Darkside is an American electronic band formed in Providence, Rhode Island in 2011 by electronic musician Nicolás Jaar and multi-instrumentalist Dave Harrington, who met as students at Brown University. Based in New York City, the duo has spent over a decade crafting an expansive, genre-defying sound that merges elements of electronic music, improvisation, and experimental composition. Their approach to music-making prioritizes spontaneous creation and sonic exploration, establishing them as innovative voices within the contemporary electronic music landscape.
The band's career began with their acclaimed debut album Psychic in 2013, which introduced their signature blend of atmospheric production and live instrumentation. After a substantial hiatus, Darkside returned with Spiral in 2021, marking a significant moment in their artistic evolution. In 2022, the band expanded its core lineup to include drummer and percussionist Tlacael Esparza, solidifying a three-piece configuration. This expanded lineup was documented on Live at Spiral House, an album of improvised material recorded at their Los Angeles-based rehearsal space. Their first studio album as a trio, Nothing, was released in February 2025, demonstrating the band's continued commitment to innovation and artistic growth.
Throughout their career, Darkside has maintained a reputation as forward-thinking electronic artists unafraid to challenge conventional genre boundaries. Their work continues to resonate within experimental and electronic music circles, establishing them as key figures in contemporary instrumental music.
