Dubstep 334 Items

`Astro-Darien' is a 26-minute sonic fiction about the break-up of Britain, narrated by synthetic Scottish voices and framed as an eponymous video game. It is the second release on Hyperdub sub-label Flatlines; a dark green 10" in triple gatefold sleeve, with artwork by Kode9's long-time collaborators Lawrence Lek and Optigram, presented as a limited edition of 500 copies. From a Caledonian heart of darkness to a supernova Scotia? The documentary fiction spirals between the role of the catastrophic Darien Scheme in the late 17th century in the founding of the UK, when Scotland failed to colonise part of present-day Panama, and the contemporary disintegration of the Union. In a somewhat wild extrapolation of the race to become the Scotland's first vertical satellite launch station currently playing out between Sutherland Space Port and the Shetland Space Centre, independence is speculatively framed as an exercise of escapology, a jailbreak and exodus to an orbital space habitat, with all the risks and dangers that entails. The loose plot follows a game designer from the fictional `Trancestar North' company who, in attempting to lift the dark spell cast by Darien, models a counter-future by ingesting cosmism, the history of racial capitalism and the demise of Empire into T-Divine, the geopolitics simulator of the game engine. She follows the Brexit algorithm as it runs to its logical conclusion. Initially conceived as an audio essay for diffusion on François Bayle's 50-speaker Acousmonium for Ina-grm in Paris in March 2020, but subsequently postponed by the pandemic, `Astro-Darien' first surfaced as a three-screen A/V installation on the dance floor of Corsica Studios in June 2021, finally reaching the Acousmonium the following October. In July 2022, an instrumental rhythmic version entitled `Escapology' was released on Hyperdub. A live A/V set relating to the `Astro-Darien' game universe will debut at Unsound Festival in October 2022.

Numa Recordings is back again with a heavyweight release for all the grime heads out there: Badman Ting is a proper roadman anthem featuring Killa P, Irah, Long Range (aka Killa’s Army) and XL Mad (member of Numa Crew). The original version sees the four MCs riding a heavy drill riddim with an unparalleled mix of dancehall and grime vocal styles. The riddim, produced by XL Mad himself, is minimal and impactful, combining spooky melodies with distorted 808 bass. All these elements make the whole thing.. a ‘Badman Ting!’

Wonky noir specialist, Kercha, is back with five spun-out cuts, merging dubstep, jazz, garage, techno and a whole lot of weird. ‘Disarray’ is as discombobulating as its title suggests, a slinky beat hidden among umpteen odds and ends from Kercha’s cabinet of curiosities. A subby wiggle here, a far-off siren there, the warm tinkling of a Fender Rhodes, and was that someone falling down the stairs? Our only constant allies are a vaguely disturbing vocal and a bass clarinet that’s definitely up to no good. ‘Witness’ employs a similar palette but switches tactics, stripping back to the basics as faint whispers and the ever-growing presence of a whirring alarm suggest something dangerous might be lurking around the corner. ‘Conjugate’ is more direct, the percussion elevated from its usual backseat as thudding kicks and taught snares make their presence felt among the digi-dub wobbles — a theme repeated on digital bonus track ‘New World’, though there, jagged mid-bass lines provide an extra dollop of screwface-inciting muck. And bringing this leg of DNO’s journey to a close is ‘Long Way’, which rumbles along like a lonely night train, its chugging bassline matched with eerie engine whistles, the rhythmic clink of a cowbell and, somewhere deep in the mix, the familiar clickety-clack of tracks. Weaving together disparate worlds like some interdimensional architect, Kercha simultaneously places us among the inebriated haze and freewheeling expression of a basement jazz club, and the 10-tonne rhythms that have fuelled DNO’s parent party The Mine for the past decade, and will continue to do so into the future. Rhythms of postmodern realism at the very bottom of the DNO.

Now firmly established as a staple of DNO Records, Russian producer Kercha follows up two outstanding releases with his first outing of 2021, the ‘Mental Ballast’ EP.

Dubstep's origins lie in dark 2-step mutations that evolved on dancefloors and in studios in the early 2000s. That same fusion of swing and space and subs can be found by the bucketload throughout the new EP by one of DNO’s staples, Kercha.
Skippy speed garage hats and slippery globules of bass animate the otherwise sparse production on the opening track ‘Feature’, while the wild beat on ‘Absurd’ could catch out any DJs not giving it their full attention. Wrapped in Kercha’s signature sonic debris, it delivers three and a half minutes of rattling, clicking, squelching wizardry.

