Categories
Dancefloor Smashers Featured Releases

Don’t Stop and Get Slapped!

Neonlight returns with an amazing 2019 version of their hit single “Boom / Slap” on Blackout Music. The release boasts two phenomenally written tunes. Boom brings you that PacMan style bass line with some super sweet foleys through out the track. This is a decent piece of music but Slap is where its at! “Slap” starts off with eire sci-fi atmosphere an a simple sequenced synth that will make you feel like you’re trying to get through a scene from Pandorum. The drop is screechy and simple and it slowly moves toward some laughter and that vocal “SLAP!” The drop is a total dance floor smasher! It its with a pitch drop bass and triplet tom-like synth. The distortion is clean on the high end and the mix just cuts through ANY sound system. This track will guarantee you a rewind if you have a crowd full of awesome folks.

If they don’t start jamming to this track they should all leave the planet. Seriously. This track is a set smasher and Neonlight are kings!

Categories
Dancefloor Smashers Jump Up Neurofunk Techstep

Subtension Rocks it out!

Subtension – Nestbox EP is fantastic!

Critical drum & bass imprint Cause4concern know how to make their presence felt . Having ended 2017 on a climatic release from rising stalwart Akov, who proudly stepped up the label’s hold over the scene’s most unrelenting newcomers, they return with another output which solidifies how imperative they’ve come within its very fabric. Slovakian based producer Subtension is the next artist to slide into C4C’s crucial roster, bringing with him a four-track offering which is sure to orchestrate sub-littered damage over the months to come

The Nestbox EP highlights the wide ranging scope of a label like Cause4Concern. Yet again the label retains its snapping reputation, cutting forward with only the hungriest of newcomers. And together with the likes of Subtension, they’ve continued this pattern, proving that time after time they’re just as destructive as they were when they first affirmed themselves as a founding part of neurofunk. Title-track ‘Nestbox’ straight away underline Subtension’s ingenious take on drum & bass production. It’s sci-fi inspired sonics, ticking instrumentals, wooden drum pads and ticking bass stabs draw the track into an undeniable groove, one which oozes with a dancefloor edge whilst shifting from layer to layer. ‘Left Handed’ pulls out the clacking percussive streams which filter through each channel, gradually bringing you across step by step until its breakdown finally leaves you freefalling into a fluctuating bassline. Up next, Dephzac joins Subtension for collaborative track ‘Tomb Diver’, staying true to form with a deeply lined composition and subterranean bass-levels. Each segment pushes you further and further beneath the surface, never allowing you to come up for air. And then comes ‘Polar’, a more intimate finisher which introduces you through a dainty littering of melodies before the track rolls out with more hard-hitting drum rhythms. It’s of a softer hue, adding diversity to the C4C roster and back catalogue, helping to demonstrate how they became such renowned figures.

Alongside groundbreaking releases like the one provided by Subtension, they’ve held their domination since the label first came in to power. This is something they’re sure to uphold, still pushing the bar with every release.

Categories
Dancefloor Smashers Neurofunk Techstep

Unity across the land & through the cosmos

Akrom & Custom Soldierz – Empathy EP

Italy’s badman, Akrom, and Puerto Rican trio, Custom Soldierz join forces and bring you some Neurofunk meant to bring your mind over a Rosenstein Bridge and through the center of the galactic void. The collaboration brings you ‘Empathy’ EP on Kosen Productions, a French record label that is ever growing in the scene. They have amazing releases from artists like Bohemian, Maniatics, Triamer and Nagato, and they continue to thrive in the scene bringing you quality music.

Empathy EP is a continuation of the labels ear for fantastic music. The title track ‘Empathy’ is a deep piece of musical art that pays testament to a true “neuro” sound. The filtered bass lines, constant foleys, and great synths keep you moving through the track. The track starts you off with pads and an eire atmosphere that sounds like the planet Jupiter is whispering sweet nothings into your ear. The brassy pads continue to grow and the percussion brings your ever closer to a laser stab that grows in builds to the drop. As said before, the bass sounds keep your moving and the drums, while simple, keep the funk alive! Massive release from Akrom & Custom Soldierz and we cannot wait for more! Get your copy here!

From the Presser:

One thing about independent record labels is that their scope for picking up talent which doesn’t conform to the mainstream is second to none. And a label which has held this skill from the beginning is Kosen Production, the Toulouse based imprint which prides itself on bringing forward the best of drum & bass from its furthest corners. After already giving a platform to the likes of Signs, The Clamps and Nickbee, to name a few high-ranking producers who’ve released on the label, they’re still making their impact felt throughout the genre with a brand new EP from key players within the wider global market. Puerto Rican based Custom Soldierz jump on board alongside Italian production maestro Akrom for a double-sided output which begins the New Year for Kosen in an explosive fashion. The throttle has been pushed to the floor and as a result, a collection of artists are about to reinstate Kosen’s reputation, providing yet more must-have cuts for music lovers.

