Metalheadz keep the quality coming with yet another all-conquering release for 2011. The third instalment of their ‘Genesis’ EP series, this latest batch of four tracks from the legendary label all act as perfect modern-day interpretations of the unmistakable Metalheadz sound.
Up first, Need For Mirrors deliver the intense stepping bass-weight of ‘Lofar’. Need For Mirrors have unleashed plenty of thoughtful-yet-deadly D&B over the last couple of years for some of the scene’s premium imprints, but this contribution to Metalheadz is one of their finest creations to date. Twisted mentasm licks and spooky atmospherics work with and against a relentless stepping drum beat and a suffocating bassline that literally knocks you over every time it drops.
Dutch producer, Nymfo makes his Metalheadz debut with the funk-ridden, spacious groove of ‘Conscious Minds’. Unlike anything you’ve probably heard from Nymfo before, this track takes things deep and drips with originality, without losing that all- important dancefloor groove. Glitched out beats, unusual synth tones and a constant sense of progression combine with real sophistication.
Regular ‘Headz contributor and much-tipped new talent Mikal follows up his track for the previous ‘Gemini’ EP with the monstrous ‘Epic’. An enormous, warm, phased bassline does the damage here, breathing in and out between a delicate shaking drum groove while the occasional flourish of Indian vocals and dub fx fill in the gaps.
Finally, dubstep producer Komonazmuk combines with fellow Bristol producer, Critical Impact; who’s been turning heads with his brilliant take on jump-up D&B recently. ‘Translation’ sounds like nothing you’d expect from these producers, but it is exactly what you’d expect from Metalheadz – an eerie slice of classic jungle taken from the very top drawer. Constantly switching up and exhibiting endless drum edits and face-twisting bass licks, this could only have sounded at home on Goldie’s label.
Released by: metalheadz
Release/catalogue number: Meth096
