The Sabres of Paradise were a legendary British electronic music group that emerged from the underground club scene of the early 1990s. Formed in 1992 by Andrew Weatherall, Gary Burns, and Jagz Kooner, the Sabres of Paradise quickly gained a reputation for their innovative sound, which fused elements of techno, house, and dub reggae. Over the course of their career, the Sabres of Paradise released four critically acclaimed albums and a number of classic singles and remixes.
In this article, we will take a look at the 10 best Sabres of Paradise songs of all time. From their early releases on the iconic Warp Records label to their later work on Weatherall’s own Sabrettes imprint, the Sabres of Paradise left an indelible mark on the electronic music landscape. We will explore their groundbreaking sound and highlight some of their most memorable tracks, from the dub-infused rhythms of “Wilmot” to the shimmering techno of “Smokebelch II.” Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the Sabres of Paradise’s music, this list is sure to provide a fascinating glimpse into the legacy of one of the most innovative and influential electronic acts of the 1990s.
1. Smokebelch II
“Smokebelch II” by Sabres of Paradise is a classic electronic dance track that was first released in 1993. The song starts with a slow, ambient intro that gradually builds into a hypnotic rhythm with a strong bassline, pulsating beats, and dreamy, ethereal melodies. The track has a distinct, otherworldly sound that transports listeners to a different dimension and creates a sense of euphoria and tranquility. “Smokebelch II” has been widely acclaimed as one of the most influential and iconic electronic dance tracks of all time, and its timeless appeal has made it a staple in clubs, festivals, and chillout rooms around the world. With its lush textures, mesmerizing rhythms, and ethereal atmospheres, “Smokebelch II” is a true masterpiece of electronic music that continues to inspire and captivate listeners to this day.
2. Theme
“Theme” by Sabres of Paradise is an instrumental track that was first released in 1994. The song has a slow, deliberate pace and a minimalist approach to production, with sparse beats, moody synths, and haunting melodies. Despite its simplicity, “Theme” has a deep and immersive quality that draws listeners into its introspective world. The track has been praised for its ability to create a sense of introspection and reflection, as well as its use of negative space and subtle shifts in tone and texture to create an ever-evolving soundscape. “Theme” is a prime example of Sabres of Paradise’s unique approach to electronic music, which fuses elements of ambient, techno, and experimental music to create a sound that is both timeless and groundbreaking. With its haunting melodies and immersive soundscapes, “Theme” remains a classic of electronic music that continues to inspire and captivate listeners to this day.
3. Smokebelch I
“Smokebelch I” is a classic electronic dance track by the British group Sabres of Paradise. Released in 1993, the song features a hypnotic beat and a dreamy, atmospheric quality that makes it perfect for late-night clubbing or relaxation. The track is built around a sample of the guitar riff from “Ashes to Ashes” by David Bowie, which is transformed into a swirling, ambient backdrop for the pulsing bassline and percussion. The song’s title refers to the sensation of smoke inhalation, and the music itself seems to capture the hazy, disorienting feeling of being lost in a cloud of smoke. With its innovative use of sampling and its ability to create a mood of otherworldly beauty, “Smokebelch I” remains a beloved classic of the electronic dance genre.
4. Wilmot
“Wilmot” is a pulsing, hypnotic track by the British electronic group Sabres of Paradise. Released in 1994, the song features a driving, insistent beat and a repetitive, almost trance-like melody. The track is built around a sample from “Soul Makossa” by the Cameroonian saxophonist Manu Dibango, which is transformed into a propulsive, percussive rhythm that builds in intensity as the song progresses. The title “Wilmot” refers to the Jamaican dub producer King Tubby, who used the name “Wilmot” as a pseudonym on some of his early recordings. The song’s combination of African rhythms, Jamaican dub influences, and British electronic production techniques creates a unique and powerful sound that has earned it a place as a classic of the electronic dance genre. With its infectious energy and innovative use of sampling, “Wilmot” remains a beloved favorite among electronic music fans.