The ‘Empathy EP’ drops you straight into the production styles of both Custom Soldierz and Akrom, who dominate with their slick, carefully fashioned musical offerings whilst epitomising the standard held by Kosen’s back catalogue. First track ‘Empathy’ draws out on stepped out percussion, a meandering bassline and a beginning which leaves a foreboding taste on the synapses. Bit by bit you’re pulled into the mix, before you’re able to fully see the intricacies of the collaboration and how it came together so easily. It’s a title-track which packs a punch, leaving you waiting for more as the record finally wraps up.

And finally comes ‘Shifter’, which ducks and dives between slews of synth and padded bass notes. You’re drawn into an almighty breakdown, taking its time before you’re then shot down a chasm of flipping beats and punching drums. The track’s well-chiselled hook instantly grabs you, sweeping its way between every segment. This is Custom Soldierz and Akrom at their most versatile, helping to develop the sound of Kosen alongside their own. It’s looking to be another monumental year for Kosen and on first listen to this EP, they clearly feel the same way.

Worldwide release: Jan 22, 2018.

Follow Akrom:
@akrom
www.facebook.com/akrommusic

Follow Custom Soldierz:
@customsoldierz
www.facebook.com/customsoldierz

Kosen Home :
www.kosenprod.com/
kosenproduction.bandcamp.com/
www.facebook.com/Kosenproduction/
twitter.com/kosenprod

Categories
Dancefloor Smashers Featured Releases Neurofunk

Have you taken your RedPill yet?

RedPill continues to slam the dance floors

This frenchman is certainly making his rounds in the Neurofunk scene. With releases on Invisible, Bad Taste, Cause 4 Concern, Kinetik, and famed Neurofunk Grid, RedPill continues to improve and amaze neuro fans worldwide. His latest EP on Eatbrain is probably one of the best in the business. Terminal (Distribution) is launching this thing like a winning field goal through the cosmos. “Call of the Warchief” EP is one of those releases where both producers will analyze and fans will carry in their playlist for years to come. Its a mix of high quality production, mixing, and creativity within this crazy box of a musical genre that continues to evolve day to day. This artist is becoming the War Chief of D&B and we can’t wait for more. Check out one of the few releases that deserve a full 5 stars!

From the Press Release:

// artists
@redpilldnb
facebook.com/redpilldnb/

@fragz-1
facebook.com/fragzys/

// label
facebook.com/Eatbra1n
twitter.com/eatbra1n

The conflict had raged through the night, staining the battlefield black with the dark blood of the fallen, a crust of congealing life permeating the bleak soil of this desolate place – the air punctuated the occasional shriek as soldiers fell – their voices joined with the weak moans of the dying that littered the landscape. Their enemies were gaining ground on that field of death, threatening to overwhelm the horde and put an end to their centuries-long advance. Dawn was approaching, and with it, it would carry the messenger of their fate. The clan leader knew this, shifting on his mount where he watched the battle below and tearing the very air with his harsh cry… summoning the one who could turn their ill tide. From amongst the horde, his twisted banners arose, knocking both ally and foe aside, the deadly Ogrehund before him gnashing at their chains, hungry for the blood that would cascade through their sharp teeth. The skulls of his fallen enemies adorned his sides, his thirst for death unvanquishable.. His clansmen hailed him, the WARCHIEF – here to free the living from the burden of their miserable lives…

REDPILL makes a swift and unforgiving follow up to 2017’s well-received REDPILL EP with another slew of cutting-edge tracks for EATBRAIN with his WAR CHIEF EP. Carrying all of the energy, balance and restrained powerful force that ravers have come to associate with this extraordinary and prolific French producer, the 6 tunes within carry devastating impact. From the percussive experimentation of FADING to the funk-filled madness of NEURODISCO and the tearout battle cry of CALL OF THE WARCHIEF – Redpill marks out a fierce perimeter that offers no mercy – this is an audio assault for the strong-hearted. TRANSFORM (feat. FRAGZ) brings an additional layer of dense but captivating aggression to the system, held within a tightly bound structure, whilst BIOMEKA and ARCADE SANCTUM offer up the kind of pointed and dynamic neurofunk that fans of Redpill know and love.

With his second significant foray into the Eatbrain label, REDPILL continues to prove his effectiveness on the dance and willingness to experiment relentlessly with the neurofunk sound. EATBRAIN provide a solid and nurturing home on which this talented young producer continues to flex his exponentially growing skills.

