DELS

DELS is the hip-hop pseudonym of Kieren Dickins, a British artist whose work draws on hip-hop, grime, electro and garage influences. As a teenager, he is part of a two-step garage band, and he later develops a style shaped by syncopated drum patterns, bass-heavy production, keys and occasional steel pan.

Background and style

Dickins is discovered at the age of 16 by John Peel. He continues making music while studying graphic design and illustration, and his work combines his rap delivery with production associated with UK electronic music. Joe Goddard of Hot Chip is a long-standing creative partner.

Releases and collaborations

He appears prominently on the Kwesachu mixtape by Micachu and Kwes. His debut album is set for release on Big Dada and Ninja Tune, the labels associated with his genre-crossing approach.

Live activity

DELS performs on a European tour with Yo! Majesty and appears at festivals including Glastonbury, Transmusicales and Big Chill.