Ahead of a flurry of activity in 2012 to mark the twentieth anniversary of their first proper single release, Underworld announce the release of two compilations of singles, rarities and collaborations.

Firstly, the band have revisited the 1992-2002 anthology and refreshed it with more material to go some way to complete the picture of the first two decades of Underworld in a 3-disc set. The second release, ‘A Collection’ features edited highlights for those who prefer things short, sweet and to the point. ‘A Collection’ features many of the band’s biggest tracks alongside recent collaborations with High Contrast & Tiesto (The First Note is Silent), Mark Knight & D. Ramirez (Downpipe) and Brian Eno (Beebop Hurry)

Since releasing ‘Barking’ late in 2010, Rick Smith and Karl Hyde have toured extensively across the globe. Their last UK show was a sold out headline gig on Clapham Common. They have also sound-tracked Danny Boyle’s hugely acclaimed award-winning production of Nick Dear’s Frankenstein at the National Theatre.

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) have announced that British electronic music pioneers Underworld have been appointed Music Directors for the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games. The appointment completes the team of senior creatives that will lead the direction of the London 2012 Ceremonies. Underworld duo Rick Smith and Karl Hyde will work alongside British filmmaker and producer Danny Boyle, Artistic Director of the Opening Ceremony and will be responsible for all the music in the three-hour ceremony taking place on July 27 2012.