// release date
8th January Beatport Exclusive
22nd January worldwide

 

Categories
Dancefloor Smashers Featured Releases Liquid Neurofunk Techstep

Go Nen LP – 5 Yrs!

Santoku Records Go Nen LP is Drum & Bass at it’s finest

2017 marks the five year anniversary for Santoku, a definitive label for not just the US drum & bass scene but also globally. They pride themselves on being a platform for both European and American talent, which is exactly what their Go Nen album sampler presents with each of the unique sonic cuts displayed on its track listing. With records from Diode, dLo, Mean Teeth, Kodin, Horde and Hajimari, you’re pulled into a colour-wheel of musicality from start to finish. And lead by label-head honcho Logam, who appears alongside M.Justa, it’s no surprise that Santoku has already manifested a stellar reputation in under a decade.

Diode’s ‘Heinous’ begins the album, with a foreboding intro which suddenly chops and changes whilst catapulting you down a chasm of spitting beats. Each rumbling bass note pulls you in further, leaving you gasping for breath beneath its weight. Veteran producer dLo from Austin [Texas] adds his track ‘Clapback’, with the same passion, technical skills and keen ear which has pushed Santoku into the forefront recently, alongside snapping percussion and a guttural bassline. Then comes Mean Teeth’s ‘Time Shift’, presenting why they’re such hotly tipped newcomers and pushing forward on segments of crushing LFO. Logam and M.Justa delivers their collaboration ‘Dream Catcher’, a more ethereal liquid offering with a steppy melody which weaves itself throughout the mix. Kodin’s ‘Pillow Puncher’ steps up next, crashing forward on old-school breakdowns and snapping drum patterns which become more and more incessant with every beat loop. Horde’s ‘Concession’ is just as ominous, with a ticking intro that gradually winds further and further into minimalistic, snapping layers of sound. And lastly, Hajimari draws for ‘Get Lost’, featuring the vocal overtones of Cluda, throwing up an ingenuity which ruminates throughout the entirety of Santoku’s back catalogue.

As a collection, the Go Nen album is the perfect way to immortalise Santoku’s legacy. With every release they’ve unleashed this year, they’ve made more and more of an impact and the Go Nen LP is their final word for this year. Into their sixth year, they’ll continue to be an independent who pushes the boundaries whilst still catering to a huge array of tastes.

 

Categories
Dancefloor Smashers Neurofunk Reviews Techstep

Add This Weapon

Current Value brings your the Deadly Toys LP

It’s been an amazing ride as we watched Current Value grow throughout the years. His sound design is masterful and a testament to his name. He surely represents the current value of drum & bass production. His Deadly Toys LP on Noisia’s Invisible contains a plethora of massiveness. While mixing noise, bass, synthesized drums and mastering techniques only he can be familiar with CV brings you through a whirlwind of sound. This LP is surely one of the best out there and will be a classic to listen to 20 yrs from now. Get the album here!

fb.com/currentvalue
@tim-e-aka-current-value
twitter.com/timcurrentvalue

twitter.com/invisiblerecs
fb.com/invisiblerecordings
instagram.com/visionrecordings
open.spotify.com/user/InvisibleRecordings

Categories
Dancefloor Smashers Neurofunk NeuroHop

AKOV is a monster!

Akov – Growing Pains EP

Check out the latest from the bass beast we know is Akov. His Growing Pains EP on Cause 4 Concern Recordings is a force to be reckoned with!

Categories
Dancefloor Smashers Featured Releases Jungle Liquid Reviews

There is love, Kove!

Kove brings you In From the Cold

United Kingdom is the home of our Drum & Bass soul and they stay true to the sound and the journey in it’s progression. UK native, Kove, is consistent with this feeling in the his latest release. ‘In From the Cold’ EP is a testament to real UK D&B. Kove demonstrate a talent true to only the best producers in the scene. “Ain’t No Love” is a track that can be in any feature film, listened to on the radio, and enjoyed world wide by everyone! This track transcends time with his old school jungle drums, reese bass-line, and beautiful synths. This track connects 2002 and 2050. So odd the hook is “There ain’t no love here anymore” when all I hear from the music is love and passion. Get it 11/24!

The 4 track EP (not including a radio version of Ain’t No Love) has our favorite track on there. A simple bass-line, simple drums, and simple structure than for some reason or other, makes you feel so complex. This song ascends you to another plane of existence. It allows you to look onto the world below and reminds you are more than just human. ‘Valkyrie’ is our pick for this release! Jeez, Kove… You’re a badmon! Get your copy of Kove ‘In From The Cold’ EP on Drum&BassArena, NOW!

 

From the EP: ‘Dig It’

https://soundcloud.com/drumandbassarena/sets/kove-in-from-the-cold-ep/

Check out new releases from Drum&BassArena here.

