The Chemical Brothers are a British electronic music duo consisting of Tom Rowlands and Ed Simons, who have been producing music together since 1989. Over the past three decades, they have become one of the most influential and successful electronic music acts in the world, releasing a string of critically acclaimed albums and hit singles. Their music is known for its high-energy beats, psychedelic soundscapes, and innovative use of samples, which has helped to redefine the sound of electronic music.
In this list, we’ll be taking a look at their 10 best songs of all time, including some of their biggest hits and most iconic tracks. From the classic dancefloor anthems to the more experimental and avant-garde pieces, these songs showcase the full range of The Chemical Brothers’ talents and musical vision.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their music, this list is sure to provide an exciting and engaging journey through their discography. So, let’s get ready to block rockin’ beats and explore the best of The Chemical Brothers!
1. Block Rockin’ Beats
“Block Rockin’ Beats” is a high-energy and influential track by the English electronic duo, The Chemical Brothers. The song features a prominent sample from the song “Gucci Again” by the funk group Schoolly D, and combines elements of breakbeat, techno, and big beat to create a driving and intense sound. The track features distorted guitar riffs and a hypnotic vocal sample that repeats the phrase “Back with another one of those block rockin’ beats,” which adds to the song’s energetic and catchy nature.
2. Hey Boy Hey Girl
“Hey Boy Hey Girl” is a dance classic from the Chemical Brothers’ 1999 album “Surrender”. The song features a distinctive sample of a child’s voice repeating the title phrase, layered over a pounding beat and hypnotic electronic melody. The track builds up to a euphoric climax, with additional samples and synth layers adding to the energy. “Hey Boy Hey Girl” became an instant hit upon its release, with its infectious rhythm and catchy vocal sample making it a favorite on dance floors around the world.
3. Galvanize
“Galvanize” is a popular track by the Chemical Brothers, released in 2005 as the lead single from their album “Push the Button”. The song features a prominent sample from a 1971 track by rapper Q-Tip, and it is known for its driving beats and infectious energy. The lyrics, which speak to the power of music and its ability to bring people together, are delivered by Q-Tip with a confident and commanding flow. The song’s combination of hip-hop and electronic elements has made it a dance floor favorite and a classic of the big beat genre.
4. Setting Sun
“Setting Sun” is a popular song by the Chemical Brothers featuring Noel Gallagher on vocals. The song is known for its distinct electronic sound with psychedelic rock influences. The opening riff is sampled from “My White Bicycle” by Tomorrow, and the track features a prominent drum loop from “Get Up and Dance” by Freedom. The lyrics are somewhat abstract, with Gallagher’s vocals often distorted and layered over each other. “Setting Sun” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart in 1996 and solidifying the Chemical Brothers as one of the leading electronic music acts of the time.
5. Star Guitar
Star Guitar” is a classic track by the Chemical Brothers that is characterized by its driving beat and mesmerizing melody. The song builds slowly, adding layer upon layer of electronic sounds, until it reaches a crescendo that is impossible not to dance to. The repetitive nature of the music makes it perfect for getting lost in the rhythm, and the use of guitar samples gives the song a unique, almost psychedelic feel.
6. Go
“Go” is a 2015 single released by The Chemical Brothers featuring the vocals of Q-Tip from A Tribe Called Quest. The song has a driving beat and a pulsating bassline that builds throughout the track, creating an intense and energetic atmosphere. Q-Tip’s vocals provide a catchy and memorable hook, with lyrics that encourage listeners to embrace their individuality and let go of their inhibitions. The song’s video, directed by Michel Gondry, features a series of interlocking visual narratives that match the song’s frenetic energy, making “Go” a thrilling and unforgettable listening experience.
7. Leave Home
“Leave Home” is an energetic and pulsating track by The Chemical Brothers, released on their 1995 debut album “Exit Planet Dust”. The song starts with a hypnotic vocal sample before exploding into a frenzied combination of distorted beats, pounding basslines, and screeching synths. It’s an intense and exhilarating ride that perfectly showcases the duo’s signature sound of fusing elements of electronic, rock, and hip-hop into a unique and innovative style.
8. The Private Psychedelic Reel
“The Private Psychedelic Reel” is a trippy and experimental track by the Chemical Brothers. It features a fusion of various electronic sounds and psychedelic elements that transport the listener on a surreal journey. The song is characterized by a slow and steady beat that builds up to a climactic finish, with eerie synths, distorted guitars, and echoing vocal samples creating a hypnotic atmosphere. The track showcases the Chemical Brothers’ talent for creating innovative and genre-defying electronic music, and it remains a fan favorite for its unique sound and otherworldly vibe.
9. Elektrobank
“Elektrobank” is a dynamic and energetic track by the Chemical Brothers, released in 1997 on their album “Dig Your Own Hole”. The song features driving beats and a groovy bassline, layered with distorted synths and vocal samples that create an intense and psychedelic atmosphere. The track builds up to an explosive climax, featuring a guitar solo by the former Oasis member, Noel Gallagher.
10. Out of Control
“Out of Control” is a single by The Chemical Brothers featuring Bernard Sumner of New Order on vocals. Released in 1999, the track was part of the album “Surrender” and became one of their most popular songs. The track features a driving beat and Sumner’s melancholic vocals with lyrics about losing control, creating a perfect blend of dance and alternative rock. The music video for the song, directed by Dom and Nic, features a night out in a city with the lyrics appearing on buildings and streets.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
