Bitman & Roban

Bitman & Roban (José Antonio 'Toto' Bravo and Christian Powditch) emerged from the vibrant Chilean electronic scene of the late 1990s, initially gaining notoriety for their plunderphonic approach to hip-hop. Their early work, specifically 'Hurtos' (2000) and 'Robar es Natural' (2002), established a signature style of 'theft as art,' utilizing a vast library of samples to construct playful, jazz-inflected downtempo.

By the time of their international breakthrough, 'Música para después de almuerzo' (2006), they had integrated more live instrumentation, including the bass work of Roberto 'Titae' Lindl (of Los Tres), moving toward a sophisticated nu-jazz and funk sound. They occupy a unique cultural position as bridge-builders between the Latin alternative world and the global trip-hop/downtempo movement. Their influence is felt in the way they localized the 'Mo' Wax' or 'Ninja Tune' aesthetic, infusing it with South American rhythmic sensibilities and a distinct sense of humor. Critically, they are lauded for their production transparency and their ability to collaborate with heavyweights like Anita Tijoux while maintaining a cohesive, laid-back identity.