MakeItGood
Loud Noise and Dub All Or Nothing have teamed up to bring you a unique night of dubstep and bass music, at London nightclub Hidden. Using all 3 arches of Hidden, and pushing a variation of different styles of bass music on a heavyweight sound system, this event is sure to be massive!
Advanced tickets are £10 and you can buy them here, and there will be more on the door. For more information, check out the Facebook event page.
So it’s been a week since MakeItGood and FatKidOnFire celebrated reaching the first 100 features in the MIG x FKOF series. Both the mixes from Kaiju and Beezy are still going strong – 1,800 and 3,000 plays respectively! Today sees us breaking into hopefully what’ll be the start of the next 100 with a feature with Subline Recordings. The guys behind the label are pushing the deeper end of the dubstep sound in the depths of Russia and have brought some seriously amazing artists to the region – where they’ve thrown some awesome parties. If you don’t know Subline, you can follow the guys from Yekaterinburg on SoundCloud, Facebook, Twitter and Bandcamp. Label co-founder Niiki Bushido’s also done a truly weighty 70m mix which you can find at the end of the interview…
Who and what is Subline Records?
Initially it was me and my guys who launched one of the first dubstep shows in Russia, streaming on a local internet station back in 2009. At that moment we had enough names from Russian making really good music and we made a kind of connection, which allowed our project to develop into a website & digital label. It is still just a few enthusiastic guys who run Subline Records. We promote the sound among the wider Russian audience and direct the label to the scene overseas as well. The label’s not too big but we’ve also set up the sublabel (which is orientated towards a more traditional sound) called Lunar Kitchen which is operated by the talented producer from our crew – Moon Officer.
What got you into mixing, producing and supporting dubstep? What’s the label’s style – big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?
I have been influenced for quite a long time – by diverse break beats to jungle and garage. Later it was DnB and breaks, and then it was around mid 2000-s when the new and exciting British sounds of bass-oriented grime and dubstep music first caught my attention. I felt something special about dubstep’s deep and urban-wise atmosphere, got hooked and I started buying my favorite releases on 12’’ (now my collection is a few hundred items). Sometimes it was really hard to purchase/ wait for the record to arrive; it can take a few weeks (even months) for delivery to Russia, especially as we have postal troubles (i.e. when you find your record broken on arrival or just lost). I kept on communicating with different people (who were into the dubstep sound) and as a result started playing out as a DJ in local clubs in 2007. A bit later we joined our efforts to move things onwards and upwards, and so ‘Subline’ was born. As for our sound, we have been always stuck to the more classic/ darker sounds as you’ll hear in the mix!
Which artists are currently signed to Subline? What’s the dubstep scene like in Russia?
We’ve got mostly Russian and post-Soviet producers signed to the label – but there are other names from around the world like Aeolho (Germany) who’s gonna rinse it in the future, TZR (USA), Imaginary Friend (Greece), UNCO (UK), Kawook (UK) and many more high quality artists. Here in Russia the dubstep movement is quite widely spread and there’s an ever increasing number of original producers who are still less known abroad. We quite often get feedback like “Oh, God this Siberian guy sounds serious, almost as good as Kryptic Minds” or something of that kind! Lots of Russian producers now follow the commercial and more mainstream path, but you’ll find the essence of a deep and dark sound in the majority of our Russian guys’ work.
Are you guys primarily a digital label, or have you(/ will you) released on vinyl? Do you think vinyl is a long term/ viable platform for releases?
Right now we’re dealing with digital releases only – but we’re really trying to do our best to find the opportunity to go vinyl in the future. We have a deep respect for this analogue sound (you can still find plates in our boxes) but it’s enormously hard to do it here in Russia. We have to put all the necessary things together and make the right connections (which we don’t have at the moment) – if anyone reading this is can help please get in touch!
You’ve thrown some pretty epic events with some of the best dubstep DJ/s producers. What’s been your best gig and if you book DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?
Yeah, it was 2 years ago when we decided to bring foreign producers to Yekaterinburg (a place where not many dubstep artists from abroad have been to). Our first guest was Dom Ruckspin (who was amazing), then we got Rob Sparx, Von D, Riskotheque, Vandera, Planas and more. Each event was a night to remember for us (and for our followers we hope). As each of our guests is one of a kind they’re all cool guys who’ve got a unique sound and vision on music. Our audience isn’t too big but provided huge support – so the parties are pretty emotional!
Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?
Recently we really enjoy the cuts from:
It’s all about their sound which makes them unique (and goes straight into your mind and soul). It makes your body move to the rhythm. We see these guys as our future guests.
What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?
I believe it’s quite clear with the sound mutations which dubstep had to undergo: it’s resulted in various subgenres with their own different atmospheres and structures. You can define dubstep as numerous variations – some of them are more minimalistic and abstract in nature, some of them are more exaggerated. It’ll continue like that until the listeners get tired (like those who’re crazy about trends) and it will be the true heads left – who passionately collect bass music classics (like Deep Medi releases) like numismatists collect their rare coins.
Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?
Right now, we’ve got a fresh release from our Greece friends in Undersky Collective. We also have forthcoming releases by Faib, Akemi, RedRabbit, Standby, TZR, Kaskaad and other great producers.
Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?
When you’re creating or producing, just listen to what your heart’s saying. Steer away from clichés and trends, try to avoid any influence from elsewhere and do what you really want to do and what really makes you happy.
As Hannes from Absolute Filth says: “Just as I think you guys can’t beat Kaiju’s mix, you drop this one. Love the weight of this one”. Niiki’s mix is 70m of Subline releases – both out and forthcoming. It’s a serious addition to the series, grab the download and let us know if you feel it!
Track list:
1. N.Killah - Night Whispers [SUBL006]
2. Faib - Broken Mirror [forthcoming Subline]
3. Imaginary Friend & UNCO - Bad Dreams Factory [SUBL015]
4. Aeolho - Stop Motion [SUBL008]
5. MilWalker - RainRain [forthcoming Subline]
6. Apatic - Your Perfection [SUBL014]
7. Exez - Frustration [SUBL006]
8. Budy - Experience [SUBL010]
9. Moon Officer - Kuiper Belt [forthcoming Subline]
10. Akemi - Fly Warrior [forthcoming Subline]
11. Aeolho - Project Mantis [SUBL008]
12. Apatic - Neverwhere [SUBL014]
13. Exez - The Lynch law [MindStep Music]
14. Dark Soul - Give my soul [SUBL013]
15. Innex - Norilsk [Terminal Dusk Dub]
16. Aeolho - Purple Dawn 140 Refix [SUBL013]
17. DubZaP - Everybody [dub]
18. DubZaP - Dark Horse [dub]
19. Akemi - Satoshi Crasn [forthcoming Subline]
20. Innex - Lust jazz [dub]
21. SerJah500 - Out of wood [SUBL005]
22. Aeolho - Black Fish Dont Jump [dub]
23. Kaskaad - Polar Low [forthcoming Subline]
24. Faib - Invisible Light [forthcoming Subline]
25. RadRebbit - Untitled [forthcoming Subline]
26. Aeolho - Showdown at Sunrise [SUBL008]
27. Agbo - Forgotten Dreams [forthcoming Subline]
28. Moon Officer - Ash & Stone Cry [forthcoming Subline]
29. Dyneema & Encode - Oazis (Ssekk remix) [forthcoming Subline]
30. MilWalker - Outside Of The Sphere [forthcoming Subline]
31. SerJah500 - Spiritus [SUBL005]
32. TZR & Grym - Arclight [SUBL010]
33. DubZaP - Heavy Soul [dub]
34. NRanges & Uberman ft. Grotesk - ‘L’ in the WonderLand [SUBL006]
35. Necrodem - Soul Healer [SUBL013]
36. N.Killah - Ordered World [SUBL006]
37. Crispo - Spirit [SUBL004]
Let us know what you think of Subline Recordings interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.
Lara
On the 31st, Regulate presents DTA London takeover at Fire. With three arena’s of bass/dubstep/grime and UK Garage, this event set to be massive!
Advanced tickets can be bought for £10 here. For more information, check out the Facebook event page.
