Air

France, 1995–now

French duo Nicolas Godin and Jean-Benoît Dunckel, formed in Versailles in 1995. Moon Safari wrapped analog-synth dreaminess, Beach Boys harmony and easy-listening cool into lush, cinematic downtempo pop.

MusicRoots documents 2 artists who influenced Air and 1 artist Air influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced Air?

• The Beach Boys — The Beach Boys' lush harmony and studio dreaminess are woven through Air's cinematic downtempo pop.
• Pink Floyd — Pink Floyd's spacey, analog-synth psychedelia is a clear influence on Air's atmospheric electronica.

Which artists did Air influence?

• Röyksopp — Air's chic, chill-out atmospherics and lush synth textures are a clear kin and influence on Röyksopp's sophisticated downtempo.