Aphrodite is the performance name of UK drum and bass producer Gavin King, who also uses the names A Zone and DJ Aphro. He works in jungle and drum and bass and is associated with the development of jump-up, a style of drum and bass built around dancefloor energy and heavy bass.

Career

Aphrodite is one of the longer-established figures in drum and bass and is credited with helping shape the scene’s later styles and production techniques. He works as a DJ and producer, and his solo releases bring him wider recognition in the late 1990s, including a UK Top 20 placing in 1998.

Labels and releases

He runs Aphrodite Recordings, a label named after a club he starts in 1988. He also works with Micky Finn on the Urban Takeover label, and together they release a number of dancefloor-focused tracks that become well known in the scene.

His debut album is a self-titled release on V2 Recordings. A follow-up album, Aftershock, also appears on V2 Recordings and features guest artists including Barrington Levy and Wildflower.

Style and impact

Aphrodite is identified with UK jungle and drum and bass, with particular emphasis on jump-up. His work is described as influential within the genre’s development and as part of the music’s shift toward heavier, bass-led club tracks.