The B-side gives us ‘Stimulate’, a collaboration with new-gen rising star Hypho. Indebted to trap, it’s full of militant 808 hi-hat rolls and the kind of firing synth tones that spell doom in a sci-fi movie (and tear up festival stages).

Finally, ‘Saturday’ is classic Kercha: sub-bass from the Seventh Circle, and so many suspicious chirps, whistles and hoots that it could soundtrack a nighttime stroll through the woods just as easily as skanking in a smoked-out sweatbox. The track is peppered with voice notes from a friend — snatches of funny, halfcut chatter, as random in content as Kercha's non-vocal sampladelia. The final snippet, which translates to “Saturday dictates its rules”, gives the track its name. A statement that can be read in all sorts of ways, it could even confer a motto for this whole collection, reflecting Kercha’s trademark originality.

The ‘Absurd’ EP is one of Kercha’s most dancefloor-directed releases to date, and whether conjuring the ghosts of club nights past or envisioning the raves of the future, it’ll be dominating sound systems for a long time to come.

Rhythms of postmodern realism at the very bottom of the DNO.

"Top drawer business from Mr McCann, bringing a profound understanding of what high-pressure dub-rooted music should be about, both banging and deep depending on which side you pick :)" This quote taken from the original release in 2012 feels as relevant today as it did then! Proving to be a timeless classic, Dread still gets the pull-up in the dance!

Highly anticipated would be an understatement - so influential are his releases to date, it's difficult to believe he's never released a full length project. The name of the mixtape may already be familiar - an evolution from 2019's acclaimed "Slipping" EP and also the name of a Joy Orbison curated radio station ("Still Slipping: Los Santos") within Grand Theft Auto's immersive world - but in terms of scope and ambition, "still slipping vol.1" is without doubt O'Grady's boldest and most expansive project yet.

First coming to prominence in 2009 with his debut single “Hyph Mngo” - a track that became a bonafide phenomenon and changed the dance music underground forever - the London musician, DJ and producer is undoubtedly one of the most renowned, respected and influential electronic artists of his generation. Whether through his own game-changing releases such as “Ellipsis”, “GR Etiquette”, “Big Room Tech House DJ Tool-TIP!” or the “Slipping” EP, collaborations with the likes of Mansur Brown, Overmono and cutting edge Japanese clothing label Cav Empt, a run of genre-defining releases on his Hinge Finger label, a BBC Radio 1 residency and live appearances that span the most credible underground nights to festival headline slots around the world, the name Joy Orbison has been a constant byword for understated, uncompromising quality. "still slipping vol.1" is the next evolution in his journey. Fans of Joy Orbison's DJ sets and radio shows will already be aware of his diverse tastes and inspirations, represented here through a roll call of delicately curated, mainly UK, collaborators that include Herron, James Massiah, Bathe, Lea Sen, Goya Gumbani and Tyson. Just as important are the voices Joy Orbison's family - mum, dad, sister Sarah, uncle Frankie, uncle Keith (recently departed), auntie Helen and cousins Lola, Mia and Leighann, who was the first person to introduce O’Grady to drum and bass and garage as a kid and stars on the mixtape’s cover art. They appear throughout the record via a series of voice notes, his only contact with his family during this year of worldwide lockdown and an intimate, vicarious glimpse into the personal world of an artist who has generally side-stepped the public gaze. The result is Joy Orbison's best music to date and a powerful distillation of his musical career so far. Recorded in his Walworth Window studio in south east London, this is serious, future-facing sound system music cut through with a sense of warmth and playfulness much needed for these times. In O'Grady's own words, "I made a point of making it feel really human. I wanted it to be quite light hearted and humorous so that the weirder bits of the record didn't seem too wanky or self-indulgent. In my head it’s a soul record but I'm not sure that's how people will hear it”

Schon seit seinen Teenager-Jahren gehört Peter O’Grady, alias Joy Orbison, zu den treibenden Kräften der elektronischen Musik-Szene, der er immer wieder mit seinen Veröffentlichungen neue Wege aufzeigen konnte. Nun erscheint endlich sein erstes Mixtape „still slipping vol. 1“, das beweist, dass er auch in 2021 nichts an Relevanz oder Aktualität verloren hat.