And Fire this up for quick access to your favorite distributer.

Categories
Dancefloor Smashers Featured Releases Neurofunk NeuroHop Uncategorized

The Steam Engine of Neurofunk

Magnetude continues to run through the competition!

Oh my goodness. Eatbrain is slcertainly one of the most respectable labels out there. The curators have the best taste in the neurofunk sound. They just had some slammers released and while we feel they are releasing too much at times, they are blowing us away with every release. With that said, this release is straight fire! 

Magnetude rocked a fantastic release with Lifted Music and that track “Now Run” hyped me up so much! Now, with Eatbrain, Magnetude releases what I feel is Eatbrains best release to date. All tracks are hype but our favorites are Press Play and Banshee. Take a listen below and make sure you buy to support this monsterous duo! 

BUY LINKS // 

Beatport – https://www.beatport.com/release/steamfunk-ep/2134069

Categories
Dancefloor Smashers Featured Releases Free Download Jump Up Jungle Labels Liquid Music Neurofunk NeuroHop News Reviews Techstep World News

iluvdrumandbass We all Love It!

iluvdrumandbass is the bee’s knees!

Whoa! So over the past few days, a wave of community has surged online. Several pioneers and drivers of the Drum & Bass sound got together and discussed the importance of reaching out on social media platforms. They are absolutely correct. All of the fans of Drum & Bass are certainly biased that the sound is amazing. However, one of the problems our sound has is the lack of viewership of the average listener. This has held us back and has kept our business from growing as big as other top level genres. Some factors have pushed us to the back of the room and seclude us from the rest of the club music seen. We simply don’t have a public “visual” look to show how professional our sound is. We have let our rebellious hard heads stay in the raver attire we grew up with. This, along with, drugs within “rave” culture (as portrayed by the media), has made all people steer clear of our scene and dub our sound “techno.” Which angers me btw! And now to the birth of iluvdrumandbass.

I’ve said this needed to be changed for ever ago. But to this day, it hasn’t, for everyone outside of England, anyway. But times are changing and the artists are using the limitless power of the world wide web to create a community where we de-segragate our sub genres and have one full playlist where all labels and artists will have the chance to be heard. Check out the latest from labels such as RAM, Hospital, Technique, Viper, Breakbeat Kaos, Formation & Playaz’s, Liquicity, EatbrainCritical, Santoku and more!

Check out Spotify’s newest Drum & Bass playlist I ❤ DRUM & BASS here.

I ❤ DRUM & BASS represents an unprecedented act of unity and a coming together of Drum & Bass labels from all over the world. An acknowledgement of the genre’s diversity and multifaceted strengths by creating a definitive musical resource, a constantly updated playlist from all the scenes label’s and artists.

Spanning all sub-genres and being inclusive of all participating labels and artists ranging from RAM, Hospital, Technique, Viper, Breakbeat Kaos, Formation & Playaz’s, Liquicity, Eatbrain, Exit and Critical.. and that’s just for starters!

The concept emerged in October 2017 on a special message board originally set up to celebrate Grooverider’s birthday, with DJ Fresh sparking a conversation about the importance of adapting to and embracing streaming platforms. This line of thinking inspired Simon Bassline Smith to come up with the concept of a definitive drum & bass playlist for everyone’s music to feature on as soon as it’s released. A playlist with all forms of drum & bass from across the globe, self-organised by the scene itself and curated by the labels, with each label picking 1 track per week to be included.

A project with no political or corporate agenda, that exists purely to provide a home for the sounds of this global movement. A place where fans of the genre can explore the diverse sonic landscape of the music they love, or for those who want to explore the genre to immediately have access to the full spectrum. Without the bias of major label ownership and curation.

Driven by the strength of the idea, soon a core following of Dan (DJ Fresh), Simon Bassline Smith, Mickey Finn, Grooverider, Brendan Futurebound and DJ SS excitedly invited label heads from all over the world into a telegram chat room and I ❤ Drum & Bass was born.

Hundreds of players and labels have come together and committed to the concept from across the scene to bring you a place where the latest music is added daily by all the labels and artists you love. Including long-running institutions, hype and fresh labels and also niche imprints. Even unsigned releases and Drum & Bass releases from outside the traditional Drum & Bass labels are represented.

I ❤ Drum & Bass represents an evolving attitude in one of the most consistent and present genres of club music, bringing a new unity and energy to the table that’s set to invigorate the genre and inspire the world of music.

We need your help to spread the word. So please get on Facebook / Twitter/ Instagram / Snapchat and help us spread the message #iluvdrumandbass

I ❤ Drum & Bass is at…  http://bit.ly/iluvdrumandbass