The past two years have been an interesting time for MakeItGoodand FatKidOnFire. It took a while to find our ‘feet’ in the series – but after a while we settled on the deep end of the 140bpm sound and have (on and off) stayed true to it in the past 100 features. So it made sense to celebrate reaching the 100th with two producers who, we think, are flying to flag for dubstep. None of this brostep or tearout rubbish – although both have their place in the genre that dubstep’s turned into – but with large, empty soundscapes and a bassline that’ll rattle windows out of their sockets. And that’s where Kaiju come in. We weren’t surprised when we heard that their debut release (it’s hard to believe that these guys have yet to see a release with the productions they’ve been pushing) was on Kryptic Minds’ imprint, Osiris Music. When the artists we originally had lined up for #100.2 pulled out, Kaiju stepped up to fill the spot – and fill the spot they did…
Who and what is Kaiju?
J: Kaiju is two people; me and Paul here.
P: Hi!
What got you into mixing, producing and supporting dubstep? How would you describe your production style?
J:We met via a dating agency and it went from there really…
P: We’ve both been producing for a little bit and met in the land of DnB. Both of us made stripped back bass-orientated stuff and thought we’d try some 140bpm about a year ago. We instantly found our style suited the deeper darker side of things and we really liked the space that was available dynamically in the genre – so started making more and more.
J: I worked at a certain record store and happened to meet Si from Kryptic Minds one day whilst on the job (so to speak), and gave him a CD. He was really into our stuff and we began to talk more about being part of the label and here we are today. But sound wise, I’d just say we like bass, the deeper the better.
How do you go about building your tunes – is there a process behind each one? What software do you guys use?
J: We live in different areas so most of our stuff is started over AIM and passed back and forth. With me there isn’t really a strict process when I sit down to make beats, sometimes I have a little idea but other times I will just throw sh!t at Logic and see what sticks.
P: I’m pretty much the same to be honest, the main difference being I use Sony Acid (which is a bit random but still does the job). But yeah, I usually find having too much of an idea in your head stops you experimenting; just find a sample/ sound you like, get a vibe going and run with it.
There’s a resurgence of producers pushing ‘the deep and dark’ dubstep sound. Do you think we’re lacking fresh sounds/ ideas on the deeper end of the 140bpm spectrum?
We definitely think that the whole dungeon thing has maybe enforced a type of sound in the deeper darker areas – but there’s so much awesome music out there at the moment that it’d be rude to say the scene’s lacking ideas. I think it kind of stems from people coming into the scene by listening to FKOFwits like Skrillex and then when they get bored they go exploring. So I spose the resurgence is a little bit of a backlash to popular trends perhaps?
You’ve seen support from quite possibly some of the finest artists in dubstep yet you’re still pretty new to most of us, what’s been your highlight so far?
It has to be the ‘Close Break’ thing at System. To have a tune rewound at such a legendary event was a very humbling experience. So big shout to Vivek for that one.
Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment – who’s tunes are setting the dances off?
What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going? Is dubstep ‘dead’?
J: I bloody hope it isn’t dead! The contents of my inbox contradicts that massively. To be completely honest I couldn’t tell you, as a sound it’s always evolving and taking ideas from different areas.
P: I think is in a good place at the moment, especially the deeper/ darker sound. So much good music out there if you’re willing to look for it…
Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to? Any plans for an album?
We’ve got our first release for Osiris Music UK on the 2nd of April, and we’re talking with Si about our next release but we just need to keep doing what we do. We’ve got things on the go with Thelem, Biome, and some other projects that we dont want to jinx for now! Just keep looking out for news from Osiris.
Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers for getting their music heard? Have you got any production tips for new producers getting started with the genre?
J: Patience is key. Keep making music even when you think no one is listening.
P: Just make something you would like to hear, and most of all make sure your tunes get to the right people, don’t send them everywhere.
Any shoutouts before we round things off?
There’s so many people that we’ve met in such a short space of time that I’m bound to forget people so I’ll keep it brief. Props to Si & Leon Kryptic and all the fam – and anyone that’s nodded their head to one of our tunes!
3 people (dead or alive) you’d go for a beer with?
J:
P:
What 2 items would you have with you in a zombie apocalypse?
J: Quarter of skunk and a shotty.
P: ^^^ This.
Is Godzilla real?
Probably not but there’s a little bit of him in all our tunes.
Perverse’s Brett put us in touch with Kaiju’s J when we were looking for a replacement #100.2 (chur for that, cuz) and we were amazed when J said they’d be up for doing a mix. And the mix is naughty. Without a doubt. Get it on the download, get it on the biggest stereo you can find and turn it up. This is what dubstep is all about.
Tracklist:
Let us know what you think of Kaiju’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.
