MakeItGood

With the ever-increasing coverage from our features, comes a higher chance for new artists to get heard. WIl (FatKidOnFire) and I are trying to do our bit to support the upandcomers, and we’ll gladly continue to do so with the feature series. As we slowly make our way to the big 100 (with 58 of the features coming in 2011), it looks like the series is here to stay. MIG x FKOF #92 is with Nottingham’s Gutcha – Arion’s music is a refreshing blend of dark basslines, space and a more uptempo energy that’s sometimes lacking in the dungeon tracks. He hit us up a couple of weeks back offering up a pretty special free download with an interview and so here we are…

Who is Gutcha?

Arion Oates, from Nottingham, aged 20. There’s no real meaning behind the name Gutcha, it just sounded like the music I wanted to make in a word.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style – big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

I’ve always been into recording music –ever since my early teens. I used to record my guitar plugged straight into the computer’s mic input onto Audacity. At college, my interest in computer music was taking over my life and thats where I found a passion for dubstep; it was the first genre of dance music which I could connect with. My style combines dark basslines and heavy percussion with a slightly hypnotic edge to the sound in general. I’m really keen on space and ambience but I also like a lot of energy in music. I wouldn’t categorise my music under the ‘dungeon sound’ but it’s not far off! You will hopefully see what I mean with the exclusive free track attached to this interview [find it below]!

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

Logic Pro 9 and reason 4, as well as the odd zoot. Sugary drinks are also good.

Turntables or CDJs?

Turntables-ish, I’m a big vinyl fan but I use traktor scratch.

How long have you producing and DJing?

I’ve been producing dubstep for about 4-5 years now, but it has only been in the last year and a bit where i have truly found ‘my sound’ and started getting my name out there. DJing has been in the last year, but I will always see myself more as a producer than a DJ.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

I’ve enjoyed every gig no matter the venue size. I would love to DJ along side N-Type, he’s a badman on the decks!

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. ?kkord – Who? What? Where? Those 3 tracks on the soundcloud are just amazing. Want to hear more!
2. Distance has been delivering brilliant tunes recently.
3. J:kenzo, quite an obvious one. Every tune he brings out is fire.
4. Compa, he’s got his own sounds and its darkness on a next level.
5. Sbtrkt, I really enjoy the production and song writing qualities.

What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?

It’s interesting, in quite a few cases dubstep has become a dirty word to people, what with all the commercial success from some artists who have no influence from the original dubstep sound. I don’t like it when you see people label their dubstep music as ‘bass music’. It’s soulless but sadly it seems more and more people associate dubstep with the big american dance producers, rather than a dark smokey night at FWD». Of course commercialisation happens to every genre of music. In the future, I would like to see what new genres dubstep will start e.g. how Dubstep came from UK Garage..

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

I’ve just had ‘Gutcha & Sunyata’ released earlier this month on Phucked Recordings. 13th February will be my 2nd EP; ‘Dark Visions/ Sativa Indica’ out on Dubstrict Records. This release will be the first release in the new series from Dubstrict. The label has only started off but all ready making a name for itself with the sounds of Legend4ry, Porta, Coffi and Trashbat to come. I’ve also got a track that’s part of the first Keep Deep EP, got a great selection of producers on that and that’s about it for now. I am, however, working on my next EP. Two tracks are almost done, with another two to go. Keep ‘em peeled!

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

The best advice I can give is to do your own thing. Find your own individual sound.

Any shoutouts?

Shout out to the Nottingham crew, my greb friends in Sadistic Defilement, Anex, Congi, Fable and the Dubstrict family as well!

Sampling one of the world’s coolest granddads, Sir David Rodigan, Gutcha’s ‘Kingston’ is empty space, tribal beats and a seriously big bassline. This is one of my favourite FKOF free downloads. Grab the free .WAV to find out why!

 Click to DOWNLOAD

Let us know what you think of Gutcha’s interview and free track via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

On Friday 3rd February; MIG, FKOF and GetDarker open the doors to one of London’s best venues, Cable, for a night celebrating the launch of the ‘This is Dubstep 2012’ album with the deepest and darkest sounds from a selection of the genre’s finest talents.

GetDarker’s very own Darkside, along with dubstep pioneers Plastician, Coki, Kryptic Minds, Cyrus and upandcoming legends J:Kenzo, Phaeleh and Compa promise to destory the dancefloor of Cable’s main room.

MakeItGood and FatKidOnFire will be tearing up the venue’s 800- capacity bar with five of the scene’s rising stars; Benton, Killawatt, Thelem, Syte and Sparxy.

Tickets from: Ticketweb or UKF Live

If you are around on Friday and don’t have any plans, come down and party with us! We can guarantee you a wicked night! For more info, visit the Facebook page.

There’s reason to celebrate reaching another first for the MIG x FKOF series. Skinz is the first artist to feature, hailing from the depths of Serbia. We found his bits on SoundCloud pretty damn awesome – so got chatting on Twitter and Facebook and here we are. His mix for MakeItGood and FatKidOnFire is an astounding selection of deep and dark dubs and releases, well worth the free download (after the interview as always)!

Who is Skinz?

Skinz is Aleksa Smiljković, a 16 year old dubstep DJ/ Producer from Serbia.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

Well, I heard Youngsta on Rinse.fm and thought “WOW! I want to know how to do that”! I was impressed so I started to buy releases from Chestplate Records and Osiris Music. I have all of the Kryptic Minds releases. I then started to practice mixing and day by day I got better. I then decided to try producing my own music – I’m not so good at it as at mixing – but I’m getting better. With regards to my style, I prefer deep, dark and minimal dubstep (artists like Biome, Kryptic Minds, J:Kenzo etc).

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

At first, I was using FL Studio but then moved to Reason and Ableton. Right now I’m using both of them.

Turntables or CDJs?

I prefer turntables but it’s really hard to find vinyl in Serbia so I’m using CDJs.

How long have you producing and DJing?

I’ve been producing music for about 2 years now, and mixing around 2 and half.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

I’ve only had a few gigs so far and I think the best was in my town at a local festival that happens once a year. If I had a chance to DJ alongside anyone it would definitely be Youngsta ‘cause he always has a lot of new stuff and he’s great at what he’s doing.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. Biome
2. J:Kenzo
3. Kryptic Minds
4. Jack Sparrow 
5. Perverse

… Because they have that deep sound that I like.

What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?

I really don’t know. People now mix dubstep with metal, electrohouse and a lot of other genres; I really don’t think that’s good for dubstep. It was much better when it was underground music.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

Unfortunately no, I’m still looking for record labels [labels, get in touch]!

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Just keep practicing and if you love what you are doing, you’ll make it.

Our jaw dropped when we first listened to Aleksa’s mix – it features some of the best tracks around. We recommend checking his SoundCloud out for some of his original tracks, he may only have been producing a while but they’re damn good. Well worth a listen! Grab the free download and let Aleksa know if you’re feeling it!

Click to DOWNLOAD

Track list:

1. Anex - Counter It 
2. DJ Madd - New Reallity 
3. Jack Sparrow - Dune 
4. Kryptic Minds - Wasteland 
5. Skream - Abstruse 
6. V.I.V.E.K. - Soundman 
7. Eskmo and The Antiserum - Monstahs 
8. De Niro,Y,Estel Luz - Gold (Jack Sparrow remix) 
9. Icicle & Distance - Exale 
10. Biome - Propaganda 
11. Nanobyte - The Wrong Path 
12. DJ Madd - The Life You Chose 
13. J:Kenzo - Ruff House 
14. J:Kenzo - The Roteks

Let us know what you think of Skinz’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

For those of you who’ve been following MakeItGood over the past year or so, you’ll have noticed the MakeItGood x FKOF series taking off – in 2011 we released 58(!) interviews and mixes/ free downloads. If the past few weeks are anything to go by, the next 12 months are going to be much more of the same (if not better). So today, just in case you didn’t believe me, there’s the following interview and fantastic 120-140bpm mix from Essex’s PanLeft. We hit him up for a spot on the series and he has definitely not disappointed…

Who is PanLeft?

PanLeft is a 24 Year old Music Producer hailing from Chelmsford Essex, producing tracks influenced from various genres of Electronic Dance Music, such as house, garage & dubstep.

What got you into mixing and producing bass music? How would you describe your production style?

I think as my brother is a DnB producer & DJ I was always quite inspired by what he was up to. But saying that; I’ve never made anything above 140bpm! My productions to date are quite varied – I write tracks between about 120 & 140 bpm. Often I like to include some ‘off grid’ drum patterns, some pads, maybe an arpeggio or two, and there is definitely always a lot of bass.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

I mainly use Ableton Live 8 and Soundforge 10. I have used Reason 3.0 in the past as well. After making the switch to Ableton nearly 2 years ago, I think I’ve watched every production masterclass on YouTube, read every article in the production magazines… I think I like it a bit too much as it goes! I create a lot of my tracks live using my Akai APC40 and play a lot of the instrumental parts live using a midi keyboard, and often record some guitar parts in as well. I’ve also borrowed quite a lot of hardware over the last year or so, from friends or my brother, such as a Roland SH-201, a MicroKorg and Roland 303. However I think most of my tracks have come from the use of VSTs! I would love to start collecting and using more hardware though.

Turntables or CDJs?

I would love to say turntables & the use of vinyl, but I think I simply missed the boat. By the time I was getting into producing music, CDJs had already become club standard and for someone who was just getting into the scene, buying a few MP3s and burning them to a blank cd was a lot cheaper than buying everything on vinyl (not to mention a lot less effort to carry around). Having said that, I’m already moving away from the use of CDJs. I put together a lot of my sets in Ableton Live now, using my APC40. I admit it doesn’t make me a ‘true DJ’, but with Serato & Traktor being so wide spread now days, who really is. The use of Ableton for DJing means I can create my own FX chains, trigger loops and do live edits. Which makes it much more unique in my opinion.

How long have you producing and DJing?

I started off writing music in a band when I was about 16, with two other friends. We started to become more inspired by EDM and started adding synthesizers and playing along to pre-programmed backing tracks. It never really went anywhere but it was a lot of fun and I would love to do it again. About the same time the band started to fizzle out, the guy who owned the studio (now a good friend and someone who I still make music with) started inviting us to stay after practice and try our hand at using software to create music. For me, it could be a lot more personal, plus I could work on music in my bedroom, so I felt I didn’t have to wait until a Friday Night rehearsal to make music. We finished a few tracks together and it was good learning curve. For me, it was always produce tracks first and get DJ bookings after. So my DJing experiences are pretty limited _ I’d say I’ve been DJing for about a year; only a few clubs and parties. I do really enjoy the buzz of it so am now on the hunt for more bookings, now I feel I have a few tracks of my own that I could play out at least.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

It’s a bit of a strange one. At the end of last year I went travelling around some parts of South East Asia. I turned up to a club on one of the islands off Thailand and asked whether they needed any DJs for that night. They said for me to bring my CDs and they might be able to squeeze me in..at this stage I had no CDs! I made a mad dash to the convenience store and started frantically burning CDs using my laptop. I didn’t have a permanent maker so had no idea what tracks were on what CD! I ended playing to about 300 people in this bar that sprawled out onto the beach, and into the sea. There were locals spinning fire sticks and all sorts. Was mad and something I’ll never forget! If I could DJ alongside anyone I think it might have to be Joy Orbison. I have been inspired quite a lot by him over the past couple of years.

Who are your top 5 producers at the moment; and why?

1. Joy Orbison - When I first heard ‘Hyph Mngo’ I was blown away. As I said above I’m really inspired by his tracks, plus seeing him at Glastonbury and Fabric were incredible.
2. Deadboy - Again I really like his sound unfortunately still haven’t had a chance to see him DJ.
3. Four Tet - ‘There is Love in You’ is a great album and whilst the whole of Glastonbury was watching Stevie Wonder, I went to see Four Tet in a small, dark but intimate Dance Tent. It was probably the highlight of the Festival for me! I would love to adapt his style of playing live.
4. Burial - His use of sampling is amazing – and how many dubstep producers get nominated for a Mercury Prize? Truly amazing. Would love to see this guy play live. Not sure that will ever happen.
5. There’s a few more in the bass music scene I could chose from, James Blake, Fantastic Mr Fox or Jamie XX. But I am going to chose the DnB producer Rockwell. His Dnb fascinates me. It’s seems ridiculously complicated and well layered. People should check out a mix called ‘Data Transmission Podcast 115’ I think I’ve listened to this mix so many times I’ve worn out the MP3!

What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

I really liked the early sounds of dubstep; when it was simply Drums, Bass, a few nice samples and maybe a catchy melody. When it went very wobbly and that mid range bass sound really took off, I kind have switched off and got bored. As long as people keep writing good tunes then it will stay alive. I must admit, I prefer certain other producers adaptations of the sound, such as SBTRKT & Fantastic Mr Fox, who are finding new ways to explore dubstep influences, this will really keep it fresh!

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

At present all of my tracks are unsigned. I have been in discussions with a few labels about signing a few but as yet nothing has materialised. I will carry on making tunes, creating bootlegs and mixes as I enjoy it so much. I’ve got a few things in the pipeline.

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

If you enjoy it, then keep at it. I would never suggest someone gets into DJ’ing or producing thinking they are going to get signed over night and be playing Fabric the next week. Learn a few tips from other producers, some tutorials are good ways to get yourself going - however being as original as possible is pretty important.

PanLeft’s mix is a superb 120-140bpm journey of all things awesome. We’ve had it on the stereo since Jett sent it over a few weeks back and it’s still as fresh now as when we first heard it. Grab the free download and hit Jett up on Twitter or SoundCloud if you enjoy it!

Click to DOWNLOAD

Track list:

1. MK - Burning 
2. 11:11 - Tourist Trap (Jamie Jones remix) 
3. PanLeft - Kingscross 
4. Joy Orbison - Jels 
5. Darksky - Armour 
6. Koreless - 4D 
7. PanLeft - Electrika 
8. Wild Combination - Palace (Mono4 remix) 
9. Burial - Vial 
10. Kavsrave - Deluded 
11. PanLeft - HRTS 
12. Synkro - Inhale 
13. XXXY - You Always Start It 
14. Nicolas Jaar - What My Last Girlfriend Put Me Through (PanLeft edit)

Let us know what you think of PanLeft’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

Every so often, a dub or two end up in our inbox. Nine times out of ten, we love what we hear and a bit of dialogue starts with whoever’s sent the bits over to us – and occasionally, the artist in question ends up here featuring in a MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire. That’s exactly what happened when Slaven sent us a couple of tracks back in October. We were pretty impressed with what we heard and got talking. Luckily for us, and you guys, he’s been kind enough to give away two free tracks to accompany his MIG x FKOF interview – and keep an eye on his SoundCloud account as there are a free downloads on there too…

Who is Slaven?

Slaven is actually my name, a friend of mine thought it’d be cool to use as a producer alias so I gave it a try and it just sort of stuck.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style – big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

I started out listening to Pendulum, the Prodigy and artists like Deadmau5, a while later one of my friends showed me the UKF podcasts. I downloaded almost all of them and got more and more into the dubstep/ drum and bass scene, listening to artists like Datsik and Flux Pavillion. I thought I’d give it a go so I downloaded the Fruity Loops demo and started trying to make filthy dubstep tracks with bit of help from some YouTube tutorials. After that I found out about GetDarker and realised that the darker, deeper vibes were what dubstep’s really about, so now mainly I produce sub-heavy dark tracks; although I’m a fan of all sorts of music and I experiment with almost every genre. Mixing just came from a love of the genre really.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

At the moment I’m using Reason 4.

Turntables or CDJs?

CDJs. I’ve never actually had the opportunity to use turntables, which is a shame. I’d definitely like to give them a go.

How long have you producing and DJing?

I’d say I’ve been producing seriously for about a year now, maybe just under. Before then it was mainly just messing around on the Fruity Loops demo, trying to make sounds.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

It’s a tough choice really, there are loads of people i’d love to gig alongside but it would probably have to be either Youngsta or Biome. I think that’s about as close as I can narrow it down!

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. Top is probably Biome, as he’s been a pretty big influence in a number of my tracks and he’s just got the heavy, dark tracks down perfectly,
2. After that, Noisia - they’re just amazing producer’s really,
3. Koan Sound – because they managed to produce a totally original sound I’ve never heard before, and not much has come close,
4. 16 Bit – I saw a set of theirs once at Stink Like Sock and it was just insane, as is their music,
5. And then it has to be Burial – his sounds are also really dark and he’s influenced my production quite a lot.

What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

It’s hard to say really because people seem to be coming up with a new twist on the genre every day, but for me the darker side of dubstep will always be the better one!

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

No releases yet, all my tracks are unsigned but I do give away tracks as free download pretty often.

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

My advice would be just to stick with it and keep trying. And of course, listen to as much music as possible!

The two free downloads from Slaven are a bit different; ‘Militia’ is a tribal drums tip and ‘Circles’ is a stomper guaranteed to get any dance going off. Both are available as a 320 free download, so get grabbing and hope you enjoy ‘em!

Click to DOWNLOAD

Click to DOWNLOAD

Let us know what you think of Slaven’s interview and free tunes via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

Today sees another brand new MakeItGood x FKOF feature see the light of day, this time with one of the most skilled dubstep/ grime/ garage DJs we’ve ever had the pleasure of listening to – Macabre Unit and Stink Like Sock’s T_!. T’s 4 deck mixes are the stuff of legend and he’s recently been recognised for his technical ability in this year’s Dubstepforum Awards. Read his interview for MIG x FKOF, listen to the 4 deck ‘Nominated’ mix embedded below and if you’re feeling it all be sure to vote for T_! – we will be…

Who is T_!?