5. Bubble and Slide
“Bubble and Slide” is a classic electronic dance track by the British group Sabres of Paradise. Released in 1993, the song features a groovy bassline, a driving beat, and a playful melody that makes it perfect for dancing. The track is built around a sample of the song “Pamela” by Toto, which is transformed into a funky, upbeat groove that is impossible not to move to. The title “Bubble and Slide” refers to a specific dance move that involves bouncing and sliding across the dance floor, and the song’s infectious energy and rhythm make it the perfect soundtrack for such a move. With its catchy melody and innovative use of sampling, “Bubble and Slide” remains a beloved classic of the electronic dance genre, and a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of Sabres of Paradise.
6. Still Fighting
“Still Fighting” by Sabres of Paradise is an electronic dance track that was first released in 1994. The song has a driving, energetic rhythm with a strong bassline and intricate percussion, layered with trippy synths and samples. The track features vocal samples that repeat the phrase “still fighting,” giving the song a sense of urgency and defiance. “Still Fighting” is a prime example of Sabres of Paradise’s ability to blend different genres and styles to create a unique and dynamic sound that transcends categorization. The track has been widely acclaimed for its innovative use of samples and its ability to create a sense of unity and rebellion on the dancefloor. With its pulsating beats, hypnotic grooves, and uplifting message, “Still Fighting” remains a classic of electronic dance music that continues to inspire and energize listeners to this day.
7. Lick Wid Nit Wit
Sabres of Paradise’s “Lick Wid Nit Wit” is an electronic track that seamlessly blends elements of dub, techno, and breakbeat. The song’s driving beat is propelled by a combination of pulsating basslines, skittering hi-hats, and chopped up vocal samples. Throughout the track, layers of atmospheric synths ebb and flow, creating a hypnotic and immersive sonic landscape. Despite its abstract and experimental sound, “Lick Wid Nit Wit” maintains a danceable energy that is sure to get listeners moving. Overall, this track showcases Sabres of Paradise’s ability to push the boundaries of electronic music while still delivering a powerful and engaging listening experience.
8. Tow Truck
“Tow Truck” by Sabres of Paradise is an electronic dance track that was first released in 1995. The song has a frenetic, uptempo rhythm with a fast, driving beat and a catchy, melodic hook. The track features a combination of electronic and acoustic instruments, including samples of horns and strings, that create a sense of urgency and excitement. “Tow Truck” is a prime example of Sabres of Paradise’s ability to fuse different genres and styles to create a sound that is both innovative and accessible. The track has been widely acclaimed for its high-energy and infectious vibe, making it a favorite of DJs and dancers alike. With its dynamic beats, catchy melodies, and eclectic sound, “Tow Truck” remains a classic of electronic dance music that continues to inspire and energize listeners around the world.
9. Inter-Lergen-Ten-Ko
“Inter-Lergen-Ten-Ko” by Sabres of Paradise is an experimental electronic track that was first released in 1993. The song features a collage of different samples and sounds, including distorted vocals, scratching vinyl, and glitchy electronic noises. The track has a chaotic and unpredictable quality, with elements of ambient, techno, and avant-garde music colliding and merging in unexpected ways. “Inter-Lergen-Ten-Ko” is a prime example of Sabres of Paradise’s willingness to push the boundaries of electronic music and explore new and unconventional approaches to sound and composition. The track has been praised for its innovative use of sampling and its ability to create a sense of disorientation and surrealism. With its abstract textures, dissonant melodies, and unpredictable rhythms, “Inter-Lergen-Ten-Ko” is a challenging but rewarding piece of experimental electronic music that continues to fascinate and intrigue listeners to this day.
10. Haunted Dancehall
“Haunted Dancehall” by Sabres of Paradise is an electronic dance track that was first released in 1994. The song has a moody, atmospheric quality, with haunting melodies, dub-influenced beats, and eerie vocal samples. The track features a combination of electronic and acoustic instruments, including distorted guitars and a live bass, that create a sense of tension and mystery. “Haunted Dancehall” is a prime example of Sabres of Paradise’s ability to create a unique and immersive sound that defies genre classification. The track has been widely acclaimed for its innovative use of dub techniques and its ability to evoke a sense of dread and unease. With its brooding melodies, hypnotic rhythms, and haunting atmospheres, “Haunted Dancehall” remains a classic of electronic music that continues to captivate and inspire listeners to this day.