Lara
So, our MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire features usually follows the form of an interview and mix, but today sees us do it a little differently. We have teamed up with the guys from North Base to give ONE lucky winner a PAIR of tickets to one of the following festivals (the winner can choose which festival they go to):
All you have to do is:
Competition will close at 2PM on Friday 13th April, so get entering!
For those of you who don’t know, the guys will be playing at all these festivals! North Base’s 140 BPM Bass Music is already receiving support from some of the most popular DJs on the planet, from Mary Anne Hobbs & Skream to Sub Focus & Jack Beats. Already carrying out remixes for popular artists Laidback Luke, Ms Dynamite, Kele le Roc, Labyrinth and others in the pipeline, this somewhat new act to the scene has infused Hardcore, Rave, Dubstep & much loved Old School styles into a Bass Music, unmatched in originality and untouched in calibre.
Make sure you check out North Base’s Facebook, Souncloud and Twitter. If you would like to book North Base, contact Nikki at Acute Promotions.
t’s been two years coming but today, two days before FatKidOnFire’s second birthday, the first of the #100 features is getting the upload. It’s been a long and amazing road! Without you guys reading, sharing and supporting what Wil from FatKidOnFire and I have been trying to do we wouldn’t be here. So thank you – and here’s to celebrating the next hundred!
Wil and I spent quite a lot of time trying to figure out who we could invite down to celebrate reaching the 100 features. We contacted loads of DJs and producers and didn’t hear back from many – or did with thanks but news they weren’t interested or had other commitments. But when I contacted dubstep MC, DJ and producer extraordinaire (and all round don) Beezy he replied saying he was up for it – so we got the ball rolling. And boy, did he deliver! Beezy’s 90m, floor-to-ceiling dub-filled mix has been doing the rounds across the world since I uploaded it yesterday – and when you hear it you’ll understand why. Read our interview with Beezy; follow him on SoundCloud, Facebook and Twitterand look out for #100.2 dropping this weekend!
[Thanks to Rory for the artwork]
Who is Beezy?
Beezy is just your run of the mill ordinary everyday bloke, who uses music as his form of output. I find it’s a great way to show emotion and to get things off your chest – from experiences to even something you’ve heard about. Just everyday life sh!t! From writing lyrics for a tune, sitting there trying to build one or DJing. They’re all great outlets. There are many sides to Beezy for the people to meet.
What got you into MCing and producing dubstep?
Well being a Croydon native most of my life and from knowing people like Hatcha, Cyrus, Mala, Sgt Pokes, Coki, N-Type, Benga and Skream before they even made a tune (or anyone knew their names) it was kind of hard to not follow suit. I started MCing back in the 1994 era of jungle just quoting other people’s lyrics – as you did in those days! I started writing my own stuff not too long after that and never looked back really. I didn’t get in the studio to actually record vocals until around 2000. Other than that, though, I used to do religious bedroom sets with all the guys above on the regular so I saw dubstep take shape before most (through the music they played and started to make themselves). Hanging around Big Apple Records was a big part of a lot of it as well. Hearing freshly-made dubs on a daily being tested on their system… Which later got given the label of what we call dubstep!
What software do you use to produce your tracks?
I’m kind of new to the whole production side of things. I do dabble on Fruity loops a bit. I find it easier though at the moment to do collaboration tunes with people to pick up tips and learn new things until I feel fully confident to actually finnish the many things I’ve started (haha)! DJ/ producer Lost has shown me a lot. Got to show love to him for that. Also to G Double (who gave me fruity loops in the first place)!
Turntables or CDJs?
Well in the state of the scene at the moment it’s got to be CDJs. Unless you have thousands of pounds you can spend on cutting dubs. On a weekly average, I probably receive (at least) 15 odd tunes freshly made from various producers. So do the math! I still do have a shed full of vinyl from my jungle days and a pair of 1200’s (although they’re also sitting in there gathering dust). I love having to dig the vinyl out for a mix. Takes me back to how things were. It’s a hard one because you can’t really determine who is an actually decent DJ, as most tunes are built around the 140bpm marker – so you don’t have to do much on CDJs. Just keep the percentage the same! I would love to test every DJ to a vinyl mix. See who’s who then!
How long have you producing and DJing?