I am a 27 year old DJ based in North Hertfordshire. I DJ for legendary outfit Macabre Unit, and co-run the Stink Like Sock and Bass Box events in Cambridge alongside Swiss and Daddy Genius. I play dubstep predominantly but having grown up DJing through the garage and grime scenes, I still like it throw some of that into the mix. I focus on high energy, technical mixing across up 4 decks.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style – big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

Pirate radio, and listening to tape packs and hearing EZ FKOF up a rave, I wanted that. I loved the darker sound of Garage, and after getting a job in record shop Big Drum Records in Stevenage, I got to feed my addiction for the darker stuff straight off the distribution sheet. Ghost Records, early Horsepower stuff, Bingo stuff. Dubstep was just a natural progression of the music I love. Macabre Unit tunes used to get run at FWD» in the early days, a lot of their early beats took the grime template a bit further, and certainly brought the bass. Dubstep for me is about big basslines. I prefer that sound, that what it’s about. Whilst a bit of filth is good, I like to build sets based around the eyes down, darker stuff… and throw a bit of classic dubstep, grime and garage in. It’s all about being in the dance and dropping something people ain’t expecting, making them go “What the FKOF?!” Production-wise, Raff (Demon) is going to get me rolling on Ableton soon. I’ve got so many crazy ideas. I can’t wait to get them down. Production is definitely a string that will be added to the bow in 2012.

Turntables or CDJs?

I prefer turntables, but use both in sets. You can’t beat the feel of playing a record. I wish clubs would make more of an effort to maintain their turntables. CDJs offer alot of versatility and you can pull some crazy stuff off on them; they’ve definitely overtaken the turntable as most DJ’s weapon of choice.

How long have you DJing?

I started DJing on a belt drives in Feb 2000. I began collecting vinyl in 1998. It’s mad to think I’ve been behind the decks for 12 years.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

I’ve been lucky enough to DJ alongside some of my peers I respect the most in dubstep, grime and garage over the last decade. I’d still like to share a flyer alongside the legendary John Peel, unfortunately something I’ll never achieve. Playing at Garage Nation alongside EZ when I was 16 was a big deal for me, certainly one of the most memorable. All of the Stink Like Sock events we’ve done at The Junction in Cambridge have been some of the ‘Best Gigs’; the feeling of co-ordinating nights on that scale and representing the artist we’re passionate about is a big deal for me.

You’ve recently been nominated in the ‘Best DJ’ category in the DubstepForum Awards (congratulations by the way!) – was it something you were expecting?

It’s an absolute honour. I have huge respect for all the other DJs I’m alongside in that list. 2011 was certainly a very productive year, but being nominated wasn’t something I expected. It’s nice to know I’m making an impact and I’ve always appreciated the fact that dubstep on the whole had fans who appreciated technical mixing. You only have to look at some of the biggest names in our scene to acknowledge that. It’s a wonderful opportunity to put my name in front of people and be able to show them what I’m about.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. Demon – consistent as FKOF, absolute veteran. He’s stuck with what he believes in since I first met him and not compromised what he’s about for anyone. It’s nice to see him getting the recognition he deserves right now.
2. Mala – he can do no wrong in my eyes. Absolutely opitomises what the sound is about. Percussion, bass, arrangement, sampling – beautiful. Every set I play seems to feature a few Mala tunes, any and everything he puts out is a straight purchase for me.
3. Phaeleh – his recent output has been top notch. A real musical craftsman who can competently cover all angles of the dubstep/ bass music sound to a very high standard. Another producer who I’ve been battering a lot in my sets.
4. TMSV – he’s like a Young Dutch Mala. Proper rootsy music, impeccable production. His percussion and bass flows beautifully, and he’s another producer that can work outside the box and bring something a bit different to the table.
5. DJ Madd – alot of Madd tunes in the bag at the moment. He’s had banger after banger in the last 12 months, the Black Box output has been top notch. Proper dark techy rollers. His album will really make a mark on the scene in 2012.

What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?

I personally see the more commercial side fading. It’s the same with anything that makes it into the mainstream, it has it’s time and then something else becomes flavour of the month. Many of the founding members have continued to work consistently experimenting at 140, but haven’t detracted from the music being bass-dominated. With the fans and momentum it’s picked up the last few years, I expect the underground to remain strong but on a bigger scale than before. 2012 is certainly already showing evidence of this.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

Tesla EP featuring Versa and Rowl forthcoming in M.U.D 005 out 13th Feb, and the M.U.V 001 featuring DCult – Inner Peace and Biome – Persepolis should be out in March.

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Work hard, be polite, believe in your ability and keep your integrity.

Any shoutouts?

Moo, Swiss & Daddy Genius, Demon and all Macabre/ ICU fam, Stink Like Sock, Bassbox and Cambridge Gold fam, Pete and all @ Junction, Diccon and all the Black Box fam, Killawatt, Thelem, Chan, Outlook Crew, Fez crew, Nikki & the Acute fam, GetDarker fam, Sub.FM crew and everyone supporting. Thank you!

If you’re not up to speed with just what T_! is capable of behind the decks, his ‘Nominated’ mix will sort you right out. An hour and 20 minutes, 51 tracks and some of the best producers in dubstep. It really doesn’t get better than this! If you enjoy it, vote for T_! – he deserves it.

Click to DOWNLOAD

Track list:

Content- The Maori 
Pheral & Occult- Unseen 
Widowmaker- Forgotten Ruin 
Anex- Delusion (Demon Remix) 
Fused Forces- Space Empty 
Mala- Blue Notes 
Cyrus- Ears Lowered 
Sleeper & Thelem- Untitled 
TMSV & June Miller- Ghost Ship 
Scratchy- Shangoolie 
Dcult- A Choice Was Made 
Afterdark- Change Me 
Hatti Vatti- You (Phaeleh Remix) 
Geeneus- Detroit 
Demon- Paper Chase 
LAXX- Warning 
Compa- Antact 
Tunnidge- Aftershock 
Dj Madd- Imagination 
V.I.V.E.K- Diablo 
Terror Danjah- Frontline (D.O.K Remix) 
Demon- Sgt. Slaughter 
Wiley- What Do You Call It (Bass Mix) 
Benga- Electro Music 
Lurka- Skeptic 
DCult- Inner Peace 
Mala- Eyez VIP 
Versa- Shadow Movements 
LAS- Memories 
Dj Madd & TMSV- Difference (J:Kenzo Remix) 
Killawatt- Codex 
Digital Mystikz- Neverland 
Dj Madd- Futureless 
Distance & Tunnidge- Blame 
Benga- Zombie Jig 
J:Kenzo- Engage 
Coki- Earth a Run Red 
Widowmaker- Heihachi 
Skream- feat Trim- Tweedle Dum 
Target- Runway 
Teeza- The Set Up 
Versa- Lucid VIP 
Statik feat D Double E- Superdoop 
Other Echoes- Further 
LAXX- Self Destruct 
Ed:It- Sphere (Eleven8 Remix) 
Lurka- Refresher 
Shotz- Creep 
Compa- Sentence 
Core- Wasteland 
Fat Freddy’s Drop- Cays Crays (Digital Mystikz Remix)

Let us know what you think of T_!’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

For those of you that follow the FKOF SoundCloud account, you’ll have hopefully already heard the superb hour long mix from South London’s Legend4ry. For those of you who don’t, well don’t worry as it’s embedded below and is available as ever as a free download! I started talking to Chris on Facebook after the feature with Trashbat way back in October. I listened to a few of his tunes and was so impressed with what I heard that I offered him a feature spot – and here we are…

Who is Legend4ry?

Legend4ry is Chris Gallienne, a 21 year old from Woolwich in South London; who wanted to pursue a career in Fine Art but discovered a passion for music after failing Fine Art. I started getting into dubstep around the age of 14/ 15 (‘04/ ‘05) which surpassed my passion for art when I was around 18. The name is a relection of how the music made me feel when I first got into dubstep; whilst in my teens I was heavily into rock music, but as I grew older I found electronic music to be unlike anything else. Dubstep was the first dance music genre I could properly be involved in as I feel it’s my generation’s answer to house and jungle.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

When I was around 9 or 10, my family were really into garage and I have always been around a pair of decks. The more I got into dubstep and started getting my own money – which I could spend on what I felt like – I just started collecting vinyl. My best mate T4X bought some decks around ‘06 and we’ve just not stopped DJing since! We love the whole vinyl culture thing and it’s links with dubstep. My style is deep subbass music which is percussion driven; it’s what I mix, make and push – I haven’t really cottoned onto the whole “dungeon sound” – it’s really not my cuppa, it feels like a step backwards.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

I use FL10 with a couple of must-have plugins such as;

• Synth1 (freeware)
• The Glue (Payware by Cytomic)
• Sylenth1 (Payware by LenndarDigital).

I’m not a huge Native Instruments fan (their GUIs dont’ sit well with me) but I do own Reaktor.

Turntables or CDJs?

Turntables are what I love and prefer to play on. But I do play CDJs out live due to the unreliability of venues’ decks. Oh, and the price of dubplates are steep! But if I know the decks are on point I WILL bring wax!

How long have you producing and DJing?

Producing has to be around 6-7 years now, DJing for about 4-5.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

My best gig was probably at a little venue in Reading called Bar Iguana - there was only about 50 people but it had a massive system (for the size of the club) and had a nice crowd! The recent gig I had at Hidden for Audio dOugnuts’ 1st birthday is probably joint first. Alongside would have to be Ramadanman; he’s god.

Who are your top 5 producers at the moment; and why?

1. Bandicoot/ Majora – I have such a production-crush on Majora; his music is marvellous. It’s well produced, weighty and carries the right vibe.
2. DubbelShot – I call him the boy wonder; I’ve never known someone so young to make some deep, emotive and beautiful music.
3. Ramadanman – Never made anything I dislike.
4. Addisongroove – I’m a sucker for the 808s and his percussion work.
5. FSTZ – One of the guys I looked up to when I was getting into the whole social networking behind dubstep; he’s making some very interesting music these days – ‘Fresh Gizzards’ is THE tune.

What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

I don’t like talking about the future of Dubstep but I will say this… When I make music these days - The BPM never stays arounds 140bpm and the stuff I play out is usually more than a year old bar a few tunes. I can’t find very exciting things anymore although if Kahn keeps making tunes like his Box Clever release, I will be a very happy man! I would love for that whole Dubtechno and perc’ driven stuff to come back (the whole Tempa AllStars 6 sound) into full swing, that’s when I felt most excited!

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

I have the ‘New Directions’ EP coming out on Dubstrict, a fantastic Kent-based label (which makes it a pretty local label to me). Other than that everything, else is just in the talking stage but that’s the only contract I’ve signed in recent months!

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Move the BPM up and down – it makes your music more interesting! Even if you don’t know how a genre sounds or how to produce it, give it a go anyways! Some of my most loved tracks are made with naivety!

soundcloud.com/fatkidonfire/l… have you listened to my @FatKidOnFire mix yet? I go from Deep House > Garage > Deep Dubstep > Dancefloor > EP Preview

— Chris (@Legend4ry)

January 13, 2012

As Chris said in one of his tweets after I uploaded it to SondCloud, his hour long mix traverses multiple genres and has at least a few tunes in it to please everyone. I’ve had it on constant repeat since he sent it over a (more than a) few weeks back – if you end up feeling it to remember to get at Legend4ry and tell him!

Click to DOWNLOAD

Track list:

1. Culoe De Song - Webaba [Innervisions] 
2. Batu - Raw Eyes - [Dub] 
3. Legend4ry - Foolio [Dub] 
4. Legend4ry - Broless (Less Bro) [Dub] 
5. HxDB - BUMPTHAT [Kursed] 
6. Tayo - March Of The Soundbwoyz (TRG remix) [Cool And Deadly] 
7. Pearson Sound - Blanked [Hessle Audio] 
8. Quest - Stand [Deep Medi] 
9. Shackleton - Blood On My Hands [Skull Disco] 
10. Pearson Sound - PLSN [Hessle Audio] 
11. Legend4ry - The Lovely Bones [Dub] 
12. Hatcha Vs Kromestar - Ragz [Eight:FX] 
13. Cyrus - Night After [Origin Audio] 
14. Cyrus - Grotbags [Southside Dubstars] 
15. Legend4ry - Hidden Danger (Trim Bootleg) [Instrumental on Mindstep] 
16. Legend4ry - Stoner Movement (Motivational Vocal Mix) [Dub] 
17. Legend4ry - Wandering [Forthcoming Dubstrict Records] 
18. Legend4ry - Detramental [Forthcoming Dubstrict Records]

Let us know what you think of Legend4ry’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

This Thursday see’s Sub-Liminal take over Volks Club in Brighton, bringing you a night full of Dubstep, DnB and maybe even a bit of hip-hop. Gangoon Dubs very own Dismantle and Hizzle Guy will be going B2B, so its fair to say this night is going to go OFF!

DJ Argo and Joe have each done a mix for us to give away to give you an an idea of what’s in store! Get downloading!

Agro mix for MakeItGood by Half-Hi

MakeItGood mix by Half-Hi

£2 NUS, £3 other and then £4 after 12:30. If your about in the Brighton area on Thursday, don’t miss this! For more information, check out the Facebook event page.

Next Friday (20th Jan) will see Yeti In The Basement take over Life club in Brighton, alongside collective ENK. They will be bringing you a night of UK Funky, Garage and Bass sounds! 

Full line up:

ROSKA [Rinse FM]
SHOX [Rinse FM] 
FLATLINE [Enk]
DUBLOKE [SimplyVinyl]
LIANA [NastyFm]
PHENIX & LZ [Enk]

Free entry before 11PM if you write your names on the Facebook event wall, £3 before 12, then more afterwards. For more information click here. 

Digital Pirate Material is an online music blog, showcasing talented artists from an eclectic blend of underground music genres. They have put together a FREE compilation of all the music that they have discovered since starting the blog.

“Kicking off with an energetic Numan production, the compilation travels through sounds of future garage with iO, deep bass ridden dubstep with Paleman, 8 bar grime riddims with Spooky, dance floor destroying funky with Lil Silva, as well as conscientious lyricism delivered by Context MC and bootleg remixes courtesy of Mista Men and Majora”. 

Tracklisting…

1. Numan - Salute
2. Great Skies - Close to Me
3. Dark0 feat. Context MC - Killing Me
4. iO - Labyrinth Ear - Amber [iO Remix]
5. Mr Tickle - Bassline Skanka
6. Admin - ONE
7. SBTRKT - Hold On [Mista Men ReRub]
8. JayceK - Must Be Love
9. Paleman - Destroya
10. Trim - I Am [Kozee Remix]
11. Spooky - LOTM [Spooky’s Mix]
12. Genesis Elijah - Falling feat. James Blake
13. BareSkin - After The End
14. Majora - Sexual Seduction [Snoop Bootleg]
15. Frequent Flyers - Logged
16. Lil Silva - Night Skanker 2.0 VIP
17. ¥oin - U & Me [Remix]
18. Bondax - All I Want 

To download this compilation, all you have to do is click the download link in the player above and follow the instructions, its that simple! There isn’t one tune on this whole compilation that I don’t like, so don’t sleep on this people! Get downloading! Keep up to date with everything Digital Pirate Material by following them on Facebook and Twitter. 

Easy!!

So you may remember a previous post about Kinzy from a few months back…

Well he’s back with a bang for 2012, set to drop the 3rd official release on his own Fully Blown outlet, “Time Has Come” featuring GMan with a remix from Woz!

The tracks are already receiving support from Funtcase/Haze, Hatcha, Lost, Beezy etc

The release drops on 16th January and will be exclusive to Trackitdown for 2 weeks, then hitting iTunes, Juno and DJ Download on the 30th January…

There’s rumoured to be forthcoming material from the likes of Badklaat & BukezFinezt so keep your eyes peeled for more Fully Blown releases in 2012!!

Also don’t forget Kinzy’s free EP is still available to download below

Follow Kinzy - Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, YouTube, Discogs

written by Jim Syte

Today sees us release our next MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire feature, and this time we sat down with Diss Miss from Dutty Girl, talked music, and everything in between. Also, Dutty girl are only the second female feature in this series… is that saying something? For those of you who don’t know, “Dutty Girl are a crew from Bristol that musically span a multitude of genres from Hip Hop, Dubstep to Grime, Drum n Bass, Bassline, Funky and Dancehall. They do things their own way, with their own sense of home-girl haute couture style!”. Peep the interview below…

1. What/who is Dutty Girl?

Well, I started putting on the ‘Dutty Girl’ club night back in 2004 as a platform for women in hip hop to come together and feel supported by other like-minded women.. Out of this and over time we’ve become a music collective.  We comprise of six DJ’s/Producers, MC’s and singers; Dazee, Diss Miss, Safe Soul, Kash Honey, Sarah B and Klair.  We still do club nights but we call them ‘Dutty Bass’ now.  I suppose to answer your question fully then i should say that ‘Dutty’ is also a whole brand and ethos -  I run a shop in Stoke’s Croft in Bristol and that’s been going since 2004, and it’s now a bit of a Bristol institution. We stock vintage, one-off designs, graffiti supplies and Dutty Girl merchandise too. (www.shopdutty.com) 

2. How long has Dutty Girl been together?

The collective was always changing and lots of girls came through over time, but for the past 5/6 years we’ve stayed pretty much as we are, basically just a really tight group of six friends doing music together.

