Shock One is an electronic drum and bass act formed by Karl Thomas and Jay Burns, who begin by drawing on a traditionally trained musical background and on influences including Bad Company, Konflict and Ed Rush & Optical. The pair are based in Australia and start out while playing in a metal band alongside members of Pendulum, before moving into drum and bass production.

Early releases and recognition

Shock One first gains wider attention when the track “Silverscreen” is played at a Pendulum return show. The tune is then taken up by DJ Friction for his Shogun Audio label, alongside “Dropping Science”, and the release attracts support from Friction, Andy C and Hype. Their follow-up, “It’s On”, uses live guitars and presents a more overtly musical side to the duo.

Style and releases

The act works across drum and bass and liquid funk, with a sound that combines electronic production with live instrumentation. “Let Me Go”, released on the New York label Incite Recordings, becomes one of their best-known tracks and is described as a crowd favourite. A vocal VIP version is also mentioned, bringing house-style vocals into the drum and bass context.

DJ work and live reputation

As DJs, Shock One builds a reputation for energetic sets that keep a strong musical element while maintaining high intensity. The duo plays alongside artists including Andy C, DJ Fresh, Pendulum and DJ Friction, and their performances are noted for prompting a strong physical reaction from crowds.

Later activity

The act is linked with planned releases on Frequency Recordings and Viper Recordings, and with work on a full-length album.