Jeez… Now your going to make me sound old! I remember the person who taught me the basics to mixing all those years ago (producer F1) – a close mate of mine had a pair of belt drives and I learned off them in his bedroom probably around 1995. From then I never looked back. I loved it. I was frequently down the record shop buying records when I had a spare pound note. The thing is I never actually had a pair of decks up until a few years back. I used to carry my records around everywhere on the off chance I could go have a mix around someones house (true story)! I did a tonne of house parties and club appearances, with a dabble of pirate radio, over the years. I never took DJing really seriously until a couple of years back; when I realised being a vocalist in this scene (and knowing pretty much everyone) I could actually get tunes before most people. And I do really love DJing. Probably more so than MCing live if I’m honest. I’m more of an artist vocalist. Not to say i cant hold my own at a gig on the mic haha!
What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?
Cor… That’s a hard one. I’m not sure if I can pin point that one. I really like the small dingy dark gigs – the ones that are proper intimate, where the crowd are hanging off your every word or every tune. Those ones are special. In terms of DJing with another DJ? That’s hard. I’ve done B2Bs with so many good DJs over the years. I have a lot of fun doing B2Bs with my label mate and mukka Lost. We have a blast at gigs and doing radio. They’re funny shows to catch! Most of my DJ heroes though would honestly be jungle ones. Would have to be one of those guys. I’m too much of a critic in dubstep. I would compete too much! Unless I was playing with the likes of Youngsta. Then you’re FKOFed! You can’t get half the dubs he has…
Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?
This has to be in a Dj’s perspective to what i like to play otherwise its to hard to narrow down to five cos i could go all day with this list. 10 would of been better. lol. im gonna put a couple producers 2gther who have the same work effort to help a bit more.
The last one I’m going to have to just leave open cos I want to put down so many people, I really couldn’t just pick 5. There is some really good talent coming through at the moment; I haven’t even delved into the more hype producers I’m feeling.
What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?
Hard to tell really ‘cos it swings round in roundabouts. You’ve got a lot of outside influence I see being incorporated into dubstep. Dubstep just seems to be an umbrella nowadays for anything around 140bpm – but I see things getting bigger and better for sure. The club scene is getting stronger and bigger. You’ve got Dubstep DJs on mainstream radio. Some are signed to major labels. Yeah man. It’s looking pretty decent! There is some really interesting music out there right now which I’m loving – as a DJ/ vocalist as well as just being a ordinary listener.
Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?
Where to start! I was talking with the HENCH bossman yesterday and I think the words are to slow down… I’ve got a album with producers D*Minds called ‘The Filth’, which has a live element to it in terms of production. The drums are played in, some the guitars are. There’s something for everyone on this album and it’s definitely going to shock a few people. Can’t wait for peoples reactions on this one. This album is the first to hit. Then mid-2012 you should then see a compilation album from me which will be one more for the DJs. Tunes where I mainly use my 2 verse formula (before the main drops) like with what I did on ‘Snake Eyes’ and ‘Dark Ages’ on HENCH. I’ve also got a third album ready with a producer named Dubface (together we form Symptoms of Experience) which is mainly based around the 170bpm range. This album is very outside the box. Very original and is full of emotion and depth – it’s quite a personal project. Other than that [there’s more?!] I’ve got a few 12” single releases due this year as well. The first one is with Dream (The Sextape due on HENCH). I’ve got a release with Surge on Wheel and Deal and I’ve been (and am constantly) writing new material. I’ve got new tracks with Jakes, Lost, Eddie K, Mensah, Minus, Perverse, Demon, TMSV, N-Type, Haze, Megalodon (watch for these guys), Hizzleguy, Taiki and Nulight, Requake… Plus loads more! There’s enough Beezy to go around for a while to be fair!
Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/Producers/Vocalists?
FKOF the politics off of thinking you’ve got to follow some suit because it’s the new trend. Do what feels right to you! I’ve tried and failed so many times – you’ve just got to keep on grafting. As me mukka 24K used to say to me “you’ve got to be in it to win it”! Don’t hold back or restrict yourself in anyway. Say what you want and do what you want. Just be yourself bottom line (as typical as that sounds).
Any shoutouts?