3. Some of you DJ, some of you MC, how did you all get into it?

I started DJing over ten years ago, completely absorbed by hip hop, so it was all about that for me in the first instance. Kash Honey, Safe Soul and Sarah B all knew each other previously, they started coming to the Dutty Girl nights in the early days and eventually approached me about getting involved. Together we played a lot of gigs, Safe Soul and I would be djing and Kash Honey and Sarah B rapping over hip hop instrumentals. We also used to do open mic at the night back then, and that’s where we discovered Klair when she blew us away with her soulful and amazingly powerful voice. Dazee was the last to join, she had been working on a radio show with Nicky2Katz, who was also one of the collective back then.  Having already had a long career in DJing, Dazee was just really open and interested in the whole Dutty Girl idea, so it wasn’t long before we began producing together. Dazee and I started producing together four years ago, making the backing tracks for the vocalists.  We’re mainly inspired by the songs the vocalists write, so we write whatever we feel will best suit the vocals.  We’re all really heavily into basslines, so i guess that’s often the most important thing in our tracks. There’s no specific genre that we stick to but our main backgrounds throughout the collective are Hip hop and Drum and Bass. Dazee is a bit of a legend in the Drum and Bass scene, having started Ruffneck Ting and she’s a former member of Substance. She’s played at all the biggest Drum and Bass parties around the world.

4. Turntables or CDJ’s?

All three of the Dutty Girl DJs are turntable purists at heart and we’re all still making the transition into the digital age!  Only because you really kind of have to in these times, so many tracks we want aren’t out on vinyl! Dazee is now on Serato and i’ll be not long behind her, Safe Soul is planning on going on to Ableton Live very soon too.

5. Best set has been? Why? 

Our best sets are usually at St Paul’s carnival.  We’ve played at it for the last few years and we love it! We pretty much all live in St Paul’s so it’s right on our doorstep (always the best way to enjoy a carnival!) and it’s just a real honour to play on a big sound system at carnival in front of a big old crowd of people who really ‘get’ the music.

6. What music are you listening to at the moment? Any recommendations?

There’s too much to mention! But a few off the top of my head that we love; Frank Ocean, The Weeknd, Redlight, Drake, Mosca, Seiji, Sbtrkt, Die, Interface, Joker and loads of Moombahton (i’m a masssive David Heartbreak fan), we’re massively into Dancehall and RnB as well.  

7. Any advice to those starting out?

We started with a club night, so i guess that’s one way of doing it to get your name out there. I also would say in general that as long as you do what you love then you can’t go too far worng. Don’t do what you think others expect or want from you, just do what you believe, and believe wholeheartedly that you can do it.  And always choose to have good people around you, positive influences from good people go a long way.  

Dutty Girl has recently released their Call Of Dutty mixtape which you can listen to below. It includes 9 brand new unreleased Dutty Girl tracks and shows off their diverse style. Make sure you keep up to date with everything Dutty by following them on Twitter, Facebook and Soundcloud.

Track List:

1) Dutty Girl Intro 
2) Curiousity - Dazee & Diss Miss ft. Klair/Sarah B/Koast 
3) March Out Riddim 
4) Bad Behaviour - Heartbreak 
5) Boneknuckles (Moombahton Remix) - Heartbreak & Munchi 
6) Galang Gal - T.O.K 
7) Badman Riddim (Heartbreak Edit) - Vato Gonzales 
8) Everybody Clap - T.O.K 
9) Calabria - Enur 
10) I See You Lady - Dazee & Diss Miss ft. Klair 
11) Source 16 - Redlight 
12) Take Me Down - Dazee & Diss Miss ft. Kash Honey 
13) Bax - Mosca 
14) Face Up - Seiji 
15) Battle For Middle You - Julio Bashmore 
16) King Of My Castle - Wamdue Project 
17) Planet X - Redlight 
18) Bleep Ting - Dazee & Diss Miss 
19) Stamina - Zero G 
20) MDMA - Redlight 
21) Don’t Know Me - Dazee & Diss Miss, ft. Sarah B 
22) Be Like Me (Remix) - Snoop Dogg ft. P Money x True Tiger 
23) Lost - Joker ft. Buggsy and Otis Brown 
24) Ni**as In Paris - Jay Z & Kanye West 
25) Who Dat - J.Cole 
26) Sweet Little Lies - Dazee & Diss Miss ft. Sarah B 
27) Whenever - Dazee & Diss Miss ft. Kash Honey 
28) See Me On The Road (Dazee Remix) - Dazee & Diss Miss ft. Sarah B 
29) In and Out - Dazee & Diss Miss ft. Kash Honey 
30) Outro

Let us know what you think of Dutty Girl’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

With the rise of mainstream ‘brostep’ over the last few years, I’ve been stoked to follow the resurgence of the more original ‘traditional’ dubstep sounds – as you can probably tell by the artists featuring here on MakeItGood. The next artist to step up to the MakeItGood x FKOF plate is on a similar tip, supporting the older sounds from the original dubstep dons in both his mixes and production. Biak may be pretty new to the scene, but his tunes are empty space, tribal beats and massive basslines; just how I like ‘em. He hit me up at the end of last year so I grabbed him for a feature. Check his interview and grab the mix, I reckon we’ll be hearing more of him over 2012…

Who is Biak?

I’m 18 from near Oxford in England, studying music technology at college in Witney.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style – big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

I guess it was college really, I was into DJing before I started and I knew about people like Burial, Kode9 and stuff. I was big on grime but I was more into tech house and minimal techno. My mate at college Bradley (Reamz) was a bit more clued up than me and I just got more and more into it and found new artists. He got me into vinyl DJing (over mp3) and I’ve got a lot of respect for that. My style is still influenced by that minimal techno sound in a way but I’m all about tribal percussion and the deeper bass lines. I’m still a lot more into the older sounds like Matty G, Loefah, Shackleton, Pinch etc – more than the kind of dungeon sound going around at the moment so I think that comes through in my sound.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

When I started college I somehow managed to blag getting a Mac so I’m using Logic Pro 9 at the moment. The synths I tend to use are Massive, Omnisphere, FM8, Logic synths and I’ve used some other random plug in bits I’ve found lying around the internet but I’d like to get some more really.

Turntables or CDJs?

Turntables all day. I’ve had one experience of CDJ’s with my mate Slikma who is a Uk hardcore dj and i swear those things were from the stoneage.

How long have you producing and DJing?

I’ve been doing bits of DJing at parties and stuff since about 14 but nothing proper really. Started producing properly and DJing about a year ago.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

Probably the other week with my mate Criag just ‘cause it was hilarious and we got seriously wonky; it’s all about having a laugh. I’d have to say Shackleton, Pinch, Oneman, Cooly G, Pevrelist, Quest, Mala, Commodo would be a dope line up to play with.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. Shackleton – The man’s percussion work in second to none and i just love his music, I could listen to it all day.
2. Commodo – I love how he’s kind of mixing the new sounds going around at the moment with more intense drum patterns, the way he works samples into songs is tight.
3. The Bug – Always has and always will be one of my favourites. Pure weight.
4. Pinch – I get a lot of inspiration from listening to Pinch, he’s just one of those producers where I’ll respect everything he does because it’s always his sound.
5. Vex’d – My mate tweeted the other day that one day he wishes he can make something as good as Vex’d and I think that pretty much sums it up. His tunes are so interesting to just listen to and his production is spot on every time.

What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

The bros will move on and all of this stuff that’s coming out in the charts will die off, it’s just a bandwagon they are on. It happened to drum and bass a few years ago and it’s just one of those stages where people want something to latch on to. I think some of the proper bros that just enjoy the music will maybe move into listening to the dungeon scene thats around at the moment and that will grow. I feel like a lot of the guys that were in it from the start are maybe moving on a bit from the sound and respect to where they are going.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

My first E.P. will be out on Dubporn Records in 2012. I’ve got a lot of excitement for that and they are cool girls who own the label so large ups for that; go check it out! I’m also going to release a tune on a label that’s just started called Absent Minded Records (big ups to them), I just need to sort that one out. At the moment, I want to focus on getting a good collection of dubs and building up a bit of a name for myself. People are way too keen to give out dubs now and I want to hold onto the culture of not giving my tunes to anyone.

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Find a sound you like and do what you want with it. There’s no real movements around at the moment so don’t worry about being the next Kryptic Minds – just do what you think sounds good really. Way too many people at the moment trying to get the same sound as someone else.

16 tracks, 7 dubs and a selection of rising stars for the next 12 months all feature in Biak’s mix for MakeItGood and FatKidOnFire. Grab the free download and follow Rory on SoundCloud if you’re digging it.

Track list:

1. Biak – Becoming [dub] 
2. Formless – BioRhythm [dub] 
3. Tallan – Recall [dub] 
4. Biak – Tighten Warfare [dub] 
5. Reamz – Fear [dub] 
6. Sparxy – Exile [dub] 
7. Scalade – Slow Burner [dub] 
8. Pinch – Blow Out The Candle [free] 
9. Sigha – Expansions [Hot Flush] 
10. Myrkur & TMSV – Icarus [free] 
11. LV & Untold – Beacon [Hemlock] 
12. Pinch & Shackleton – Burning Blood [Honest Jons] 
13. Loefah – Life Dub [DMZ] 
14. Pinch – Joyride [Tectonic] 
15. Anatomist – Bad Blood [Dirt Famous EP] 
16. King Midas Sound – Earth A Killya [Hyperdub]

Let us know what you think of Biak’s mix + interview via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

Ghent’s ARtroniks has been gaining a lot of support over the past year or so, from some of our favourite producers. We’ve been following his tunes and when we got chatting on SoundCloud and Arne offered to send us a mix, we jumped at the opportunity. You can follow ARtroniks on Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, YouTube and Mixcloud. Grab the free download and give him a shout if you enjoy it!

Who is ARtroniks?

I am Arne De Meyer, 19 years old, and ARtroniks is my electronic music project. I make everything from ambient to house, techno and dubstep.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

I mainly use Ableton Live. But I occasionally use some hardware synths, like the Roland Juno 60 or SH-32.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style – big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

Dubstep has something mysterious and you can merge a lot of different styles of electronic music into the one genre. I like the deep and dark basslines that shatter your chest. I prefer the deeper side of dubstep but I sometimes can appreciate some of the “filthier” stuff.

How long have you producing and DJing? Turntables or CDJs?

I’ve been producing for over 5 years now. I only started DJing a few years later. I learned to mix with a MIDI controller but later I switched to timecode vinyl. Now I use CDJs and occasionally also turntables for vinyl.

What’s the dubstep scene in Belgium like?

The scene in Belgium has grown a lot the past few years. There are a lot of parties that cover the whole spectrum of dubstep. So I think the scene is varied and healthy.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

My best gig was “Tacticz Vs Dub Up” in Kortrijk. Had loads of fun there. I also play regularly at Rotation, a clubnight in Ghent, always good vibes! If I could DJ alongside anyone, I would choose for Richie Hawtin because he is a big inspiration for me.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. J:Kenzo: His productions are always spot on. I love the minimalism and space in his tunes
2. Kromestar: He brings versatile sounds and styles, he’s been my favourite dubstep producer for a long time now
3. Coki: Coki always tears down the place. His tunes are mental and have that “raw” feeling
4. Perverse: Pure darkness and top notch productions. Watch out for these boys!
5. DJ Madd: loving the warm productions of DJ Madd

What does the future hold for dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

I see dubstep going in different directions, but it’s already doing that. Genres are always evolving and there allways will be new sounds. I’ve noticed there is an increased interest for the deeper & “original” side of dubstep, and a lot of producers are taking it to the next level.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

Currently there are no release plans, but 2012 should bring some!

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Keep doing your own thing and don’t be afraid to think outside the box!

Any shoutouts?

Shouts to Blynk, Brownz, Digid, Disonata, Dubgrow, Formless, Gaz, Ghost Note, Kasket, Mate, Perverse, Pheral, P Mero, Sander Boone, Tallan, TyrOnn, Underground Conspiracy, Vyron, Zoobi and everyone who supports me and my music!

Arne’s mix for MakeItGood and FatKidOnFire is a superb selection of old talent and new tracks from producers you’ll be hearing a lot more of over the next few months. As always, grab the free download below and happy new year!

Click to DOWNLOAD

Track list:

1. ARtroniks – Boundless 
2. ARtroniks – Kerzq Attack 
3. Blynk – Semiotic 
4. Disonata – Evoke (ARtroniks remix) 
5. Formless – Hidden Realm 
6. Pheral – Hatchway 
7. ARtroniks – Torment 
8. Pheral – Untitled 
9. Zoobi – Dodging A Bullet 
10. Perverse – Charade 
11. J:Kenzo – Therapy 
12. Kromestar – Atlantis 
13. Headhunter – Projector 
14. Fable – Outworld 
15. Tallan – Parted 
16. Skream – Memories Of 3rd Base 
17. ARtroniks – Temperature Drop 
18. Digid – Power Restored 
19. ARtroniks – Dubsteak 
20. ARtroniks – Your Touch

Let us know what you think of ARtroniks mix + interview via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

Happy New Year from MakeItGood!!!

To kick of 2012 we’ve got a fresh mix from a member of our team, Jim Syte

A serious 90 minute selection of heavyweight dubs this is essential listening!!

Compa - Coashed [Dub]
Occult - Assassins [ICU:Audio Dub]
Sleeper & District- Dungeon Style [Dub]
Lurka & Instinct - Titan [Dub]
TMSV - The Night [Dub]
Killawatt - Proliferation [Dub]
Artikal - Alone In The Darkness [Artikal Music Dub]
CORE - Out The Cage [Dub]
Pheral - Hatchway [InnaMind Dub]
Perverse - Genocide [MindStep Music Dub]
Headhunter - Clone [Black Box]
Sleeper - Zombies [Chestplate Dub]
Content - Sulfur [Dub]
Kaiju - Snake Spirit [Dub]
Author - Revolutions [Tectonic]
Sleeper & District - LV-426 [Chestplate]
Biome - Moody [M.U.D Dub]
Perverse - Mizrahi [Dub]
Catacombs & Knowledge - Old Town [Dub]
SP:MC & LX One - Hunted [Tempa]
Sleeper - Narrow [Chestplate Dub]
Pistonsbeneath - Unspeakable [MindStep Music Dub]
Benton - Sleepless [Wheel & Deal]
Killawatt & Thelem - Joom [Dub]
Ipman - Mirage [Dub]
Lurka - Skeptic [Dub]
Subreachers - The Challenge [Dub]
Biome - Minus [M.U.D Dub]
J:Kenzo feat. Rod Azlan - Ruff House [Tempa]
Subreachers - Developer [Dub]
V.I.V.E.K - Soundman [Deep Medi]

Follow Syte…

Facebook // Twitter // SoundCloud // Mixcloud // Tumblr

You can catch Syte DJing at Cable in the MakeItGood X FatKidOnFire room

Friday 3rd February 2012 for the GetDarker album launch party

alongside Benton, Killawatt & Thelem & Sparxy!!!

Tonight see’s Playaz return to Fabric with a stellar line up to celebrate Christmas! It’s sure to be an amazing night, with some of the biggest names in DnB on the line up. 

For more details, visit the Facebook event page. If you are free tonight and in London, don’t sleep, and get down to this!  

Seeing as it’s Christmas eve, and we’re feeling very festive, we have decided to release Sparxy’s next mix for MakeItGood, and this one is pure dubplate business! With loads of unreleased tunes from the Bacon Dubs crew, you would be mad not to get this on your speakers. Click the link below to download his 30 minute mix.

MakeItGood x Bacon Dubs Xmas Mixed by Sparxy

Track list

Fused Forces feat S Dot - Watch The Bassline

Reamz - Serapis

Skriptah - Black Hole

Hiloxam - Sihouette

Sparxy - Occupied

Hiloxam - Recognition

Reamz - Fear

Skriptah - Clapper

Fused Forces - Street Level

KBeatz - Too Rare To Die

Fuzz2k - Avalanche

Ohmtrix - Converge

Make sure you follow Sparxy on Twitter and Facebook to keep up to date on everything he’s up to! 

Today sees us release our latest feature in our MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire series. We’re really excited to show you guys our video interview with producer/dj Blacksmif, as we’ve had our eye on him for a while now! Blacksmif will be releasing a EP on Synchronicity Records in the not too distant future, so make sure you keep an eye out for that! 

Keep up to date with Blacksmif by following him on Twitter and Facebook. A massive thank you to Sam at We Free The Box for filming and editing. Let us know what you think of our video interview with Blacksmif via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

There’s been an explosion of quality startup independent bass music labels popping up this year. 2011’s been a stellar one for supporting the original dubstep sounds and artists, as you can probably tell by the number of MakeItGood x FKOF features with new artists this year. Dubstep may have been declared ‘dead’, but if the current state of the Juno Download chart is anything to go by, there’s nothing but love for young innovative labels supporting fresh talent. The next interviewee in the MIG x FKOF series features is another of these new labels – Germany’s Digital Sanctuary Recordings run by DnB artist Rusher. The label caught our eye this week after pushing an astoundingly good EP from London’s Wheeler. I got in touch with Rusher to get the lowdown on the label, who he’s supporting and what the future holds for Digital Sanctuary Recordings.

