Excision - Virus (2016)

A producer of heavy and aggressive dubstep who frequently collaborates with vocalists, Jeff Abel goes by Excision. The British Columbian's first tracks, some of which were issued on Rottun, a label started by him and fellow producer Downlink, were released during the tail-end of the 2000s. For his debut album, however, he signed on to Mau5trap; X Rated, featuring appearances from the likes of Downlink, Datsik, and Mr. Hudson, was released in 2011. The more intense album Codename X, which arrived four years later, debuted at number three on Billboard's Dance/Electronic Albums chart, aided by singles like "Bring the Madness" and "Robo Kitty." Throughout his ascent, he was active as a DJ and performer, and released annual mixes in his Shambhala series. ~ Andy Kellman