My HENCH famaly first off – for getting my name heard again! Me brother from another Lost. My Stateside homies Megalodon ‘cos they’re FKOFing hungry for it right now! Fish from Rood FM ‘cos he is one safe diamond geezer! Also my Wheel and Dealers.. N-tizzle for always supporting! Me mukkas from the other side of the planet Perverse! GetDarker crew as always – Darkside, Cyrus, Ash and Bo! Distance and the Chestplaters! Demon and the MUD gang! J:Kenzo for simply being a badman on the production and a genuine sound bloke. Content for being the slag he is and displaying his love and effection (love ya too haha)! All the Belgium crew for showing love and having me over there all the time! Any producer/DJ who is making and playing good music right now always gets a shout out as well – you know who you are!
Beezy’s interview is one of my favourites from the 100 we’ve released so far – and his mix follows suit. There’s not much I can say about this that hasn’t been said already. The tracklist says it all – so I’ll not delay any longer. Get on the download, get on the sharing, get on the listening!
Track list:
1. Rakoon - Lost Connection (dub)
2. Perverse - Charade (dub)
3. Killawatt - Aurora Flux (dub)
4. Antics - Temple of Doom (dub)
5. Demon - Alter Ego (dub)
6. Content - Ancestral (dub)
7. Twisted - Desolation (dub)
8. Sleeper & District - Terraforned (forthcoming Chestplate)
9. Occult & Content - Untitled (dub)
10. Anex - Corrupt (forthcoming Redshift)
11. Perverse ft. Beezy - Cross Examination (dub)
12. Perverse - Thalamus (dub)
13. Congi - Cult (dub)
14. Eleven8 - Sweeter Things (remix) (dub)
15. Sleeper & District - Cobra (dub)
16. Biome - Persepolis (forthcoming M.U.V)
17. Demon ft. Beezy - Dementia (dub)
18. NDread - Reservoir Underdogs (dub)
19. Catacombs - East (dub)
20. Thelem - Cathetus (dub)
21. Content & Beezy - Reprobate (dub)
22. Killawatt & Core - Akusala (dub)
23. Twisted & Rakoon - Visitors (dub)
24. LX One - Losing Control (dub)
25. Razor Rekta - Tugboat (dub)
26. Truth - Skitzo (dub)
27. Perverse - Iceman (forthcoming Artikal)
28. Anex - Drowsy (dub)
29. Content & Pheral - Dissonance (dub)
30. Sleeper & District - Colony (forthcoming Chestplate)
31. Demon ft. Beezy - Ramification (dub)
32. Tallan - Guardian (dub)
33. Demon - Sgt Slaughter (dub)
34. DCult & TZR - Prisoner (dub)
35. Versa & Rowl - Backwards Never (dub)
36. Lost - Greed (dub)
Let us know what you think of Beezy’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.
Lara
As far as MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire features go, it’s been pretty quietly recently. But if you’ve noticed what number today’s is, you’ll understand why – yes, the next one to get the upload will be the first #100. And let’s just say the two mixes/ interviews are going to blow you away! But before we celebrate reaching #100, we’ve got the very awesome Red J involved for a feature. It’s hard to find a more enthusiastic supporter of the sound that we’ve been pushing, and Red J’s mix (which you’ll find after the interview) is testament to the talent he’s got on the decks…
Who is Red J?
Music grabbed me from an early age. I grew up listening to punk, soul, reggae (courtesy of the great On the Wire show, with Lee Perry and Steve Barker, on Radio Lancashire), and got into the dance thing through my brother, who would bring back mad mixtapes from wherever he’d been. I started collecting and mixing jungle in about ‘95/ ‘96 when I was 13, and went from there. I discovered a love of sound system through the massive Shaka sessions, back in about 1999. I’m part of the mighty Underground Roots Sound System, Trailer Trash Collective and the Subversion crew. You can find me most weekends making some speaker or other vibrate!
What got you into mixing dubstep? What’s your style – big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?
I went to play at a dance in Sheffield in 2006, ran by the R8 Records crew (big up lads!), and was amazed by this music, which seemed to transfer all the atmosphere and intensity of the music I loved into a slower, “lurchier” tempo… And it all went from there! Musically, I try to play music that I really enjoy and try to read the crowd (I also like mixing between styles), to keep the crowd on their feet.. I’ll try to drop some older tunes as well, as too many people can seem to get lost in the whole “entirely brand new fresh tune” ethic a bit too much. You have to remember the classics, you know? I like to try and keep it rolling along – and try to have a bit of contrast in the mixes…
What software do you use to produce your tracks?