Who and what is Digital Sanctuary Recordings?

Digital Sanctuary Recordings is a digital music label founded by me, Rusher – a DnB producer/ DJ from Germany. I started it as a dubstep label, but after a few releases I now see it more like a platform for deep electronic music; so not just strictly dubstep.

What led to you starting the label? Considering you run the label on your own, how has setting up and getting the label exposure been for you so far? Is it something you’d recommend doing?

I found it really depressing to see how many labels out there are releasing crappy music. As you don’t really have to invest in releasing digital music (compared to vinyl) most labels have this “Ah, what the hell, let’s just release it” attitude. I started the label to build a name you can trust, those who know me as a DnB artist know that I really care about quality. I want to put the same quality control in this label, so I won’t sign anything I’m not 100% sure about. I didn’t start the label to push my name in the dubstep scene or anything, I’m not even following it, I never really go to parties and I don’t know what labels in the scene are big, I just want to release great music. Setting up the label wasn’t really hard, as I’ve been in the industry for some years now I knew who to contact and what to do, but getting the label some exposure was much harder than expected. There are so many labels out there (especially in the dubstep genre) – people I know still hit me up and say “Damn, I didn’t realize you started a label!”; even though I tried everything from making promo videos, mixes, to banner ads on very big websites. Unless you have a big name signed, it’s pretty hard to stand out for a new label. Not sure if this is something I’d recommend. If you’re an established artist and you want to start a label in your genre to have more creative freedom, go for it – but if you want start a label because you think it will make you rich and famous, you would have much more fun burning the money you planned on investing into your label… Your label can have 20,000 fans on Facebook, and maybe (if you’re lucky) 200 of them will actually pay for your music, because clicking a ‘Like’ button is much easier than spending money.

Who’s currently on your roster?

We have:

• – Matta on a collab track with Dubtek,
• – Culprate with a remix that will be released early 2012,
• – Shureshotz on a very deep track,
• – Monti from the Netherlands releasing an amazing debut,
• – Silent Strike from Romania with an EP that’s just perfect,
• – Roka from Bulgaria (already dropped two releases), with his friend Vly remixing one of his tunes,
• – Ideal Standard from Germany with a really cool single,
• – The UK’s Wheeler with an EP (which launched on the 16th),
• – Void & Worm = 4 people from the USA and Germany, great stuff!
• – I have and will release some stuff by myself.

With so many Djs embracing digital, there seems to be a gradual move away from traditional vinyl releases from labels these days. What are your thoughts on this?

I had very long discussions about this topic; I think it was better for labels back when every DJ played vinyl, and not only for the labels, also for the listeners, because (like I mentioned before) the quality control is much higher when you’re supposed to invest money into the tunes you want to release. Pressing vinyl is really expensive, so you have to think twice if the tune is really good enough to be released. It was not as easy to copy the tunes if you wanted to play them at a gig – you’d have to press a dubplate of a tune you don’t own whereas nowadays you just download the MP3 somewhere and no one would know if you bough it or not. It’s pretty normal that a lot of labels lose their vinyl deals. I’ve also talked to some artists (that don’t own a label, or have released anything before) because I wanted to sign tunes from them, and they said “No thanks, I only want to release vinyl” and I don’t know, but that’s pretty interesting to me. I understand the wish to release vinyl, you work on tunes for hours and hours and in the end it gets reduced to a few megabytes; that thought can be really depressing. You’ve got to face reality, unless the label can be sure that your name sells, they’d rather release digital and if it sells good then they could make even more money because they don’t have to invest so much.

Do you think you will stick to releasing dubstep, or can you see the label releasing other genres in the future?

The last release had a heavy DnB remix on the flip side, and Silent Strike’s EP had some really cool IDM tunes on it. So yeah, I’m open for all kinds of good electronic music, as long as it fits a certain vibe.

What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going? What’s the dubstep scene in Germany like?

I really don’t know what the future will bring, I mean we’ve now got Korn and Justin Bieber doing “dubstep” Albums… Skrillex helps that and the youngers now know that sort of sound as “dubstep”. It seems like this genre is being raped by everyone right now. That might be another reason why I don’t want to call the label a dubstep label anymore, ‘cause I don’t really want to be part of this orgy. I think dubstep hasn’t really arrived in Germany yet. There are some parties here every few months, but it’s still very risky – no matter who you book, you can be lucky and it’s sold out or only 10 people show up.

Any new releases we can look forward to? Can you tell us a bit more about the recent Wheeler EP?

Well, in January we will be releasing Void & Worm’s single with the tracks ‘Standoff’ and ‘Warriors’. After that we have a remix single and a remix EP. Monti will do an EP as well. As well as a few more surprises! I discovered Wheeler on SoundCloud, got in contact with him and signed two of his tracks. I then heard new stuff by him and signed that too; in the end we had 6 tracks that I fell in love with. His EP is just perfect, it kind of reminds me of Kryptic Mind’s ‘One of Us’ album, the vibe and the production is totally on point. And I’m planning on releasing more of his stuff!

Any events lined up that we should get excited about?

I’m not really a promoter, we had one label night and I’m sure there will be a second one, but I haven’t even thought about that yet to be honest.

Any advice to upcoming Producers/ DJs trying to get signed?

Be your own harshest critic and don’t send everything you do to a label unless you think it’s great. Try to figure out which of your friends really tell you what they think about your music, and which ones only say “Yeah its dope!” to everything you produce. And if you decide to send tracks out, take the time and listen to the label’s music to see if your music fits in there. And last but not least, don’t send your music to 4000+ people at once, I’m really not listening to music when it says “shared to 4000 people and you”.

We’ve been rinsing the Wheeler release since it went up on the lable’s BandCamp account earlier this week. On a side note, Daniel recently posted an interesting piece on his relationship with Beatport and BandCamp – well worth a read.

You can stream Digital Sanctuary’s latest release in its entirety above – and the full 6 track download is only £6. For a small label pushing some really, really great artists you can’t really argue with that. 

Let us know what you think of our interview with Digital Sanctuary Recordings via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

Today’s MakeItGood and FatKidOnFire interview and guest mix welcomes another new producer/ DJ to the site – the second Greek dubstep artist to feature here (Duckem being the first). Back in November, we received an email from a producer/ DJ called Digital Monk who, like Thierry D, who was asking whether we would feature his tunes/ mixing skills on the blog. We got chatting and, after listening to the tunes (and awesome mix, more on that later) he’d sent over, we offered him a spot in the MIG x FKOF series. His short interview and awesome (proper dubstep) mix is a perfect end to a dark and dank December weekend! Get the this on the speakers and hit up Digital Monk on Twitter if you’re feeling it!

Who is Digital Monk?

Digital Monk is an 18 years old Producer/DJ from Greece.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style – big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

I was producing hip-hop before I started producing dubstep. After spending a while listening to dubstep, I tried to make my first beats and create my first basslines. I realy liked the 140 bpm style so I’ve kind of stuck with it since then. My style can be both dark and filthy; it’s all about the inspiration and mood.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

I use FL10.

Turntables or CDJs?

CDJs.

How long have you producing and DJing?

I’ve been producing since the winter of 2010 and DJing since spring 2011.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

If I could spin along someone, it would be DMZ’s Mala or Skream; pure skills.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. Kryptic Minds – I just love their music
2. DJ Madd – Huge tunes
3. Sukh Knight – Awsome basslines
4. Biome – Sick music, love most of his tunes
5. Radikal Guru – Always liked his dub/ dubstep style.

What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

We can’t be sure of anything. People will maybe get bored of it and just forget it, or the dubstep community will continue growing; who knows! But there always will be a few people who will keep making this music and pushing the genre to the next level.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

Can’t say anything for sure at the moment, hopefully there’ll be a few in 2012!

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Just continue making the music that you like, don’t try to make what others want to hear.

George’s mix for MakeItGood and FatKidOnFire does exactly what it says on the tin. It’s nice and deep, features a selection of the finest producers in the genre and has a track list guaranteed to get any proper dubstep head stoked to give it a listen. So grab the free download below and hit Digital Monk up on Soundcloud or Twitter if you’re liking what you hear. 

Digital Monk x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

 

Track list:

1. Kryptic Minds - Hybrid 
2. Thelem - Distilled 
3. Digital Monk - Philosophy of Life 
4. Scalade - Twisted Paths VIP 
5. Digital Monk - Consequence of Silence 
6. Core - Darkside 
7. Kryptic Minds - Badman 
8. Soap Dodgers - Distant 
9. Kromestar - Technique 
10. Catacombs - Dimnesion 
11. Eleven8 - Autumn 
12. DJ Madd - One for the Angels 
13. Icicle ft. Proxima - Breathing Again 
14. The Bug - Catch a Fire 
15. 12th planet - Be Blatant 
16. Sukh Knight - Hand of Buddha 
17. DJ Madd - Reggae Ambassador

Let us know what you think of Digital Monk’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

Tomorrow night sees Trix take over Hidden as part of the Found series. With a stella line up including; Dark Sky, Boddika, French Fries and many more! If you fancy a night of house/funky/bass music, get yourself down to this! 

Dark Sky

Advanced tickets are £9 and are available here. Tickets on the door will be £12. 

Also, the competition to win 2 free entries to Friday’s event, and a signed print by Boddika himself is still open, and closes tomorrow! Get entering if you haven’t already! Click this link for more details > http://www.trixlondon.com/trix/boddika-competition/

For more info, check out the Facebook event or the Trix website. 

2011 has been a fantastic year for the MakeItGood x FKOF series. Just looking through the archive of artists Wil and I have featured over the past 12 months is testament to just how big the deep/ dark(/ real) side of dubstep has got (although to be fair, with Skrillex’s 5 Grammy nominations you could argue that that side of ‘dubstep’ is doing pretty well too). There’s still a few weeks left for us to feature some interesting talent and tonight’s interviewee is just that., Sydney’s Thierry D emailed me back at the start of November which a mix he’d done to celebrate Halloween (which is well worth a listen). I listened to the bits he sent over and offered up a spot in the MIG x FKOF series. So here goes! Give his interview a read and listen to his damn decent mix – find him onFacebook if you’re feeling it.

Who is Thierry D?

Hey! I’m Thierry and when I’m not producing beats I work full time and am in my second year as an apprentice Chef. One of the hard things about my job is having to work weekends and missing all the good gigs! When not at work or producing beats, I also enjoy playing/ watching football and basketball.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

I used to listen to a lot of early breakbeat around 2003 – 2005, the heavier weigh stuff like Plump Dj’s, Krafty Kuts, Ed Solo etc. I first heard of dubstep around 2009 via a local underground radio show and instantly knew it was for me! I love the dark, deep and atmospheric style of dubstep but like it with some reggae influence. I don’t really mind the filthy stuff but much prefer the deeper sounds. After first hearing the deep dubstep sounds in mid 2009 I started mucking around with it in my DAW and started producing my own sounds…

What software do you use to produce your tracks? 

I like to used Garage Band and I’ve also got an old Novation K Station that I bought off a mate – which is great for bassline and synth work!

How long have you producing and DJing? Turntables or CDJs?

I started DJing in 2008 after getting a pair of 1200 technics. I got into producing when I got my MacBook in early 2009 as making tracks on it is much easier, as is mixing MP3s. I decided to get some CDJs to get me started – so I could mix my own tunes. I’m finding so many great 320 releases online at the moment so am really enjoying mixing on CDJs! A lot of the tunes I like these days are only available as MP3s but I much prefer mixing on vinyl so might jump on Serato in the near future.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

The best gigs I’ve played were the LikeHardbass warehouse parties around western Sydney. Really looking forward to the next one as they have 3 arenas! Definitely would love to play alongside Magnetic Man; recently saw them play a gig in Sydney. Their set was so perfect – everything was just amazing!

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

This question is way too hard! There are so many great producers out there! My top 5 are:

1. Truth – Their sounds are so deep and atmospheric!
2. Magnetic Man – Great producers also knows how to rock a party
3. Chewie – This dude makes great atmospheric, heavy and deep vibes
4. Fuzz2k – Makes great deep tunes and also heard him some make nice heavy tunes
5. Kryptic Minds – I always enjoy listening to their music.

What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?

I think dubstep has a big future. I see it like a bit like trance – the genre has expanded over the years to form progressive, psy-trance, hard trance etc etc., For dubstep, it’s starting to evolve to deep, filth, melodic filth, reggae vibes, hip-hop and R&B vibes. I think dubstep music will be pretty big for a long time to come…

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

Yes i have a few upcoming releases:

• My most recent release dropped on a deep dubstep compilation album fromPhantom Hertz Recordings in the middle of November and is available from all major digital retailers
• I also have 3 tunes getting a release on Dark Vibe Productions and then have 2 tunes releasing next year on What A DoDo Records.

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Advice for the up-and-comers; just practise heaps and focus on your goals. Just have fun with it – that’s what it’s all about; just having fun.

I’ve hit the upload limit on the FKOF Soundcloud account (and can’t afford to upgrade it until after Christmas) so it’s up on our Mixcloud account. If you want to grab the download, contact us using the details below. Hit Thierry D up if you’re feeling his awesome MakeItGood x FKOF mix!,

Thierry D x FatKidOnFire mix by Fatkidonfire on Mixcloud

Let us know what you think of Thierry D’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

Crooks & Castle have decided to be extra generous this Christmas by giving one lucky person the chance to win £130 of Crooks & Castle merchandise, in association with Threads Addition. 

What you could win : A Crooks & Castles 5 Panel Cap, Crooks & Castles Beanie, Crooks & Castles Airgun Belt, Crooks & Castles Leather Wallet and to top it all off a Crooks & Castles Ashtray

For your chance to win simply head over to the Threads Addiction Facebook Page and enter on the dedicated ‘Crooks Christmas Competition’ tab. It’s that simple!

Competition closes on the 20th December… so get entering! 

Next Monday sees Union take over Fabric to give you a night full of bass driven music. With a lineup that is sure to attract anyone and everyone, it safe to say that this one is going to go OFF. 

Early bird tickets are £5, standard tickets are £10 and can be purchased here. For more information, check out the facebook event page. 

There are times when artists contact us and offer to send a mix over. Birmingham’s Stuart Powell and Esstee did exactly that a few weeks back and we were so impressed with what they sent we invited them over for a MakeItGood x FKOF feature. Their mix is a solid selection of dubs from some seriously exciting artists – grab the free download and hit the boys up on Twitter if you’re feeling it!

Who are Stuart Powell & Esstee?

We’re a DJ collective from Birmingham who have been together for about 8 months. Coming up with a name seemed to be too much trouble and this has sort of stuck.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

We started off using Fruity Loops but we’ve recently switched to Ableton Live. We decided to not release many tracks until we have more knowledge of Ableton; so have recently been studying sound synthesis and mastering. We will be releasing some new tracks in due time – once we believe we’ve got the sound that we truly want.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

We started going to a rave called “Goonies” in Birmingham which played dubstep. We had never heard the sound before; this got us interested in the dubstep scene. We both kept on hunting for the latest unknown tunes we could find and before we knew it, we had a pretty decent knowledge of the scene and a good collection of tunes. Esstee had been DJing for a year so we decided to collaborate and release some mixtapes together. Our style is very versatile, we like the deeper side of dubstep but also taking a keen interest in all other areas of the genre – as well as house and future garage. ‘Filth’ is something we stay well away from.

How long have you been producing and DJing? Turntables or CDJs?

We have only been producing for around 6months now so we’re still learning. Esstee started DJing roughly 2 years ago and Stuart about 8months ago with a midi controller (due to limitations of facilities). We both had a limited opportunity to mix whilst using CDJs and timecode vinyl (personal favourite) at a friend’s house for a short period of time. Not long after, Esstee was thrown in the deep end whilst abroad in Zante and got familiar with CDJs whilst in a dubstep event over there. We are both currently refining, perfecting and speeding up our mixing skills on CDJs as we settle for nothing less than the best in every aspect of our music.

What’s the Dubstep/UK Bass scene in Birmingham like?

In the area there are a number of producers who are all up-and-coming and pushing some real unique sounds (ENiGMA Dubz being one to especially watch out for). As far as events are concerned, Birmingham seems to have always been filth-orientated and any acknowledgment of other areas of dubstep seems to be slightly nonexistent. Subway City and the Digbeth area seem to be the best places to get a dubstep night in Birmingham, they are making the genre a lot more popular – which is nice to see but it would be good to see a wider range of dubstep played throughout the city. We would say the 2 biggest events are currently ‘Hype’ which promotes a lot of ‘filth’ artists and ‘Substep’ which plays a variety of dubstep and DnB.

