Sakkura Shares Her Passion for Drum and Bass with an Exclusive Live Band Set
Hailing from Brighton, the talented drum and bass DJ and producer Sakkura is making significant strides both locally and internationally. Currently touring with her live band, she is celebrating the recent launch of her debut album, Astral, released earlier this month. However, the depth of her journey goes far beyond this accomplishment.
Growing up in Brighton, Sakkura was enveloped in the UK’s vibrant electronic music scene from an early age. Before developing her fascination with contemporary drum and bass, she first experienced its origins: Jungle music.
“It was an enchanting experience. I first encountered jungle when my older sister played it in her car. It felt surreal, like something beyond my reality that I yearned to be a part of,” she reflected on her early memories. “My friend o.C.Breaks, the drummer for Sakkura Live, was diving into the same sounds at that time, which ignited our shared jungle journey that has continued ever since. It was an exhilarating time, like we were listening to what the future sounded like.”
As they formed a live band, Sakkura and o.C.Breaks began learning to mix on turntables, organically advancing into live jungle and drum and bass. This genre resonated with them, reflecting their shared passion cultivated through years of listening together.
[Drum & Bass] is essential for me; it’s as if I need it. I’ve explored various music styles, but I continually return to DnB as though it’s a calling. Its versatility feels like home for my creativity. It’s also personal, having brought together a wonderful community to collaborate with—I’m truly fortunate.
Sakkura
Because drum and bass is one of the few electronic genres performed live, it adds a special touch to Sakkura’s shows. “Live music holds a unique significance,” she noted, “especially dance music executed well. The visual aspect of having live drums fits seamlessly with drum and bass.”
Live drum and bass performances are still quite rare, which adds an exhilarating element.
Sakkura
Speaking of her live performances, Sakkura expressed how enjoyable it is to collaborate with o.C.Breaks and her band. “We never repeat the same performance, and the ability to feed off one another is exhilarating. I’m always surprised at how (o.C.Breaks) adapts to my spontaneous changes; it should be disruptive, yet he remains unfazed. We also have three fantastic vocalists: Riva & Dee Freer, who provide vocals, and Miss Melody as the MC—each brings a distinct sound to our music.”
As a product of one of the cities that pioneered drum and bass, this genre is profoundly significant to Sakkura. “Brighton indeed feels like a drum and bass city; it might not be big, but there’s never a shortage of events each weekend,” she shared. “Whenever I’m at the beach or in the park, I always hear DNB playing from Bluetooth speakers—it truly permeates the atmosphere! I love it; it creates such an incredible vibe.”
When asked about her ideal night out in Brighton, Sakkura enthusiastically suggested bar-hopping throughout the city. “For drinks, we’d wander without a set destination, exploring different places. I enjoy that aspect of Brighton; we have so many options.” For dining, she recommended a Mexican street food spot called La Choza. “For clubbing, The Volks is a must—great atmosphere, friendly staff, top-notch sound system, and it’s right on the beach!”
We were fortunate to receive an exclusive preview of one of Sakkura’s recent live performances as part of our This Is Home series. This recording features exciting tracks from their latest album, Astral, alongside their remix of Ed-Rush & Optical’s “Alien Girl” and a plethora of unreleased music, so make sure to hit play for an extraordinary drum and bass experience.
Stream This Is Home 099 || Sakkura [Brighton] on SoundCloud:
