Morcheeba – Big Calm

Big Calm (1998) is Morcheeba’s lush and soulful second album, a defining work of late-’90s downtempo and trip-hop. Building on the smoky grooves of their debut, the band refined their sound into something warmer and more organic, blending electronic beats with folk, blues, and cinematic textures. Skye Edwards’s velvety vocals glide through tracks like “The Sea,” “Part of the Process,” and “Blindfold,” her understated delivery giving the album an intimate, dreamlike tone. The result is a seamless mix of sophistication and ease — perfect for both late nights and lazy afternoons. Big Calm stands out for its timeless mood and balance between electronic polish and natural instrumentation. The production is rich but never heavy-handed, with the Godfrey brothers crafting intricate layers that reward close listening. It’s an album that defined chill-out culture while transcending it — a masterclass in atmosphere, melody, and quiet emotion that remains one of Morcheeba’s most beloved releases.

Reviews

“A beautifully crafted album — smooth, soulful, and effortlessly cool.” – Rolling Stone

“Big Calm captures the elegance and emotion of trip-hop at its finest.” – The Guardian

“Warm, seductive, and sonically rich — an essential of its era.” – AllMusic