If you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

There are too many to name really but it depends what type of dubstep we are referring to. With regards to deep dubstep, you can’t ignore Youngsta as a DJ and opening for him would really be a pleasure. Other than that we’d love to open for Kromestar simply because we see him as possibly the best producer currently on the scene.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. Kromestar - He’s just so versatile and never fails to make quality music – not forgetting the hundreds of tracks he produces!
2. Skream - Definitely someone to look up to. Listened to him ever since we got into the genre and he is just leading the charge for dubstep as a whole
3. Phaeleh - When referring to production quality and general talent, Phaeleh is definitely someone we can’t forget. By far one of the best producers currently in the scene
4. Kryptic Minds - Hard to know what to say really, they are just amazing producers. Versatility shines threw with these guys and everything we hear from them is just pure quality
5. Dismantle - He’s on the list for coming up with a completely fresh sound and take on dubstep; which seems to be slowly spreading to different producers

What does the future hold for dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

Where we think dubstep is going to go and where we hope it goes is a different story. In our opinion, the commercial and ‘filth’ side of dubstep is necessary as that’s getting dubstep played everywhere from TV programmes & adverts to commercial club nights. We reckon as more commercial fans delve further into dubstep and gain more knowledge they will find out more about underground artists and the non-commercial side of dubstep (which isn’t appreciated as much as it should be). However, problems are occurring as so many names of supposed sub-genres are forming – it’s hard to keep up with (deep medi, dungeon, filth, brostep, post-dubstep etc.) We think that there is a lack of opinion in today’s society of trend followers, as well as a mixture of confusion & producers “selling out” when getting signed to labels. It all leaves commercial fans relying on/ sticking to a subscription they have on a YouTube group as they feel that’s where they will hear the best dubstep, which just isn’t the case. On the other hand though, we think MistaJam will have an influence with his “Daily Dose of Dubstep” which has slowly seen the introduction of deeper DJs/ Producers (such as J:Kenzo) – which will hopefully open doors for commercial fans interested in the other areas of the genre.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

Not yet. As I said, we’re currently just brushing up on our skills until we try and get anything officially released.

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Do a bit of research and gain knowledge in a scene you enjoy. Come with something original, there’s no point trying to make Kromestar/Jakes style bass when they do it so much better. Also, make MUSIC. Anyone can make a beat or a tune but making something that would be classed as music is a different game completely; which is why we appreciate the likes of Von D, Phaeleh and Kryptic Minds to name a few.

Any shoutouts?

Big shoutout to everyone in the OCD & Substep crew. We’d also like to say thanks to a lot of the up-and-coming producers who have supported and trusted us with music from the start including ENiGMA Dubz, Wen and Calski. Finally a shoutout to everyone who follows us and our music, you’re what spurs us on! There is a lot more coming from us so keep your eyes peeled.

If you’ve missed out on SP & ST’s mix, grab the DL and give it a listen below. It’s got an awesome selection of dubs from a seriously impressive mix of producers. The future’s deep and dark for dubstep given the number of new producers popping up all over the place!

Stuart Powell & Esstee x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

Track list:

1. Congi - Alliance [dub] 
2. Arktrix & J-One - Capture [dub] 
3. Author - Revolutions [dub] 
4. Unknown - Untitled [dub] 
5. Compa - Security [forthcoming Area 12] 
6. Submatiks - Influx [dub] 
7. Anex - Counter It [forthcoming Soulstep] 
8. Widowmaker & Digid - Rollin’ [dub] 
9. Brownz - They Don’t Sleep [dub] 
10. Catacombs & Knowledge - Old Town [dub] 
11. Kaiju - Method One 
12. Kahn - Way Mi Defend [Box Clever] 
13. G-A - The Code (Anex remix) 
14. Compa - Put Down The Gun [dub] 
15. Thelem - Distilled [Loft Party Records] 
16. Digid - Final Stand [dub] 
17. Congi - Why [dub] 
18. Nanobyte - The Wrong Path 
19. Anex - Delusions [forthcoming ICU Audio] 
20. Wen - Ground Zero [dub] 
21. Lefty - Crawl [dub]

Let us know what you think of SP + ST’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

We’ve been following the two labels ICU Audio & InnaMind Recordings for a while now. So when we discovered they’d both signed releases from Anex we knew he’d be a talent worth following. We were blown away when we heard one of his most recent uploads to his SoundCloud account (if you’ve not checked ‘The Sixth’ yet get on it!), so grabbed him for an interview with MakeItGood and FKOF. His mix does not disappoint – and the play count in the short time it’s been online reflects that! In the mean time, follow Jon on Facebook and Soundcloud.

Who is Anex?

I’m Jon Boote, a 19 year old dubstep producer from Nottingham.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

I use Reason 5 rewired into Logic!

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

I’ve been into dubstep and DnB for ages now, and I used to collect a lot of DnB on vinyl. I started producing when I was 17; mostly messing around with DnB and such. Around the start of this year, I got into producing dubstep in a serious way and since then I feel I’ve gone from strength to strength. As for my style, I love the dark, rolling basslines – but I don’t think anyone can deny the occasional bit of filth!

How long have you producing and DJing? Turntables or CDJs?

For about 2 years now. I started on vinyl but when I was starting to get more gigs I made the switch to CDJs as it was cheaper for me. I’m still in love with vinyl though, it’s been an obsession of mine since way before I got into mixing.

You’re part of the ICU Audio outfit; how did that relationship come about?

I’ve always been a big respecter of what they do. One day I started following N-Dread on SoundCloud, noticed he had AIM, and decided to send a couple of tunes over to him. He loved them, and since then I’ve gradually built up a friendship with all of the lads – all of whom are the soundest people, and some of the best musicians I have ever come across!

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

I supported Dirtyphonics a few months back for my residency spot at a night called Louder in Nottingham. I loved that! I would love to be on same lineup as someone like Youngsta or Icicle, but we’ll just see what happens in the near future!

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

Just 5?! Its so difficult, there are so many producers that are doing it for me.. I apologise to anyone I haven’t mentioned!

1. eleven8 first of all, as he’s a downright amazing producer, but also a sound fella. Everyone should check him out! Keep an eye out for his forthcoming 12” releases…
2. My Nu Leng are up there among my favourites, they have so many ideas for tunes, and I love how different each of their creations is! They never produce the same track twice and I love that.
3. Congi absolutely HAVE to be checked out by everyone. They’re a duo from Nottingham, and their tunes are downright stupid. They’ve got an album’s worth of tunes already, and it keeps growing. Keep an eye out for a tune of theirs called “The Hidden Cove” which I played guitar for.
4. Pheral are a duo from Belgium who are producing the weightiest tunes going at the moment. I feel lucky that they’re sending me tunes, because each one of them is a stinker!
5. Last, but not least, Fable from Nottingham. One of my best friends, and also one of the most talented guys in Notts. He’s had an amazing 2011 so far, playing in Canada, getting a tune out on vinyl… You need to keep a beady eye on this fella, he’s just going to go up and up.

What does the future hold for dubstep - where do you see the genre going?

Who can say? I honestly don’t know, all I know is that for now, things are looking good for the underground side of the genre. There’s so much talent here and everyone’s friends too. It’s like a family vibe all round!

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

‘Counter It’ and ‘Kinetic’ come out as some point on Soulstep Records, I’m not entirely sure on the date though. ‘Delusions’ came out on the 21st, the first release on ICU:Audio, backed with ‘Rowl - Resolution’. Check out the ICU:Audio Wordpress for more information. Will be released digitally through junodownload!

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

The best advice I can give anyone is that music is a people business, so talk to people. Make the connections early and it will set you in good stead for your career. Also, do whatever makes you happy. If you have to TRY and produce a tune, it’s probably not going to work for you, so just find something you find easy. It’s more than likely the right thing for you. I would just quickly like to say a huge thank you to everyone whose shown me support over the past year, I feel I’ve gained so much publicity thank to all of my friends and fellow producers.

You know a mix is going to be superb when it includes tracks from Kryptic Minds, Tallan, Catacombs, Perverse, SP:MC & LX One, Percept and a loads more. My jaw almost dropped the first time I listened to Anex’s guest mix for MakeItGood and FatKidOnFire all the way through – get it on the stereo and you’ll know what I mean…

Anex x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

Track list:

1. Catacombs & Knowledge – Old Town [Dub] 
2. Kahn – Way Mi Defend [Box Clever] 
3. Perverse – Cerberus [Dub] 
4. Tallan – Cirrus [Dub] 
5. Occult – Assassins [Dub] 
6. Pheral – Hatchway [Dub] 
7. Anex – Counter It [Soulstep] 
8. SP:MC & LX One – Hunted [Tempa] 
9. Pheral – Untitled [Dub] 
10. Anex – Delusions [ICU:Audio] 
11. Fable – Dark Cubes [Dub] 
12. Congi – Mya [Dub] 
13. Versa & Rowl – Backwards Never [Dub] 
14. Percept – Corrupt [Innamind] 
15. G-A & Fable – Fear [Play No Games] 
16. Kryptic Minds – Six Degrees [Swamp81] 
17. Anex – Demonise [Innamind]

Let us know what you think of Anex’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

Tonight sees us offer one lucky person the chance to win 2 guest list ticketsto GetDarker’s xmas party this Friday at Cable nightclub, London. 

All you have to do is:

1. ‘LIKE’ our facebook page - http://facebook.com/makeitgoodblog
2. Email us your name to: makeitgoodblog@gmail.com

and we will pick one lucky winner. Simple! The competition will close at 2PM on Friday 2/12/11. 

The line up for Friday is insane, so get entering! For more information on the event, check out the facebook event page. 

Today’s interviewee continues the strong trend of wicked mixes and interviews! I first heard about Manchester’s Qualmsound from Blynk, who’s guaranteed to get me looking at any links he passes on. I was seriously impressed with Lee’s bits so offered him a feature! Find Qualmsound online, on Soundcloud, Twitter and Facebook. Grab the free download below and let me know if you think I made the right call!

Who is Qualm Sound?

Real name Lee Miley (Age 20), Qualmsound is a Manchester-based music producer.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

Originally I came from a grime background; I used to produce a lot of grime and mix a little with school mates who also DJed. After a while of doing that, it became an ambition of mine to have my music noticed and released, but by the time I came to the realisation I felt that grime had faded. It just seemed to be the natural progression to move over to dubstep. I began trying to write the ‘filthy as possible’ tracks but it just didn’t seem to fit my style, I always preferred something with meaning and melody. Around this time I discovered a much deeper side to the genre, now I’m trying to explore this without sticking to the ‘rules’ of any set genre.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

At the moment I’m using Propellerhead Reason 5 but I’m feeling like this is holding me back a little. For this reason, I’m saving for my first iMac so I can move over to Logic. The ability to use plugins and the simplicity of the DAW is sucking me in.

How long have you producing and DJing?

I started messing around with FL Studio when I was around 14 so that makes it 6 years ago. I only really started to take it seriously around 3 years ago though and it’s only this year that Qualmsound began. It’s a much more recent thing that I’ve started DJing, I have dabbled in the past but I’m cracking on and getting my head into the turntables now.

Turntables or CDJs?

For me both have the bonuses and drawbacks but you simply can’t beat the feel of using vinyl. But it just doesn’t seem practical to be lugging around a box – especially when you can fit thousands of tracks into a small CD wallet.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

At this moment I haven’t played out anywhere but I’m hoping to start very soon. There isn’t really anyone I aspire to DJ alongside really. For me I just want to be able to play out and have people hear my tracks with the buzz of doing a live set.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

It’s really difficult to pick only five but;

1. Synkro – Everything this guy does just seems to make sense. He has a massive influence on my music
2. Arkist – Loving the way Arkist pushes boundaries
3. Author – A recent discovery of mine; I’m really feeling their LP
4. Biome – Biome is killing it at the minute. He is really going to push on this year, you could even say he already has done
5. Jon Hopkins – Another recent discovery of mine, wouldn’t really say he makes dubstep though but he isn’t locked into any set genres.

Some other notable producer for me: Indigo, Blynk, Modepth, Paleman, Essay, ASA, Sorrow and James Blake.

What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

This is such a difficult question to even begin to answer! I can definitely see a change in more recent times, people seem to be rediscovering the roots of the genre and exploring them in new ways. In my opinion, there has been a big step away from the full-on filth that was growing. I really like the whole new “future garage” scene. I’ve also noticed another side of dubstep slowly branching into a more commercial style for the masses.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

At the moment, there’s nothing to announce but I’m working on some new material that I’m hoping will take some label’s fancy. I recently had my first Digital release on Soulstep Records’ ‘Genesis EP’. It features two of my tracks and also has a remix on there from Blynk. Check my free download ‘Listen EP’ – that features 11 tracks. Hopefully there will be plenty more to come!

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Nothing too in depth just some simple advice… Keep at what you’re doing and don’t be afraid to explore past the boundaries.

I thoroughly recommend jumping on this one. Lee’s 32 minute mix features a great selection of producers/ tracks and a nice amount of dubs. Can’t really argue with that! Hit Qualmsound up on Twitter if you’re feeling it.

Qualmsound x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

Track list:

1. Qualmsound – Recapitulation [Dub] 
2. Synkro – She Said [Pushing Red] 
3. Biome – Space [Black Box] 
4. Arkist – Appleseed [Dub] 
5. Qualmsound – Breath [Soulstep] 
6. Synkro – Tribe [Box Clever] 
7. Kahn – Azalea [Box Clever] 
8. Zadeh – Red to Blue (Qualmsound Remix) [Dub] 
9. Commodo – Uprising [Deep Medi] 
10. Qualmsound – Ethereal [Soulstep] 
11. Arkist – Fill My Coffee [Apple Pips] 
12. Xxxy – Constant [Mindset] 
13. Modepth – Body of Light [Dub] 
14. Synkro – Look At Yourself [Mindset] 
15. Qualmsound – To You [Free]

Let us know what you think of Qualmsound’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

This Friday sees the Licked Beatz gang take over Cable for a night of utter madness! Promising a night of Dubstep, Jungle, DnB, Grime (and everything in between), as well as a massive line up, its set to be a big night. 

Full line up : CONGO NATTY FEAT. TENOR FLY, NANCI, PHOEBE & CONGO DUBS, THE BUG FEAT. FLOWDAN & DADDY FREDDY, HATCHA (Kiss FM / Sin City), DILLINJA (Valve), D1 (Dub Police), BENNY PAGE (Digital Soundboy), TERROR DANJAH & TRIM (Hyperdub/Butterz/Hardrive), SEVEN (Subway/Black Box), RUDE KID B2B SPOOKY (No Hats No Hoods), ROSSI B AND LUCA (Heavy Artillery), RATTUS RATTUS (Urban Nerds), SLUGZ & BOYSON (Dub Pack/Swagger/Vagabondz), DOZY & BUCKONE (Merk Chicken), OFFKEY B2B DUBSON (Licked Beatz/Momentum/Regulate), BENNY DIGITAL & TOM ROCCO (Licked Beatz/Hyper Hyper), PUKE B2B FIGURE8 (Licked Beatz)

Bar Room: J.K.L // V DUBS & SCI PHI // KAI MARLEY // HUTCH // SAMSON & MORE!!

Advanced tickets are £12 and are available here and there will be MOTD (£15). For more info, check out the Facebook event page. 

The MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire feature series has been a long and extremely enjoyable journey of amazing producers and even better mixes. But today, as we reach the 75th interview and guest mix, MakeItGood and FKOF have teamed up with one of the best DJs out there and have gone all out to celebrate reaching #75… Vandera properly came to my attention when he featured in The Daily Street’s mixtape series. His mix featured 60 tracks, came in at 60 minutes and consisted entirely of tracks in the C-minor key. A concept so astoundingly technical that you’re almost too scared to listen in case it doesn’t live up to how good you think it might sound. Needless to say, Vandera’s TDS mix was amazing. It’s a huge, huge honour to welcome Vandera and a fitting way to celebrate the 75th mixtape. As always, find Vandera on Facebook and Twitter and let him know if you’re as blown away by his FatKidOnFire x MakeItGood mix as we are!

[Vandera’s brain]

Who is Vandera?

M, 28, Dutch Londoner, 6’, 72kg, type T personality, Neuroscientist, AKA Vandera, GSOH AFAIK, produce and mix bassful music with TLC since ’98.

What got you into mixing and producing music?

I played the synthesizer as a kid and, instead of learning to play Abba as my teacher told me to, I was just tweaking the flanger and echo DSP filters on my Technics KN2000 keyboard. I remember I was 11 and improvising with cheesy 90s piano chords and trying to programme drum breaks with the sound bank’s jazz kit. I listened to a lot of house, collected all the Turn Up The Bass cassettes, but it was The Prodigy that ignited my love for breakbeats when I heard ‘One Love’ on my Mega Bass Walkman. I had an infinite amount of respect for electronic music producers. It was kind of a no-brainer to buy decks, learn PC sequencers etc.

How long have you been producing and DJing? Do you use turntables or CDJs – which do you prefer?

It was an obsession with Drum & Bass that got me into DJing. I got some cheap belt drives in ’98 and spent all my money on Good Looking Records and Moving Shadow vinyl. Hospital artists and producers like Klute were big influences to my style then. I love to browse the Discogs market and collect all those classics on vinyl. At home I still play a lot of vinyl, nothing compares to it really. But yes, gigs I do on CDJs now. The demise of vinyl has been dreadful; it’s become an ancient hobby for most of us! But yeah CDs are cheap, light, easy, blahblahblah. I’ll always buy vinyl though!

How would you describe your sound mixes?

I think about the structure of my mixes like I think about my songs; in 16 bar chunks where sound evolves constantly. The theme of my last mix (which you can download here) was to showcase 60 tracks in 60 minutes, all in C-minor. While that mix was one continuous smooth trip, my MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire mix goes through different keys, different tempos and different energy levels. The first half is a good representation of what I play at gigs, from 4x4 to amens to half-step.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

Playing alongside the Russians, Giant and Exponaut, in St. Petersburg last winter was incredible. Would be wicked to play alongside Blu Mar Ten someday, I just need to chase and sort out some more gigs here in London.

Who are your top 5 labels and producers at the moment; who’s releasing the best music or deserves attention?

Echodub has been releasing amazing EPs lately, and the guys from Convoy Unltd will soon hit the ground running with their label. In terms of producers, I’m currently feeling Aeolho’s tunes, and Actraiser’s deep stuff is always spot on. Also, the creativity and producion techniques of Blu Mar Ten are just awe inspiring. They have probably influenced my production style the most. Quite excited they want to release a Vandera remix/mashup of one of their tunes in the near future. To be honest though, there are so many musicians deserving more attention out there. Check some of the unknown artists I follow on SoundCloud to hear what I mean.

What does the future hold for UK bass music - where do you see the genre going?

No idea, but there will always be good music. The bass music genre is (in my opinion) the most progressive and diverse scenes in electronic music. Dubstep/ chillout/ garage/ techno, there’s a lot you can do around 140bpm.

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Work on your track ‘til it’s perfect, you just need one tune to catch everyone’s attention. Send your best work through AIM/SoundCloud to the labels and DJs you think could represent your sound and see what happens. I listen to everything people sent me through AIM (vanderamusic) and check every new SoundCloud follower. If it’s good I’ll play it at gigs and in studio mixes. What’s forthcoming from Vandera? Besides some scientific papers on radiation and the brain’s response to methamphetamine, there’s a 12” of ‘Move On’ that’s just released on Subdepth Records with a remix by Dream on the flip. Another 12” with a tune called ‘Carbon 11’ is coming out very soon on Bassism records b/w a remix by the talented Coleco. And finally, the collab track with Lostlojic (‘Volt’) is out on Paradise Lost in a few weeks. In the long-term, the plan is to make lots of money by discovering a non-addictive and safe compound with the same mood-enhancing properties as MDMA. I’ll get regulatory approval, hire Walter White to cook and sell it all, and with the profits I’ll setup a quality record label. All I need is some human test-subjects and some good dubs to sign and release. Hit me up on SoundCloud.

[Vandera’s DNA]

This is without a doubt the one of the best mixes we’ve ever had the pleasure of featuring. 45 tracks, one hour and a seamless combination of bass music subgenres. It does not get any better than this. Grab the download, spread the word and thank Vandera if you’re feeling this truly astounding piece of musical mastery.

Vandera - FatKidOnFire Mixtape by vandera

Track list:

01 Poets of Thought - The Rhyme Goes On [-Earth-] 
02 DFRNT - Remember When [-Forthcoming Subdepth-] 
03 M.I.A. - Sunshowers [-XL-] 
04 Regent & Riskotheque - What I Feel Like Doing [-dUb-] 
05 Von D Feat. Foreign Beggars & Spyda - Maximum Boost [-Boka-] 
06 Lung & Maxx Roach - Booty Call [-Deadplate-] 
07 Vandera – Scanners [-Stoke Audio-] 
08 Daft Punk - Revolution 909 [-Virgin-] 
09 Actraiser - Infidel [-dUb-] 
10 Vandera & Lostlojic - Volt [-Forthcoming Paradise Lost-] 
11 The Prodigy - Narayan [-XL-] 
12 Headhunter - In Motion [-Tempa-] 
13 Coleco - Hypnagogia [-Forthcoming Soul Motive-] 
14 Vandera - India Joya [-Echodub-] 
15 Isotroph - Crossroads [-Echodub-] 
16 DFRNT - Headspace (Scuba Remix) [-On The Edge-] 
17 By Proxy - 68 (Vandera Remix) [-Car Crash Set-] 
18 Vandera - Move On VIP [-Subdepth-] 
19 Vandera - Move On [-Subdepth-] 
20 Actraiser - Solstice (Vandera Remix) [-Subdepth-] 
21 Stumbleine - Ember (Sorrow Remix) [-Free-] 
22 Vandera - Pure Light [-dUb-] 
23 Think Feat. Novika - Short Warm Moments [-New Moon-] 
24 Actraiser - The Watcher [-Gradient Audio-] 
25 Dub FX - Intentions [-Convoy Unltd-] 
26 Yoru - That Old Thing [-Forthcoming Rudimentary-] 
27 Rain Dog - One to Love [-Cut-] 
28 Arkist - Trapped in Tivoli [-DecaRythm-] 
29 Rusko - Kumon Kumon [-Mad Decent-] 
30 Kraak & Smaak - Danse Macabre [-Jalapeno Music-] 
31 The Prodigy - One Love [-XL-] 
32 Giant - Party Starter [-Hench-] 
33 Animistics - Sax Step [-dUb-] 
34 Cyrus - Manhattan Blues [-Deep Medi-] 
35 Oceania - Sleeping in Time Machine [-dUb-] 
36 Different Frequencies - Whatever Next (Animistics Remix) [-Unpopular Music-] 
37 Silkie - Lucky [-Deep Medi-] 
38 Lung & Maxx Roach - Crisbuit [-Deadplate-] 
39 Nitin Sawhney - Nadia [-Zomba-] 
40 Andy ‘Sax’ - Hornsman’s Share [-Nuff Powa-] 
41 Shareholder Tom - Single Warrior (Oceania Remix) [-Forthcoming Monkey Dub-] 
42 UFO - Kiwi Mango [-Subdepth-] 
43 Funk D’Void - Diabla (Vandera Remix) [-dUb-] 
44 The Prodigy - Smack My Bitch Up [-XL-] 
45 Vandera & Red Eyes - Northern Lights [-dUb-]

Let us know what you think of Vandera’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

It’s been a busy week as far as our MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire features goes (mind you, the content elsewhere’s been ok too). Today brings the 74th feature of the series – with an extremely exciting young producer from Oxford – and Monday will see the launch of our 75th. We’re three quarters of the way towards reaching 100 guest mixes/ interviews. Madness! To celebrate, there’s what is quite possibly the best mix I’ve ever heard/ will have released through FKOF accompanied by an equally awesome interview. No solid clues yet, but the producer’s Dutch. We’re stoked to have got Jobai involved in the MIG x FKOF series. He produced one of my favourite tunes from this year (if you’ve not yet checked ‘Uncovered’ shame on you) and has even gone as far as producing an exclusive tune to go with this interview. How awesome is that? Dave also produces dubstep/ DnB which you can check here. Labels, pay attention. Someone needs to sign this guy!

Who is Jobai?

Dave McCormack from Oxford, UK.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

I use Logic pro 9 as a sequencer from start to finish, and use various VST’s such as NI Massive and MiniMonsta. Logic has some really good built-in instruments for creating soft and warm synths, so I tend to use those a fair bit.

What got you into mixing and producing music?

I first got into mixing when I was about 18. After going out to dubstep and DnB nights in Oxford, and seeing that everyone was having a sick time playing out, I wanted to get involved.

How would you describe your sound?

I find it hard to really ‘hear’ my own sound, so describing it becomes difficult - hopefully it’s relaxing.

How long have you producing and DJing? Turntables or CDJs?

I’ve been on DJing since I was about 19 – I got into producing a little later. I’ve always preferred vinyl as I started on a second hand pair of Numark turntables, but getting hold of tunes on vinyl isn’t always easy. So now now I’m using virtual vinyl.

Are there any producers you are listening to at the moment that we should be looking out for?

If you haven’t already - you need to check out a guy named Grifta. He’s an excellent producer who’s tunes are full of melody and big basslines, great to listen to anytime. You can check him out on Soundcloud.

What does the future hold for UK bass music - where do you see the genre going?

UK bass-driven music is huge at the moment, and new artists are popping up everywhere with new and exciting styles. I think its going to continue to explore new avenues of the genre for sometime, and that’s pretty exciting.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

Currently nothing that I confirm right now, but keep you out for something in the new year…

This free track we were on about? ‘No Sleep’ follows along from where ‘Uncovered’ left off – but doesn’t hold back on any of the awesomeness that you’ll hear in ‘Uncovered’. Grab the free download, play it out, spread Jobai’s name far and wide and let him know if you’re feeling it. I definitely am!

Uncovered by Jobai

Jobai - No Sleep (FKOF free download) by FatKidOnFire

Click to DOWNLOAD

Let us know what you think of Jobai’s interview and tracks via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

On Friday 2nd December the Royal Hotel in Southend will be taken over by the Scruffy Hoodlum gang who are celebrating their 3rd birthday with a huge lineup!!

Starting from humble beginnings, the Scruffy Hoodlum crew have come a long way from their highly memorable launch party event which took place on a boat on the Thames what seems like only a short time ago. Having moved originally to Plan B in Brixton but now finding their new home in Southend the event has grown considerably, playing hosts to some of the UK’s best underground DJs such as Oneman, Lost, Macabre Unit, Slimzee, Afterdark, J Da Flex, and of course Biome last month to name but a few. Not forgetting the record label which already has 2 releases available from Fused Forces & Vista….

It’s not surprising then, that the 3rd birthday celebrations will be bigger and better still with a showcase of the cream of underground bass music which they represent…

J:KENZO (Tempa)
BENTON (Wheel & Deal)
LX ONE (Osiris Music)
FUSED FORCES
MILITANT
D CULT
BIG O
SUICIDE SOUND
MENDIX & RNS
MINIUM

S-DOT & STUTA

9PM - 5AM
£6 Before 10.30pm £8 After

FACEBOOK EVENT LINK

For a taster of the kind of vibes to expect, listen to Biome’s set from the last event

Biome @ Scruffy Hoodlum - 4th Nov 2011 by Scruffy_Hoodlum on Mixcloud

Follow Scruffy Hoodlum on Facebook, Twitter & Mixcloud

Better Never Than Late are running a competition for one lucky winner to DJ at their next event on Decemeber 2nd. 

All you need to do is send a 15 minute mix to INFO@BNTL.CO.UK either through your Soundcloud, a file hosting site or Mixcloud.The closing date for entries is 25th November, to give them time to listen to everything and pick a winner. The winner will be notified by email on Monday 28th November. Get going! 

This Friday sees Wax:On and Snowbombing take over Digital Newcastle to bring you a massive rave before they go off to the Austrian mountains to party even more! With such a wicked line up, we suggest you go get your tickets, and fast! Standard tickets are £12 and are available here. 

For more info, check out the facebook event page. This night is going to go off, so make sure you don’t miss out!

Today sees us release another MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire feature, and this time it’s with 45hertzofbass main man, Arktrix. Also part of the Sub Lab collective and Innamind Recordings, its safe to say he’s making moves in the right directions. Check out Arktrix Twitter, Soundcloud and Facebook to keep up to date! Peep the interview below, and be sure to download his guest mix, is a big one! 

1. So, what is Arktrix?

A bunch of cut up words I thought sounded good when I was a little bit drunk to be honest. Nothing more than that really.

2. How long have you been producing for, and what got you into it?

I got into it via the internet and a few friends locally who hit London ocassionally for nights out. I’ve made music on and off for four years, but only really taking it seriously in regards to sound design in the past eighteen months. I’d produced some ambient stuff and some 90’s style hip hop before that, but it was shockingly bad. 

3. What software do you use?

Fl Studio/Ableton

4. Turntables or CDJ’s?

Turntables. Though I’m starting to learn to use CDJ’s for if I start playing out a bit more regularly. 

5. If you could play alongside any DJ, who would it be, and why?

The million dollar question that I don’t really have an answer for. There are too many artists I’d want to open for. 

6. Your also part of the Sub Lab collective, tell us a little about that…

Just keep your eyes open, thats all I’m saying. SLAB002 will be coming soon.

7. Top 5 producers/DJ’s and why?

- Kryptic Minds: Their d&b and dubstep is impeccably produced and their mixes are always brilliant. Quality control through the roof also.

- J-One: Local guy thats helped me a lot. His beats are all over the place genre wise, but he’s got a signature sound and its properly nice. Phaeleh was kind enough to put his debut album out for him, so I think that says enough! 

- W3n: Another local who I’ve been friends with for a while. Puts out some dark minimal tunes of all genres. One to keep an eye on for sure.

- Mosaix: Skillful mixer with blends for days. He’s got a proper flowing selection whilst also being able to smash the dancefloor stuff as well.

- J:Kenzo: He has always made quality tunes. Melodic, tear out, spacious, whatever he does it all well and they all smash the dance. 

8. Any advice to those starting out producing or DJing?

Find some like minded heads that you can bounce ideas around with and ask for advice. If it weren’t for J-One and W3N giving pointers here and there, I think my beats would be WAY worse than they are now.

Track list:

Arktrix & J-One – Capture 
J:Kenzo & Mosaix – Alone In The Darkness 
Perverse – Mutiny 
Arktrix – Shifty (Vip) 
Sleeper – The 2nd Step 
Arktrix – Creeper 
Perverse – Resistance
Reamz – Fear
Sleeper & District – Dungeon Style
Thelem – Waiting Hour
District – Gutter
Wen – Lo Fidelity (Refix)

Let us know what you think of Arktrix’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

Over the next few weeks, there’s a pretty impressive backlog of MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire guest mixes and interviews that’ll slowly start seeing the light of day. I do say it a lot, but there’s so much quality content in here that you’ll not want to miss it! Our next one is with Croydon’s L.A. Boxers. These two guys have been tearing up many a dancefloor for the past few years, and as you’ll discover by listening to their MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire mix, are more than skilled in brilliantly mixing a selection of house, dubstep and garage together. Peep the full interview and mix below – and once you’re done, follow Alex and Rob on Twitter and Facebook.

Who are the L.A. Boxers?

Alex Day (DJ) & Rob Webb (Producer) from Croydon.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

Well I (Alex) used to DJ garage back when it was really big in the early 2000s. I was more of a bedroom DJ than anything else, but I used to buy all of my tracks from Big Apple Records, and still have all the vinyl dotted around my house. Rob has always been into more urban music, used to produce hip-hop mix tapes for artists such as D Block, Jadakiss etc. We were introduced to each other around 5 years ago by a mutual friend, but didn’t start making music together until about 3 years ago. We were both interested in all styles of dance music. Being from Croydon, we were always quite aware of the dubstep sound and its origins. It was a fresh sound and we were really enjoyed it. So we naturally wanted to make some ourselves. We like the bassier end of the sound, but enjoy a bit of tear-out too. Our sets are always a mixture of dubstep, house and garage though.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

We use Logic studio mixed with a bit of Reason. Well, Rob uses this software and I do all the DJing.

Turntables or CDJs?

As much as we’d love to still be able to play vinyl out, it’s all about the CDJs. Playing such diverse sets, it’s easier to take a couple 100 CDs than it is the same amount of vinyl.

How long have you producing and DJing?

I’ve been DJing since about the age 14/15 (so 11 years ago) – although I did stop for quite a few years. Rob has been producing since about the age of 15 (so 8 years or so).

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

This was probably our first headline set for a night called Ramadance in Southend. It was at the top of a pub, and they had twice as many people there as should have been in there. The place was rammed, they had got a big sound system in, first headline set, and playing out of town. Great night and we have made lots of friends down in Southend now too. We’ve actually played with people that would be on that list, the likes of Hatcha, Plastician, Jakes, Zinc etc. But would be great to play with some of our other heroes like Zed Bias & DJ Cut Chemist or current big stars such as Maya Jane Coles, Bodikka, Oneman & Jackmaster. They’re playing the sort of sounds we’re really into at the moment.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. Widowmaker – fresh sounds coming from a fresh talent. He’s got a lot of knowledge and ideas and is doing things the right way.
2. Benton – we used to be residents at a night with him in Epsom a couple of years back and he has come an amazingly long way in such a short space of time. Everyone knows his name now and he is making some amazing stuff.
3. Pistonsbeneath – Really helped to get us into dubstep (through running the now defunct DubKulture in Croydon). Now making his own tracks which are slowly and deservedly gaining recognition.
4. Joy O – Making and pushing the more house-y sound which we really like. Everyone has a Joy O track they like, even my friends that don’t really like or follow bass music do!
5. Eyela Beret/ Hiloxam – Guy that I have met through dubstepforum. He produces under 2 names at the moment. But he is putting out some really great music; lots of different vibes. Definitely one to keep an eye out for.

What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

I think the genre will continue to grow and expand in lots of different directions; as it already is. There will be the more filthier side of things, but the deep side will continue to grow with people like Biome, Killawatt, Tunnidge, Fused Forces and the ones listed above pushing the sound. The Swamp81 sound will continue to grow as well, and thats the kind of vibes that we are going to be pushing.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

We have just finished a remix for a band called Pure Reason Revolution who have been around for nearly 10 years. That will hopefully be feature on a War Child charity album, and we have also done a track with a new singer called Kelly Pepper who seems to be going places. Hopefully we should be getting some Radio 1 plays off the back of that one. Nothing is signed yet, but if it does well then there’s always that possibility.

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Our advice would be to never give up. Not everybody makes it big straight away. Keep working hard, keep making contacts & friends in the industry, but at the end of the day just enjoy it!

As we eluded to earlier, the L.A. Boxers guest mix is an awesome selection of big tunes from a mix of bass music genres. Starting with a house vibe and ending near the deeper end of 140bpm that we love, this mix couldn’t really get any better for dropping on a Saturday. Get involved and, as always, let us know what you think!

