Atmosphere has been a force in indie hip-hop for more than a decade, during which the duo has shown little interest in sticking to any established formula for mainstream success. Releasing records under their own label and championing a fierce loyalty to their hometown of Minneapolis, Atmosphere has slowly garnered a devoted fan base, achieving success largely on their terms. The duo is composed of rapper Slug (Sean Daley) and DJ/producer Ant (Anthony Davis). Although Slug's lyrics have evolved since the group's early '90s inception, he's generally stuck to a few themes: relationships, the struggles of young families, paying bills, drugs and alcohol. But without glorifying the latter, Atmosphere's music comes across as more of a cautionary tale or a therapeutic vent session.