Coming out in 2015, Born in the Echoes was a triumphant return for the duo, arriving five years after their previous studio album. It feels like a celebration of everything they do best, modernising their sound while staying true to the “big beat” roots that made them famous in the nineties. It’s a record that feels incredibly cohesive, pulling together a wide range of guest vocalists into a single, psychedelic journey.

The sound is a brilliant mix of heavy, propulsive dance tracks and more melodic, trippy moments. It’s got that classic Chemical Brothers crunch – thick basslines, swirling sirens, and rhythms that feel like they’re designed to move a festival crowd. However, there’s also a real sense of craftsmanship in the songwriting. It isn’t just a collection of club tracks; it feels like a proper album with its own internal logic and flow.

“Go”, featuring Q-Tip, is a total standout – a high-energy, funky track that’s impossible to ignore. On the other end of the spectrum, “Wide open” with Beck provides a beautiful, shimmering finale that’s much more soulful and atmospheric. The album is full of these contrasts, moving from the aggressive energy of “I’ll see you there” to the more experimental, dreamy textures of the title track.

It’s an album that’s still worth revisiting because it shows how electronic music can have real staying power. It doesn’t rely on gimmicks or fleeting trends; it relies on great grooves and a deep understanding of how to build tension and release. It’s a fantastic record for a long drive or a workout – something that keeps your energy up and your mind engaged. It’s a late-career highlight that proves these guys are still masters of their craft.