L.A. Boxers x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

 

Track list:

1. Rufa - Hungry Lynching (Hutyluty remix) 
2. Osunlade - Envision (Dixon Version) 
3. L.A. Boxers ft. Claudia Miles - Forever Night 
4. Maya Jane Coles - Humming Bird 
5. De-Real - Owed 
6. Unknown - Sicko Cell (Squareheads Rehab refix) 
7. Beverley Knight - Shoulda Woulda Coulda (DND 4 2 da Floor Mix) 
8. Brim - Hurt You 
9. Phaeleh - Afterglow (Eyela Beret Bootleg) 
10. Killawat - Capa 
11. Reamz - Fear 
12. Widowmaker - Heihachi 
13. Pistonsbeneath - Resonate 
14. Freight - Creeper 
15. Benton - 20/20 
16. Eyela Beret - Niribu 
17. Probert & L.A. Boxers - Crimson Dub 
18. Clifford - Humble Dub 
19. Boxmouse - 5:37 Outside The Tube (Phrex remix)

Let us know what you think of L.A. Boxers interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

‘The 25th of November 2011 will see Audio Doughnuts host their birthday celebrations at one of South London’s best kept secrets - Vauxhall’s ‘Hidden’ - as part of the highly anticipated Found series. The line-up hosted by the Audio Doughnuts family features a selection of names that sit comfortably alongside the rest of the Found line-up - featuring more then 150 of the most thrilling names to have blessed the electronic music scene in the past few years’. 

Advanced tickets are available for £10 here but there will be MOTD. This night is set to be a huge one, and having had four sell out nights, we suggest you get down early to guarantee entry! For more info check out the Facebook event. We hope to see as many of you down there, it’s going to go off!

Saturday was a quiet one for a little Swedish venue called Röda Sten. Up until 10pm that is, and then sh!t went mental. We’re still reeling at how good FatKidOnFire, MakeItGood and Dubstep Bastards’ first excursion was – but for those of you that missed it, fear not, as we’ll be running more in 2012. Sweden definitely knows how to party! In the mean time, we’re extremely excited to continue our run of features with FatKidOnFire. Tonight sees us sit down with the man behind one of the most exciting labels we’ve seen in a long time. Innamind Recordings (IMR) has been making large moves with some of the best producers at the deep end of 140bpm. With the effort going into supporting the producers they are (how does this read as an artist list? Percept, Perverse, Gantz, Arktrix, J-One, Content, Dr Hugo, Formless, Wheeler, Ghostnote, Anex, Wen, Duckem, Server, JB(ROOT)!!), we’re stoked to have KurskOne down for a chat and were blown away by the guest mix! Check IMR on Facebook, Twitter and Soundcloud and keep watch. IMR are ones to watch.

Who and what is Innamind Recordings?

Innamind Recordings is a new label created and owned by me, KurskOne. The label focuses on the deep, dark, minimal sound of things around 140bpm.

What led to you starting the label? Considering you run the label on your own, how has setting up and getting the label exposure been for you so far? Is it something you’d recommend doing?

Starting and running my own (and hopefully successful!) label is something I have always wanted to do – ever since I started getting into this sound. I have always felt (and more so recently) that there’s a huge number of artists sitting on mountains of dubs and nothing is really happening with them. As well as releasing these tunes, I want to select fresh material I personally feel and think others will like as well. I often hear so many tunes from artists out there on Soundcloud, through mixes etc and wonder why they havn’t been picked up yet. So my aim with IMR is to give these artists the recognition they deserve, hopefully get people more aware of them and to get people to play their music out on a big system. I feel the artists I chosen for Innamind have amazing skills in the production of their tunes and people (as well as myself) are really feeling their music. With regards to setting up Innamind, it’s been a lot of fun; the ball seems to be starting to move now which is exciting and the support I have been getting is really appreciated. I would definitely recommend starting a label to someone – but I think it’s something that involves a lot of time and you have to be serious about it to try and make it work.

Who’s currently on your roster?

Currently I am building up a strong crew of artists. The first release is an 8 track compilation that will be showcasing the sound the label is supporting. On the compilation are tunes from Perverse, Percept, Arktrix & J-One, Dr Hugo, Gantz, Formless, Ghost Note and Wheeler. There are a few other artists who I’ve been talking to about joining IMR that I am quite excited about, but nothing’s set in concrete just yet.

With so many Djs embracing digital, there seems to be a gradual move away from traditional vinyl releases from labels these days. What are your thoughts on this?

Well for me I will always buy and mix vinyl; it’s something I really appreciate and I love collecting and building my selection of tunes. I feel quite sad about how lots of people are turning to digital but with how the times are at the moment (people not catering for the vinyl DJ etc) that number is only going to increase. Luckily there is still a large number of people like me that will keep buying and playing wax. I do wish people would make a bit more of an effort for the DJ’s wanting to play vinyl, it sounds and feels a lot nicer. As a new label, I will try hard to build a strong base and then it’s my dream to move to vinyl when the time is right. I have some tunes in mind that I’d love to put out on wax sooner rather that later, but we’ll just have to see how things are going a little further down the track.

Do you think you will stick to releasing dubstep, or can you see the label releasing other genres in the future?

I think for the foreseeable future I will stick to this type of sound. There is a big amount of producers coming up that are making a large array of tunes, the standard is very high and I am loving that. As long as they keep making the tunes and I keep loving them, I’ll keep releasing. I also really have a feel for the tribal type of things like Shackleton’s stuff – ‘Tribe’ by Tunnidge is a serious, serious tune.

What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

To be honest, I think there is a large amount of rubbish being made these days, some of it I don’t even have any idea how you could even call it ‘dubstep’, let the masses follow that. I think it’s better if they do! To me, the style I am into is alive kicking, most of the tunes I am hearing are serious and the calibre is very high so I don’t see it ending any time soon.

Any new releases we can look forward to? Any events lined up that we should get excited about?

Apart from the compilation there isn’t anything set really, just talks and ideas. But I want to continue to support the artists that I have on board already and release some artist EPs from them. I’ve also got some other artists in the pipeline so I would like to keep the compilations rolling every now and then and get some good material out. I want to keep the releases rolling and try not to have such a big gap in between releases. As for gigs, I might have a set later this month in Delhi and maybe a set back in Auckland in December.

Any advice to upcoming Producers/ Djs trying to get signed?

Go hard. Find the sound you love and feel represents you best and go for it. If you are planning on sending some tunes to a label, take your time, don’t rush and don’t send anyone that could select your tune as a ‘VIP’ unless you are already on their label. They probably hear a load of wicked music already and want to hear the finished piece. Send them something you are very happy with and think will compete with what they are releasing already. Take the criticism they give you as positive and just keep making what you are into. Final thoughts? If people want to keep track of whats going on with the artists and the releases etc they can check the Facebook page or follow on Soundcloud, there will be clips of releases and some mixes up on there soon! Cheers for the interview man and big up for holding down a wicked blog – I love reading it and always good articles [big ups man, thanks for the kind words]!

The Innamind Recordings guest mix is unbelievable – it features some of our favourite producers and some of the biggest tracks from 2011. Tearout stuff! Get on Twitter and shout KurskOne if you’re feeling it!

Innamind Recordings x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

Track list: 

1. Formless - Hidden Realm [forthcoming InnamindRecordings] 
2. Wheeler - Enigma [forthcoming InnamindRecordings] 
3. Arktrix - Poison Frog (dub) 
4. Wen - Fossil (dub) 
5. Formless - Paradox (dub) 
6. Perverse - Mutiny (dub) 
7. Percept - Corrupt [forthcoming InnamindRecordings] 
8. Duckem - Truth Seeker (dub) 
9. Dr Hugo - Nightfall (dub) 
10. Wheeler - Static (dub) 
11. Gantz - Choke [forthcoming InnamindRecordings]

Let us know what you think Innamind Recordings interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

We’re going to keep the introduction to this MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire feature brief, purely because the next interviewee/ mix doesn’t need much of one. We’ve been digging the sound coming out of the islands on the southern hemisphere for a good few months now, and tonight we have the pleasure of sitting down with Boot – one of the best of the bunch. Don’t believe us? Read the interview and listen to the mix, you’ll understand what we mean!

Who is Boot?

My name is Tim, I live on the Central Coast of NSW, Australia (about an hour north of Sydney). I enjoy video games, reading sci-fi, fantasy & Al Jazeera and cooking killer vegetarian meals. I’m also hopelessly addicted to writing music.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

Well I’ve always been playing and writing music, I’ve played the violin since I was 6, have played guitar for about 15 years now and was in all sorts of bands growing up. I got into DnB around 2000; the really techy sh!t like Konflict, Stakka & Skynet, Teebee etc. It was through a local weekly DnB night that I first heard dubstep in 2005. We used to have a different crew running the night every week and once every few weeks a dubstep crew would run it, either Southern Steppa or Garage Pressure (which included Paul & Farj who run Aquatic Lab, as well as Moving Ninja). I always enjoyed it but it was only really after I started hearing some Distance, Vex’d, Milanese – that I realised the potential that was there. So yeah, the vibe I’m on is dark techy business; but I try to make it my music stand out by using interesting instrumentation, harmonic techniques, my own mixdown style etc.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

I’m in Cubase 5, I’ve always been a Cubase head. I’ve dabbled in things like Live & Logic – which are fantastic programs, but I can just work so quickly in Cubase. I work mainly in audio and that’s where it really shines. I have a Virus TI Snow that gets used on everything I do and I’m also a big fan of Omnisphere & Reaktor. As far as go to plugsins for mixing, I love all the Waves stuff especially the LA2A and 1176 emulations, H-Comp as well as the good old L2, Sonnox EQ and Dynamics, Voxengo Elephant and SPAN, SPL Transient Designer, Sound Toys Decapitator for saturation, Sound Toys Filter Freak and Fabfilter Volcano for filters and the Lexicon PCM Reverbs. With regards to monitoring, I’m currently using a pair of Samson R8As which I’ve had for about 5 years now. It’s definitely time to upgrade.

Turntables or CDJs?

CDJs, just for convenience sake. I don’t get caught up in the Vinyl vs CD vs whatever else debates, it’s all just music at the end of the day.

How long have you producing and DJing?

I’ve been producing seriously since 2005 (although I started playing around with Cubase since about 2000), and I started writing dubstep in 2008. I’ve been DJing since 2006.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

We’ve played some pretty awesome shows, but the ones that always stand out for me are the warehouse parties my mates used to run. Just the intensity of those, nothing can match it. We’ve played in huge hangar-sized steel fabrication workshops, 3 story carpet warehouses, under motorways, huge open areas cleared for construction. Unfortunately they started getting a 100% hit rate with Sydney’s finest, the Public Order & Riot Squad, so they’re a rare occurrence these days. I’ve played alongside alot of my favourite artists within both DnB and dubstep, but there’s a few I’m yet to play with. I’ve got some sets lined up with Phaeleh in December which I’m really looking forward to as he’s been pushing my tunes for a couple of years now. Another artist I’d like to play alongside is Youngsta, there’ve been rumours for years that he’s coming out here but it’s yet to happen.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

That’s a tough one, there’s so many talented cats out there and I don’t want to leave anyone out, but if I have to narrow it down to five:

1. Sook: My brother from another. This guy’s mixdowns have always been amazing and just get better and better. Always has interesting melodic and textural ideas.
2. Chewie: The synth king! He’s more known for his dancefloor tunes but he’s got some seriously evil dark business on the boil as well.
3. TZR: Been a fan of Tom’s tune for a while now, but the past 6 months he’s really upped his game. Deep techy tribal biz
4. Biome: Pretty much everything I like about dubstep condensed into one sound. Dark as you please, ridiculously detailed, techy as all hell. All whilst maintaining the groove.
5. Kryptic Minds: These guys have been favourites of mine since they were releasing on Metalheadz. You can absolutely tell that they are masters of what they do, there’s just so much maturity in their production.

What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?

I’m a bit worried that the dark sound that we’re all digging on at the moment is going to become very generic very quickly. I think it’s up to us, as producers, to experiment not only with the timbres themselves, but with song structure, harmony, rhythmic complexity, essentially becoming better song writers, not just bashing out a groove. I mean sure it’s dance music and it’s important to tailor it to a DJ set, but I think if that’s the driving focus behind the structure things are going to go the way drum and bass did for a couple of years.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

I’m working on an EP for Paradise Lost (double 12”/digi) currently, will be in the stages of finalising the tracklist for that soon. Apart from that I have an older tune of mine (‘Viscous’) coming out on a 12” on Requiem Audio, the label I run with Droid Sector. I’ve got alot of other tunes sitting here that I’ll be hustling once I’ve locked in the tunes for my EP so stay tuned!

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Just do it. Make time for writing/production/engineering every day, it’s just like an instrument, you need to practice to improve and if you’re on there every day you’re keeping your chops up. Another thing, be unique! I mean, none of us live in a vacuum so of course there is going to be influence from what we listen to, but aim to develop a distinct sound, be that through your mixdown style, instrumentation, use of harmony etc etc. Oh yeah and another invaluable piece of advise I got from Martijn Noisia is make sure your tune can stand up by itself, so essentially it’s a piece of music as it is and doesn’t require a DJ set for it to shine. Sounds simple but it’s amazing how many people don’t look at it that way.

Any shoutouts?

Absolutely! Shouts to my Australian crew Sook, Droid Sector, Chewie, 3rdeye, J. Nitrous, Westernsynthetics, Shredexx (honorary Australian!), Spherix, Phonetic System, Flippo, Paul & Farj, Low Society crew, the Heavy Innit boys, Void crew. US crew Geoff Subdivision, TZR, Dubtek, Triage, Mikey Antiserum, SPL, Babylon System. From neuro euro and the motherland Phaeleh, Eddie Seven, Killawatt, Rob Robotic, TKR, Twisted, Joel Riskotheque. From across the Tasman NZ crew Perverse, Tallan and Ghost Note. And of course my beautiful fiance Kass & son Asher for putting up with mid range sounds and snares on loop for hours.

To go with his hugely detailed and thought out interview, Tim was kind enough to throw an hour’s mix our way. It’s rare we go with a mix this long, but this one was worth it. An amazing mix of deep and dark riddims from our favourite producers, mixed to perfection by one of Australia’s finest. Beaut!

Boot x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

Track list:

1. Secret Chiefs 3 - Knights Of Damcar [Mimicry] 
2. Boot & TZR - Across Oceans [Dub] 
3. Sook - Dead Star [Dub] 
4. Formless - Forgotten Promises [Dub] 
5. Boot - Structural Function [Dub] 
6. TZR - Headhunter [forthcoming Watt Hz] 
7. Droid Sector - Sarcophagus [forthcoming Subway] 
8. YLEM - Night Shade [Gamma Audio] 
9. Tallan - Torment [Dub] 
10. Boot - Reeducation VIP [Dub] 
11. Olie Bassweight - The Void (3rdeye’s Negative Space remix) [Dub] 
12. Boot  - Methods Of Control [forthcoming Paradise Lost] 
13. Aeolho - Unique Conscience [forthcoming Paradise Lost] 
14. Sook & Actuator - The Wren [forthcoming Paradise Lost] 
15. Killawatt - Conflict [forthcoming Requiem Audio] 
16. TKR - Scowling [Dub] 
17. Ghost Note - Deception [forthcoming Innamind] 
18. Shredexx - Silence [Dub] 
19. Boot & TZR - Chiaroscuro [Dub] 
20. Dubtek - No More [Dub] 
21. TKR - Fallout [Dub] 
22. Sook - Never Knows Best (Boot remix) [Dub] 
23. Formless - The Subtle Winds [Dub] 
24. Perverse & Olie Bassweight - Shaded [Bassweight Recs] 
25. Boot - Colder Now [Dub] 
26. Talvin Singh - Dubla [Island]

Let us know what you think Boot’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook. Lara

Our brand new MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire feature for you guys is with Benton. Arguably one of the best producers around at the darker end of dubstep, he’s been smashing tunes out left, right and centre and has produced some of the biggest tracks the genre’s seen in more than a long time. To say having him feature here on FatKidOnFire is an honour is an understatement!

Who is Benton?

I’m a Producer/ DJ from Epsom.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep?

Unitz and Arc-88 got me into producing when I moved over here; Unitz showed me pretty much how to use Logic and DJ…

What’s your style – big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

Depends how I’m feeling to be honest. Now it’s getting colder I guess there’s going be some darkside tunes written over the winter – hibernation steeze!

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

Logic 9.

Turntables or CDJs?

CDJs… Never got into buying vinyl as much as I wanted to! I did when I was really young; I used to buy a lot of jungle vinyl and I had some broken up belt drives with just a sub.

How long have you producing and DJing?

Roughly about 4-5 years? First couple years I didn’t know what I was doing though!

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

My best gig would have to be OI! at Paradiso in Amsterdam, that place is sick! Uh and I’d like to DJ with Youngsta… Him and I haven’t been on the same line up yet!

Who are your top dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. Unitz: I’ve heard some of his deeper stuff recently and it’s just pure sickness…
2. Arc-88: Badboy 140 -150bpm jungle producer. Check him out.
3. Sleeper and District: they kind of come as a pair but their darkside bits are ill!
4. Biome: Every tune he sends me is bad!
5. J:Kenzo: ‘Ruffhouse’!
6. Organics: ‘Limbo’ is deep… I’ve heard a few fresh bits from them recently that are different.
7. LX One: Love his sound!
8. Widowmaker: Never thought I’d say that haha! But trust me, he’s making some big tunes…
9. And lastly I’d have to say Benga. He’s always been one of my favourite producers and I’m sure he always will.

