Kristian Beyer and Frank Wiedemann of Detroit-influenced house duo Âme grew up in the German town of Karlsruhe, located right on the border with France. Though appreciated in underground circles, Âme name was not widely known before their breakthrough hit "Rej." Released in 2006, the track introduced the duo to house music fans worldwide, becoming one of the year's club favorites. "Rej" has since appeared on close to 50 collections and mix CDs. Since their acceptance into house music's mainstream, Âme has put together compilations for labels like NRK and BBE. Some remixes to their credit for the powerful British Defected label have opened doors that led from the house underground to dance music's center stage. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez