Inkliing (Conrad Colson) was a London-based producer whose work drew from a kaleidoscopic range of influences, resulting in a sound that was both distinctive and deeply immersive. Blending hip-hop, jazz, dubstep, downtempo electronica, funk, world music and cinematic textures, his productions carried a rare sense of depth and atmosphere.
Influenced by artists such as Nitin Sawhney, Flying Lotus, Massive Attack, Roots Manuva and The Future Sound of London, Inkliing developed a reputation as a forward-thinking producer, constantly evolving and refining his sound.
Signed to Dancing Turtle in early 2008, he released his self-titled debut EP later that year to widespread attention. The release gained international airplay across tastemaker radio, reaching audiences in Japan, Australia, the USA and throughout Europe.
His second EP, Bounce (2010), further expanded his profile and led to a collaboration with legendary outfit Nightmares On Wax. Inkliing featured on volumes 2 and 3 of their Wax On Records series with the tracks Nevermind and Dancing Nomads. He also remixed work for fellow Dancing Turtle artists including Amycanbe, Paradise Found and the Lani Singers.
Over time, his sound evolved toward downtempo jazz, trip-hop and deep house. In 2013, he released the EP Generals on Dusted Wax Kingdom, before increasingly focusing on deep house productions under his own name.
Conrad tragically passed away in March 2022 at the age of 34, following a long struggle with mental illness. In 2023, his fourth EP, Firefly, was released on Closer To Truth. Created during the COVID-19 pandemic, the EP stands among his most textured work, bringing together his jazz and electronic influences. Described by close friends as a “soundtrack to un-lockdown”, it captures both uncertainty and renewal.
A humble and gifted artist, Conrad left a lasting imprint through his music. His work continues to resonate, inviting listeners into a world of rich sound and emotional depth.
