagner. In 2013, their track “Kill 100 (Carl Craig re-mix)” was utilized by Raf Simons for his debut Spring/Summer 2013 show for Dior, showcasing their music’s crossover appeal. X-Press 2 is currently signed to Skint Records, a BMG company, and remains active in the electronic music landscape.