„Heiß erwartet“, trifft es hier wohl, wenn man sich vor Augen ruft, dass Orbison bisher noch kein Album oder mehr als eine EP in seiner Karriere veröffentlicht hat. Der Titel erinnert dabei an die gefeierte 2019er EP „Slipping“ sowie an seinen kuratierten Radio-Kanal „Still Slipping: Los Santos“ in der Grand Theft Auto-Gaming-Welt – gleichzeitig ist dieses 14-Songs umfassende Mixtape die wohl ambitionierteste Veröffentlichung Orbisons bisher und ein Meilenstein in seiner Karriere. 2009 begann diese mit der Debüt-Single „Hype Mngo“, mit der der Londoner Musiker, DJ und Produzent hohe Wellen im Dance Music Underground erzeugte. Es folgten weitere Singles, EPs, Kollaborationen mit Acts wie Mansur Brown oder Overmono, eine BBC One Residency, DJ-Sets und Live-Auftritte in Clubs und bei Festivals auf der ganzen Welt. „still slipping vol.1“ zeugt wie gewohnt von den mannigfaltigen Einflüssen und Strömungen, von denen sich Joy Orbison treiben lässt und rollt den Teppich aus für Kollaborationen mit Acts wie Herron, James Massiah, Bathe, Lea Sen, Goya Gumbani und Tyson. Daneben bietet es einen intimen Einblick auch in die persönliche Welt des Künstlers während den vergangenen Lockdown-Monaten, beinhaltet das Mixtape doch auch einige persönliche Voice Messages seiner Mutter, seines Vaters, der Schwester und Cousinen.

For the second release on his emerging Dark Knight imprint, Dutch producer Jlsxnd7rs has teamed up with Croydon cult hero Rocks FOE for the two-track instrumental offering “Warren & Justin”, available both digitally and on 12” vinyl.

Influential Dutch grime producer Jlsxnd7rs debuts on Dream Eater with the four-track Ceres EP, enlisting MC Armour, a member of the trailblazing N.A.S.T.Y Crew, for vocal duties.

EU

Breaking into a new century, following last months 100th release on the label, Ishan Sound collaborates on 2 killer tracks with Bristol-based Hodge and Alex Hughes aka Muttley.

As deep and wonky as it gets, Buffalo bass wizard isded is back with some potent dubstep saucery in the form of Swang EP - the latest release on Truth’s Deep, Dark & Dangerous imprint. One slurp of the producer’s potion will see you hypnotized and intoxicated in equal measure as the four cuts of the most matured and delectable bass seep through your veins. Tribal feels, sub-shattering lows and crisp percussion all coalesce to create the perfect conditions to take the step into the unknown crevices of your own mind. Ready to get swang? We didn’t think so.

For the second instalment of Subaltern’s 2020 program, we welcome one of the scene’s best-kept secrets – Imajika. The three hard-hitting tracks take listeners on a sonic journey through tribal rhythms, punchy drums and immaculate sound design. Calling upon ancient forces, Imajika makes a powerful statement with the Stagger EP.

Hypho joins the Wheel & Deal camp with his debut Hypho joins the Wheel & Deal camp with his debut Muharib EP available on limited vinyl and digital.

‘Muharib Skank’ is a haunting street anthem. It's laid back flow but aggy vibe is laced with street samples and vocals. The combination of minimal Half Step beats, stabbing synths, rib shaking bass and street slogan ‘Don’t piss me off!’ is infectious. The word Muharib means ‘Warrior’ in Arabic, setting the scene perfectly for the rest of this solid EP.

‘affektion’ is the track that first drew N-Type’s attention. LLush, laid back melodies, trickling drill beats and distant oriental style synths makes this perfect listening at home, on a long journey or at a club to break up a set.

‘moody Marge’ is another haunted dub roll out, continuing the laid back smoked out theme of the EP. Hypho shows off his talent for executing deep, spacious, minimal Dubstep with catching melodies and bass.

‘ms20 Skank’ is a rave dub skanker! Heavyweight bass drop, Dub samples, echo’s and delays, make this impossible not to move to! This one is a great track to start your set with to get the crowd skanking out! This is half step dubstep at it’s finest and concludes Hypho’S debut EP on Wheel & Deal Records.