I’ve only just started producing at the moment, but am using FruityLoops and Ableton. We’ll see how that goes! The only track I’ve ever really finished (with my man Deadcode) opens my mix for MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire.
Turntables or CDJs?
Both. I love my vinyl, and try to get as much of it as possible, and play it out. But sometimes, it’s digital only – or you can’t get it to plate for either time or money reasons. I have no problem with digital or CD, though the warmth of analogue always seems to win through for me.
How long have you been DJing for?
Since I was 18 I suppose, so about 11 years on and off. Been a music lover all my life though. The anticipation when you hear that run-in groove…!
What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?
Best gig would have to be Notting Hill carnival with Positive Sound System in 2002… Thousands of people, an amazing intense atmosphere, a huge sound system and jerk chicken! Dubstep-wise, it would have to be Silkie and Razor Rekta back at POWAH in Huddersfield (alongside Formless and NoMan). Amazing lads, and both of ‘em so talented yet humble… Big things always from the AntiSocial crew! Dream gig? Would be great to play alongside some of my heroes. Distance, Mala, Cyrus, Youngsta (again), Author. On a separate note looking forward to hosting Ghost Note and Perverse (amongst others!) later this year. And would love to play with Vex’d sometime, he’s a genius!
Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?
Too many more to mention, obviously! Mala, Cyrus, RSD, Quest/ Silkie, Killawatt, Thelem, Pistonsbeneath etc., the scene is about to blow up!
What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?
Everywhere! The scope of what’s coming through at the moment is truly great. From the proper darkness to the new garage sound; Mala’s more latin-driven things, from the ”filth” (i.e. Coki, Goth Trad, Demon kind of filth!) to the sublime melodic stuff (Phaeleh, Forensics, J=One); it’s all going OFF! And that’s not to mention the more tech driven stuff (Boddika, Scuba etc). I’m excited, really excited about where it’s all going to go… Dubstep, in my opinion, is getting better and better.
Any forthcoming releases/upcoming shows we can look forward to?
Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?
Be polite and be patient. Always believe in the records you play, don’t play something because you think it will move a crowd. A good track is still a good track, regardless of age! Listen to your beats on as large a system as you can before passing a beat out. And try not to give it to everyone… And the best way to get a gig? Put on a night yourself!
Any shoutouts?
Yes yes! Out to all the Subversion crew, the Beatherders massive, all the fam at Irie Vibes, Ring The Alarm, Trailer Trash, Bushrocker, Stumblefunk, Herbal sessions, Wax (out to Brunks, Compa, Persia and Domino), all the Shotta massive. Out to Konflict Kartel, out to Daddy Jaytee, the IMPs, all the Hudds massive (out to City Skank, NoMan, Formless, Mutiny, Rush, Lazarus, Venuq, Ras Sis, Iko, Daddy Ken, and anyone I forget)! Massive shout to Ghost Note, Perverse, Tallan, Tellez, Arkotypes, Reaction, Neon, Surva, Anex, G-a, Congi, Zerg, Nanobytes, Epoxy and Matrix, Edd Legg, Domb and all the Accrington massive; Trubble, Bong. Finally out to anyone I’ve forgotten (sorry), and to all the promoters, fans, DJs and producers who make what I do so enjoyable… oh and out to MakeItGood and FKOF !
Red J didn’t hang about in his hour long mix, you’ll find a solid selection of unreleased material from some of ourfavourite artists – as well as a range of tunes that have been on solid rotation for a while now. Hit the play button, grab the free download and let us know what you think!
Track list:
1. Red J + Dedacode - Tokyo (dub)
2. Perverse - Skylark
3. NoMan - Engulf
4. Compa - Cold Weather (forthcoming Area Recordings)
5. Reaction - untitled track (dub)
6. Anex - Formlessness (dub)
7. Cauze - Untitled
8. Epoxy - Choices (dub)
9. Formless - Paradox
10. SkinE - Reveal (Compa refix)
11. Eleven8 - Catch Your Breath (dub)
12. Domb - Sub Love (dub)
13. John Matrix - Cyclops (dub)
14. Perverse - Tepidus
15. Ghost Note - Frequencies (dub)
16. Coki - Serious (Trubble vocal edit) (dub)
17. My Nu Leng - Fireflies
18. Aliens - Go In Hard (Zerg Refix) (dub)
19. Surva - End Run (dub)
20. Congi - Cryptic
21. G-a - Instantaneous
22. Nanobyte - Wrong Path
23. Tallan - Before You Speak (dub)
Let us know what you think of Red J’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.
