Dexter’s Beat Laboratory Vol. 51
Dexter’s Beat Laboratory is a weekly collection of songs from DA music editor and staff writer Robyn Dexter. With a taste that can only be described as eclectic — to say nothing of a name that lends itself to punnery — DA is happy to present a selection of tracks personally curated by Dexter for your listening pleasure.
Barely Alive‘s latest is completely unexpected and so unbelievably funky. The dubstep hard-hitters can generally be found creating some of the filthiest wobbles in today’s scene, but their brand new LP sees them painting a canvas of incredibly varied genres. From this groovy collaboration with Great Good Fine Ok to drum & bass on “Warrior” and hip-hop on “Ride Out,” the duo are taking their style to new heights in such a refreshing way.
Prismo gets down and dirty on his latest release, “Solo.” This power anthem puts Jason Derulo’s “Riding Solo” to shame, packing a much grittier, stronger punch. Prismo’s categorized this track as alternative rock, and it certainly leans much more than way than his previous electronic releases. Turns out this is the first of many new tracks in the Austin, Texas artist’s next chapter. “This is the first single from the next chapter of Prismo,” he says in the track’s description. “It’s a statement of my evolution and the passion behind my project.”
And from here on out, we merge into full-fledged drum & bass. New Music Friday has been good to the drum & bass community, delivering heaters from T & Sugah, Matrix & Futurebound, Friction, and so many more. This first one from T & Sugah is the second part of their new two-track Viper Recordings EP. The 3/4 pattern makes for an interesting touch, catching the listener’s ear with its unique beat. Subtle builds and detail-oriented breaks beautifully showcase why this Dutch duo has been on the rise.
Viper Recordings has also delivered the latest from the UK’s famed Matrix & Futurebound: “TARDIS.” They build anticipation impeccably in the introduction, leading the listener down a dark hallway straight into a frenzied drum & bass beat. It’s vivid and eerie, packed with intense, pounding bass and a furious melody. Unfortunately, it’s not out in its entirety yet, but the two-minute clip already previews the immaculate sound design these two demonstrate time and time.
Described by Pete Tong as “one of the big dogs,” Drum & Bass Hall of Famer Friction never ceases to thrill. In his latest, the Brighton producer has remixed UK legends The Prodigy and their song “Need Some1.” This rework is perhaps one of the most intense and creative drum & bass tracks I’ve heard in recent months, further hyping The Prodigy’s forthcoming No Tourists album, due out later this year.