Transport yourself to the vibrant soundscape of 1964, where a momentous chapter in musical history unfolds with the unveiling of an unreleased gem – an inaugural demo recording meticulously crafted
for presentation to the discerning ears of Micky Most. Marking its grand debut on a 10” picture disc vinyl, this hitherto undiscovered single emerges from the shadows to celebrate its illustrious 60th anniversary.
Immerse yourself in the authentic cadence of British beat rock, as the charismatic vocals of frontman Peter Noone intertwine with the very original lineup of the iconic Herman's Hermits, then simply known as Herman and the Hermits.
This collector's edition vinyl not only invites you to savour the timeless allure of a bygone era but also to revel in the artistic genesis of a legendary band, encapsulated in the resplendent grooves of rock 'n' roll history.

A download code is included. Fellow Rotterdammer Hebbe finally makes his Next Level debut. And what a debut it is ladies and gentlemen. Two of his most sought-after tunes on one smoking looking little marbled 10 inch. Featuring the soundsystem skank tank that is "Quiche" and "Looters" Hebbe's 125 bpm adventure that had us nodding the moment we heard it. What a tune.

We are proud to announce the latest addition to the Moonshine Recordings artist roster - Halcyonic & G Roots - two young talented producers out of Bristol, UK. Their debut moonshine release entitled 'Future' with vocal support from Junior Dread and additional remix by Violinbwoy will be released on the 6th of July on vinyl & digital.

It's been a few years since Gemmy returned with a release, but he's back in business with a brand new 12 on Infernal Sounds. Entering the imprint on the milestone 30th release, this is a record of pure character and old-school licks that you'd be more than accustomed to if you've listened to the purple-laced producer in previous years. 'Irreversible Culture' kicks things off with a rough and tough low end kick and step, layering that ultimate groove and steppers delight.

The combination of exotic instruments, deep off-beat rumblings and Rider Shafique vocals, deliver an almost hypnotic journey through Gantz's mind.

Infernal Sounds strip things down and go back to basics with their next endeavor, returning to their roots by releasing a two track single by debutants, Frenchless. Not only is it their first venture on the label, but this is their first ever release under this moniker from the mysterious deadly duo.

First taste of the upcoming Tempo Dreams Vol. 5 album, compiled by LA based beatmaker Free The Robots. Coming in with a seperate vibe all it's own, the 7" features the exclusive track "Nasi Goreng", a lo-fi psychdelic beat heavy romp through South East Asia, complete with Gamelan vibes. On the flip, "Marano" is a downtempo ultra bass heavy joint with sparse production, vocal chops and swirling synths.

Electronica, Post-Dubstep, Rave & deep Techno blended into this mighty EP!

‘saturday Specials’ sees the legendary Bristol drum & bass don Clipz remixing Everything Is Recorded’s acclaimed second album ‘Friday Forever’ in its entirety. Released Digital on 29th January via XL Recordings, ‘saturday Specials’ is Clipz’s first album length project and is a drum & bass masterpiece, split across three 12” vinyl editions. The album features a host of the original album’s vocalists and collaborators (including Berwyn, Ghostface Killah, Aitch, Sampha, Flohio and A.K. Paul) weaving in and out of Clipz's trademark future-facing productions.

‘saturday Specials’ sees the legendary Bristol drum & bass don Clipz remixing Everything Is Recorded’s acclaimed second album ‘Friday Forever’ in its entirety. Released Digital on 29th January via XL Recordings, ‘saturday Specials’ is Clipz’s first album length project and is a drum & bass masterpiece, split across three 12” vinyl editions. The album features a host of the original album’s vocalists and collaborators (including Berwyn, Ghostface Killah, Aitch, Sampha, Flohio and A.K. Paul) weaving in and out of Clipz's trademark future-facing productions.

‘saturday Specials’ sees the legendary Bristol drum & bass don Clipz remixing Everything Is Recorded’s acclaimed second album ‘Friday Forever’ in its entirety. Released Digital on 29th January via XL Recordings, ‘saturday Specials’ is Clipz’s first album length project and is a drum & bass masterpiece, split across three 12” vinyl editions. The album features a host of the original album’s vocalists and collaborators (including Berwyn, Ghostface Killah, Aitch, Sampha, Flohio and A.K. Paul) weaving in and out of Clipz's trademark future-facing productions.