Lara
This Friday see’s TRIX take over Hidden (London) for a night of exceptional electronica. As part of the FOUND series, and having thrown some wicked night in the past, this one is set to be huge!
We are offering the chance for ONE person to win TWO tickets to Friday’s event. All you need to do is:
The winner will be emailed on Friday, so get entering!
For more information, check out the facebook page. Those who would like guaranteed entry, advanced tickets can be bought here for £10, and there will be M.O.T.D.
Lara
On the 23rd, That Dubstep Night invite you down to Digital (Newcastle) to celebrate their first birthday! With a massive line up, and a history of throwing wicked events, I can promise you that this one is not to be missed!
Advanced tickets are £9 + BF and are available to buy here. There will be M.O.T.D. For more information, check out the facebook page, follow the guys on twitter and if you’re in the area or don’t have any plans, get yourselves down to this and join in with the celebrations!
Lara
There are just two features left before we reach the big #100 in the MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire series. The 98th feature is with Birmingham’s Laney – who first caught our attention last November when he sent us a few tracks. Laney doesn’t stick with one sub/genre and his productions (and mixes, as you’ll discover later) are an amazing journey across the current bass music soundscape…
Who is Laney?
Laney AKA Phil Lane is an artist/ producer from South Birmingham, West Midlands.
What got you into mixing and producing bass music? How would you describe your production style?
Jungle, DnB, and hip-hop all inspired me to start producing music – but before that bands like Death From Above 1979 & Lightning Bolt got me into soundsystem bass. My production style is all over the place; from Arp & 808 infused beats to funky/ garage rollers & grime to dancehall & reggae.
What software do you use to produce your tracks?
Mainly Logic and Reason. Sometimes Cubase.
Turntables or CDJs?
CDJs.
How long have you producing and DJing?
Producing around 5 years DJing about 3.
What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?
Most memorable gig has got to be playing after Youngsta at night called Dubmatic a couple of years back; it was going off! If I could spin with anyone, it’s got to be Sir David Rodigan.
Who are your top 5 producers at the moment; and why?
What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?
I think there’s a big emergence of sound taking place currently. Funky, grime and techno are evolving and merging with the genre and the boomer bass sound of the US is definitely spreading over here – it’s a major cross-breed.
Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?
Yes 3 EPs planned so far this year on… Slime Recordings (this month), Lu10, and Freshmore. Also look out for a releases on Subfreq, Stunn & Shock and remixes on Lu10 & Dank N Dirty later this year.
Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?
Produce whenever where ever.
Any shootouts?
Shouts to Jayohkay, Toni Morreti, Bravo, Sans, P0gman, Made, Sines, Artifact, Sarah, Juvaman, Esstee & Stuart, Deesee, Sashwat, & everyone involved with le lieu!
Laney’s somewhat succinct interview is accompanied by the following 40 odd minutes of pure audio greatness. His mix for MakeItGood and FatKidOnFire is bright, bubbly and plain damn awesome – and features a great selection of subgenres of bass music from a variety of producers. As always, grab the free download and hit Laney up on Facebook if you’re feeling it!
Track list:
1. Sully - Let You Go
2. Dubbel Dutch - Darq
3. Jook 10 - The Beginning
4. Blawan - Getting Me Down
5. Guido & Baobinga - Bumba
6. Bok Bok - Hyperpass
7. Lucid - Run’s The World
8. Redlight- Zariah
9. Girl Unit vs Kingdon ft. Ciena - Ride
10. Addison Groove - This Is It
11. Obey Unit - Fuck That Wobble
12. DJ SX - 9.37am
13. Kid Kalifah - Taylor Gang
14. Laney - Bu Na Na
15. Silencer - Treble
16. Laney ft. Bravo - Futureshock
17. C.R.S.T - Keep Holding On (Calski remx)
18. Killawatt- Sidewinder (Ipman remix)
19. Laney - Old George
20. Sans - Heiress
21. Optik - Orange Lights
22. Tennis Rodman - Purple?
Let us know what you think of Laney’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.
Lara
