Chaos in the CBD

Chaos in the CBD

Chaos in the CBD are a deep house group made up of brothers Ben Helliker-Hales and Louis Helliker-Hales. They originate from Auckland, New Zealand, and are now based in London. The pair are associated with the label In Dust We Trust.

Background

The brothers grow up in Auckland and are shaped by a music-loving family. Their parents introduce them to bands including The Cure and Joy Division, and the pair later turn their family back towards house music and artists such as John Tejada. Louis has an early change of direction from rock to house after attending a rave in Melbourne, and Ben, also known as Beans, develops his electronic music ideas on Fruity Loops, moving towards Chicago house.

Career development

Chaos in the CBD build their sound while watching Auckland DJs and producers including Soane, Dick Johnson, Bevan Keys and Greg Churchill, imagining themselves performing in similar settings. They later receive guidance from Detroit-born Recloose during his time in Auckland. After moving to Peckham in London, they meet Bradley Zero on a train soon after arriving and connect with the Rhythm Section circle and its parties. That connection leads to the release of their breakthrough EP, Midnight in Peckham.

Style and influences

The duo’s music sits within deep house, with references in their story to Chicago house, Detroit influence and the Peckham dance community. Their family background, Auckland roots and London connections all remain part of their identity as an act.