The Knocks
Electronic · US · Active since 2007

The Knocks

Sun-drenched synth-pop and nu-disco that feels like a permanent rooftop party. High-energy, collaborative dance music built for golden hour and neon nights.

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Intro

The Knocks, comprised of Ben 'B-Roc' Ruttner and James 'JPatt' Patterson, are a cornerstone of the American indie-dance scene. Formed in 2008 in New York City, the duo transitioned from prolific remixers for major pop stars to influential tastemakers and producers.

Their sound identity is rooted in a blend of disco, funk, and synth-pop, often referred to as 'nu-disco' or 'indie dance.' A key element of their career arc is their role as curators; through their HeavyRoc and Black Clay labels, they helped launch the careers of artists like Sofi Tukker and St. Lucia. Their discography is marked by high-profile collaborations, bridging the gap between underground electronic textures and mainstream pop accessibility. Critical consensus highlights their knack for melody and 'feel-good' atmospheres, though they are also respected for their technical production skills, earning Grammy nominations for their work with ODESZA and Purple Disco Machine. They occupy a cultural space similar to a 'modern-day Chic,' focusing on the groove and the collective experience of the dance floor.

Our Catalog5 Albums · 2016 · 2025
The Sound · Center of GravityWeighted across the artist's discography. Tap a trait for examples.
Adjacent Artists
Alan Braxe
Alan Braxe

Shares euphoric, joyful, nostalgic (moods); rooftop, summer, urban_night (atmosphere)

Duke Dumont
Duke Dumont

Shares euphoric, joyful, nostalgic (moods); house, synth-pop (subgenres)

Purple Disco Machine
Purple Disco Machine

Shares euphoric, joyful, nostalgic (moods); rooftop, summer, urban_night (atmosphere)

The Magician
The Magician

Shares euphoric, joyful, nostalgic (moods); rooftop, summer, urban_night (atmosphere)

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Lenno

Shares euphoric, joyful, nostalgic (moods); rooftop, summer, urban_night (atmosphere)

O
Oliver

Shares synth-pop, house, electropop (subgenres); studio_polished, analog_warmth, maximalist (production style)

D
DVAS

Shares synth-pop, house, electropop (subgenres); rooftop, summer, urban_night (atmosphere)

G
Gigamesh

Shares euphoric, joyful, nostalgic (moods); synth-pop, house (subgenres)

Peter & The Magician
Peter & The Magician

Shares house, electropop (subgenres); euphoric, joyful, nostalgic (moods)

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Kolidescopes

Shares euphoric, joyful, nostalgic (moods); summer, rooftop, golden_hour (atmosphere)

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Lenno

Shares nu disco, studio_polished, house, falsetto (signature)

Calvin Harris
Calvin Harris

Shares high-gloss pop sheen, euphoric, summer, studio_polished (detail)

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