What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?

God knows! As long as every just keeps making beats it will go on forever.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

My album on Wheel & Deal should be out end of the year/ beginning of next year. But my monitors have broken – so I can’t finish anything off!

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Just keep making tunes and showing love to the sound that you love! Big up.

Benton’s mix has been getting a lot of love on the FKOF Soundcloud account – give it a listen and you’ll understand why. This mix is absolutely huge! Check the amazing Benton remix of Thelem’s ‘Drones’ and, if you’re looking to book the main man, hit up our friend Nikki Acute who’s looking after Benton these days!

Benton x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

Track list:

1. Widowmaker - Tunnelling Wurm 
2. Skream - Blipstream 
3. Benton - Skeptics 
4. Sleeper - Scanners 
5. Kryptic Minds - The Fifth 
6. Thelem - Drones (Benton remix) 
7. Sleeper - Submerged 
8. Benton ft. The Kemistry - The Core 
9. Biome - Quest 
10. SpMc + Lxone - The hunted 
11. J:Kenzo - Stomp 
12. J:Kenzo + Mosaix - Alone in the darkness 
13. Sleeper + District - Dungeon Style 
14. J:Kenzo ft. Rod Azlan - Ruff House

Let us know what you think Benton’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook. Lara

We’re back to the sub-orientated end of dubstep today with a feature on an extremely talented producer from Kent. Trashbat’s been on the MakeItGood x FKOF radar for some time now – having released a few impressive tunes and collaborated with some of the artists we’re keen on. We recently caught up with Callum for a chat – which you can catch up on below. Be sure not to miss his awesome mix after the interview!

Who is Trashbat?

Trashbat is an alias I (Callum Grant) use to make music under. I took it from a TV show called Nathan Barley (written by Chris Morris & Charlie Brooker).

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

Well, instinctively I’d say deep & dark, I’m not really into what people call “brostep” – but saying that I do like a good bit of “filth” or “wobble” or whatever you want to call it. Just as long as its tasteful! I like people like Badklaat, Requake, all the H.E.N.C.H crew; as long as I can roll one up and vibe to it im not fussed. As for what got me into dubstep, I used to mix and produce DnB when I was younger, then I heard ‘Midnight Request Line’ and ‘Night’. At the time, I’d never really heard dubstep so it was new and exciting; then I stumbled across The Widdler and have been hooked ever since!

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

Reason 5 mostly, but I use FL9 to cut things up and make things with VSTs like hooks and pads.

Turntables or CDJs?

3 CDJs preferably, but put anything in front of me and I’ll happily have a mix.

How long have you producing and DJing?

I started when I was 14, I’m 22 now – so 8 years!

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

I haven’t done a lot of sets in the last year to be honest. For no particular reason I guess, but the dubstep scene in my immediate area (Barnhehurst/ Bexleyheath in case you’re wondering) is pretty dry. I had one a few months back in Maidstone at the Source Bar with Samurax, Jakey Shake & Decimator (aka The Filth Effect on Youtube) and, apart from a load of my boys not being let in because they were wearing joggers (hahaha!), it was a big night; nice crowd & good vibes. And if I could DJ alongside anyone? Youngsta & Toast at FWD.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. Distance – probably my favourite of all time, his tracks are so consistant and as soon as it starts you can instantly tell it’s him (in a good way obviously), he’s just got such a refined sound
2. Icicle – same as above really, just love the refined unique sound he’s got
3. Kryptic Minds – do I need to explain why?!
4. Eyela Beret – watch out for this guy, his tracks just simply have weight, and he’s got a few decent cheeky bootlegs as well!
5. Duckem - really nice sub-oriented tracks, perfect smoking music in my opinion.

What’s the future of dubstep – where do you see the genre going?

Hmmm, the future of dubstep? Well, I think we’ll see more and more of the genre enter the ‘mainstream’ sort of stage, which can be good and bad. Well, not bad, more annoying maybe? I think we’re not too far off seeing people like Rihanna, Lady Gaga etc [Britney, anyone?] trying their hand at ‘dubstep’ tracks. I think we’ll see more of these live dubstep ‘bands’ but it doesn’t really bother me, it’s not like I have to listen to it! On the other hand, I think things like J:Kenzo on Radio 1 is wicked! It’s good to see the more sub-oriented sound getting more exposure and, hey, if it means one day I’ll get to hear a bit of Kryptic Minds or some Digital Mystikz in the morning on the way to work then I say let it happen. Either way, I think it’ll only grow in fanbase, until something new comes along then it’ll slowly die down, retaining only it’s more hardcore fans; a bit like garage.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

I’ve been chatting to a few people but can’t give away anything just yet, but I’ve just released the ‘Old Manor Way EP’ that came out last month on Dubstrict Records, who incidentally have free album with 2 of my tracks on out on the 31st of October!

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Erm, well seeing as I’m an upcoming producer I can’t really give any ‘advice’ as it were, so I’ll just say make what you want to make, don’t alter your sound for anyone! Integrity is the most important thing – the second you compromise your art for sake of sales/ popularity, then (in my opinion at least) you lose all artistic merit (without trying to sound too high and mighty)! 

By just looking at the track list you can tell it’s going to be a big one (and, of course, it doesn’t disappoint). Grab the free DL and hit up the Trashbat FB page if you enjoy it!

Trashbat x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

Track list:

1. Duckem - Galaxy 
2. Trashbat - Scorched Earth 
3. Stoner Movement - Legend4ry 
4. Side 2 Side VIP - Deesee 
»> Eyela Beret - Niribu 
5. Alias - Kick a hole in the speaker 
6. Trashbat - Aperture 
7. Trashbat - Monster 
8. Samurax - Too Far Gone 
9. Camu - Myosotis 
10. Camu - Myosotis (Trashbat Remix) 
11. Icicle & Distance - Exhale 
12. Trashbat - Dying Sun 
13. Unknown - Monolith 
14. Teknian - Isolation VIP 
15. Vibration Lab - Forward Operator (Tribute to Yellowman) 
16. Fused Forces - Diamondz 
17. The Widdler - Butterflies Remix 
18. Unknown - Saidii Dub 
19. Objekt - The Goose That Got Away 
»> Pinch - Swish 
20. Duckem - Truth Seeker 
21. Alias & Reamz - Def Stereo 
22. Trashbat - Ghosts 
23. Soap Dodgers - no. 6 
24. Killawatt - Sidewinder (Ipman’s Worldwide Sound Junglification)

Let us know what you think Trashbat’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

This Friday 28th October, Dubliminal Records present a night of rootical dubstep, dub and bass music at Arch 269, Coldharbour Lane Brixton…

Cessman writes…
“We’ve pulled out all the stops for this event! Gangsta Boogie Music’s main man Heny G will be filling the headline slot on the night. If you know ‘proper’ dubstep at all, this man will need no introduction. We’ve got our first international booking in the form of the highly-acclaimed Danish duo ROOT (RDG & JB). Valor will be joining us on the night as our second international booking, all the way from Massachusetts, USA! We’re delighted to say that JazzyJazzy (aka J. Tijn) will be joining us again after playing an amazing cross-genre techno/boogie/dubstep set at our last event. Expect insane-o-boogie. Syte & O-Dessa’s reputations speak for themselves. You’ve almost certainly heard them on Sub.FM or at one of the many events they play at in the LDN/South East area. Our residents will of course also be playing some tunes on the night. Terrafonix (Cessman & Potentz) will be stepping up at around midnight to bless you with the core “Dubliminal” sound. Dubtechnicians are making the journey down from Leeds to grace the decks with another mixed-genre bag of goodness. DJ £10 Bag will be playing mostly 10” dubplates from the Dubliminal crew, and a few classic dubstep tracks. Straight vinyl & plates”

LINE UP

TERRAFONIX - CESSMAN & POTENTZ
Ariwa / Sin City / GetDarker / Police in Helicopter / Deep Medi

DJ HENY G 
Gangsta Boogie Music / Anti-Social / 3.5 / Flex FM

JAZZYJAZZY (aka J. TIJN)
Gangsta Boogie Music / Dubliminal

VALOR [USA] (UK debut)
Dubliminal

ROOT - RDG & J.B [Denmark] (UK debut)
Cloqwork / Surfase / Rood.fm

SYTE & O-DESSA
OpenEarz / Sub.FM / Kryptik Elementz / Lo Dubs

A-LIST & CRISP DUBS
Red Volume / Dubliminal

PRISM [USA] (UK debut)
Lovewave / Dubliminal Sunday

INFIDEL & PLAYA - DUBTECHNICIANS
Bass Clash / Dubliminal / Wake & Bake

DJ £10 BAG
Hyperblazing / Subheavy / Dubliminal

Hosted by J.MAN

@ Arch 269, Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, South London, SW9 8SE.

Friendly security, cheap drinks, good smoking area.
Limited number of £5 tickets - More on the door

Contact: events@dubliminal.co.uk
Website: www.dubliminal.co.uk

» FACEBOOK EVENT «

check out a recent Terrafonix set from Dubliminal Sunday on Ustream

Video streaming by Ustream

This week has been a very busy one in terms of MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire features, and there is no stopping us! So, we sat down with Ian from Black Acre, and chatted to him about the label and what we can look forward to. We are very pleased to announce that Memotone (signed to Black Acre) has also done a 45 minute mix for us! So, sit back and enjoy! 

1. Tell us a little about Black Acre Records…

I don’t really think of Black Acre as just a label it’s more of a home, or gang, or orphanage for Hip Hop’s refugees. I hope people can see from the Boiler Room show that the Acre family’s love for each other is deep. I liken it to 80’s Hip Hop label Cold Chillin, we have a Biz Markie, a Big Daddy Kane and a Marley Marl we are desperately in need of a Roxanne Shante though! I suppose I just see Black Acre as a place for like minded people to create pretty and or ugly things that sound cool.

2. Who is signed to Black Acre?

The main famalam consist of Blue Daisy, Hyetal, Fantastic Mr Fox, Snow Ghosts, Memotone, Brokenchord, Loops Haunt, Big Xylo with extended fam Dark Sky, Akira Kiteshi, Kelpe, 1000names, Dizz1…. Can’t forget Mary Anne Hobbs she’s like my 5th Beatle!

3. Why did you decide to set up a label?

After many years as an artist I was left with not alot except some insider knowledge I’d gathered from being repeatedly chewed up by the machine, so I decided I wanted to create a home for musical creative types but with genuine artist support, I’m still learning but I think I’m getting there, realse by release..

4. You recently took over Boiler Room (which was fantastic), so have you got any plans to host any other events?

Yes I love to curate a stage at a festival or maybe even do my own wierd event, I’m a big fan of ATP, Sonar and Bloc so I’d love to get involved with something like that. I’ve got a big Black Acre night at Amsterdam’s Paradiso in September and obviously forthcoming tours from the amazing Hyetal and Blue Daisy!

5. What do you think of the UK bass music scene at the moment?

I think that bass music in the UK is in rude health it keeps dying and regenerating as a fresh entity exciting times!

6. Any exciting releases on Black Acre in the near future?

Yes one major biggie is Blue Daisy’s debut album “The Sunday Gift”. I’ve been lucky enough to join young Daisy on his journey from day one I feel like he’s one of the defining artist’s on Black Acre and it’s a pivotol moment from us. Got new singles from Hyetal, and INSANE EP from Loops Haunt, an EP from the amzing Dark Sky.. Fantastic Mr Fox, Brokenchord, a Halloween birthed ep from Memotone featuring Leafcutter John.. Phew.. Oh and Snow Ghosts vs Blue daisy 12”.. Errrr I’ve probably missed something…

7. What music are you listening to at the moment

Other than Black Acre artists I’m checking for a lot of Hip Hop at the moment it’s been a while but as with the natural cycle of things I think innovative Hip Hop is coming back especially Westcoast rap group, Death Grips. Russian Hip Hop is big in my life also right now folks like Lapti, 813, OL, BMB Space Kid, DZA… so many so much talent.

8. Any advice to upcoming producers/dj’s?

Be brave, do you, trust your instincts..

There you have it! Click on the link below to download Memotone’s mix, it’s a big one! 

MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire #67 - Memotone mix

Track list

1. The Archies - Sugar Sugar
2. Aphex Twin - gwarek 2
3. Loops Haunt - Ark [Forthcoming on Black Acre, Ark EP]
4. Memotone - Lost Hours [Forthcoming on Black Acre, Lost Hours EP]
5. Kahn - Helter Skelter
6. Randomer - Jobless
7. PropaTingz - Babylons Scared feat Dakini [16bit Remix]
8. Zack Christ - Fox Prawns
9. oOoOO - Mumbai
10. Radiohead - Idioteque
11. Amon Tobin - Piece Of Paper
12. Achilles - No Money, No Worries
13. Hyetal - Phoenix [Fantastic Mr Fox Remix]
14. Tune-Yards - Bizness
15. Memotone - Multicolour
16. Hudson Mohawke - Cbat
17. Memotone & Soosh - Memoosh
18. Blue Diasy - The End [Forthcoming Black Acre, The Sunday Gift. debut album.]

Let us know what you think our interview with Black Acre and Memotone’s mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara

It’s been a fantastic week as far as new content goes here on FatKidOnFire – with a new MakeItGood mix/ interview with the awesome Subreachers duo and a brand new mix from Birmingham/ Manchester’s Blynk. Tonight, we sit down with Seattle’s TZR – one of the finest (proper) dubstep producer/ DJs we’ve come across from the US. We’ve been following Tom’s progress over the past few months and have been really, really impressed with what we’ve seen and heard. TZR’s upcoming collabs with a few of our Southern Pacific brothers did nothing but grab our attention more so we hit him up and got him down for a feature. Follow TZR on Facebook and Twitter and peep his stupidly good mix below…

Who is TZR?

TZR (pronounced Tizzer) is a nickname I picked up when I was a kid from some friends of mine around the time I started to DJ. I needed a name, and I felt like nothing else really fit so I just used that.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

Actually, my good friend and production partner, Press was very influential in initially getting me into dubstep. I would definitely say that my style is more oriented towards the large, spacious sound and deep dark basslines. I am heavily influenced by classic Neurofunk dnb and try to incorporate a similar feel where I can.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

I use Logic Pro 8, and sometimes I will use a bit of Ableton, or Reason for certain effects or sounds via rewire.

Turntables or CDJs?

I started on 1200s when I first started DJing – and that was my standard for years – but when I started producing I switched to CDJs, as it was way cheaper to burn a disk to test a new tune at a show than to cut dubs every time. Especially in the early days of producing, when it took a while to get the songs sounding right (though I feel I’m still improving and have along way from being quite where I would like to be).

How long have you producing and DJing?

I started DJing DnB back in 1999, I started producing in 2005 and wrote my first dubstep tunes in 2007 and have sort of gravitated towards that sound more steadily ever since.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

One of my favorite shows was in Nov 2010 when Press and I played our release party for the ‘Like Minds’ LP; the venue was packed, we played all original tunes and people were really feeling the music. It was a refreshing thing in the ‘States for crowds to really get down to the deeper sound. As for playing alongside someone, I’d love to play alongside DJ Madd, that guy’s tunes are absolutely nuts.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

That’s a tough one to say, there really is so much great stuff coming out right now, but I suppose in no real order:

1. Seven – His tunes are all very unique yet tied together with a specific sound that is altogether his own. I also got to open for him when he came through Seattle, and he was a real down to earth nice guy.
2. Boot - This dude is about to blow up big time. His new batch of work is really top notch and he always has these super clean mixdowns. He’s a big influence on me personally, and we have a few collabs currently being finalised [you’ll find a clip in TZR’s mix]. Again, an all around nice guy as well.
3. Dcult - Just ended up talking with him recently and it turns out we’re both into each other’s tunes. Really into the feel of his work a ton. His tune ‘Inner Peace’ is absolutely massive, a real stormer.
4. J:Kenzo - We wrote a tune together when he came out to Seattle in ‘09 called ‘Dark Circles’ that went on the TZR & Press LP, but that song in particular really changed the way I saw writing dubstep and put me off in another direction. I’m very grateful to Jay for that, it really opened my eyes to a different way of working. All his new stuff is thick with vibes, and solid dancefloor material as well.
5. Icicle - I’ve been a fan of his tunes since he was making exclusively DnB, and his dubstep is excellent. Felling all of his material.

What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?

In a word, growth. Living in the ‘States, the brostep sound is obviously the predominant sound, though I see people starting to really feel the deeper stuff. The only problem is with the DJs. No one ever exposes the people here to the deeper side of dubstep for fear of losing the crowd. I find when I play the deeper side of dubstep out, that most people react extremely well to it and I constantly get people telling me they hate the predominant “dubstep” sound (brostep), but are really into the deep stuff. I think the more people on this side of the world that get exposed to the other[/real] side of dubstep the more you will see it expand as a whole. The Skrillex style stuff is running on a short lived fad in my opinion and really is just playing against the clock, so to speak. With all the great tunes and superb producers working on tunes on the deeper side of dubstep, there’s still a long way to go yet in terms of exploring the sound as a whole.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

Yeah, I’ve got a number of projects I’m currently working on. Hopefully this month will see the release of the next TZR & Press single, Deity and Not Human, on Shift. Then I have an EP, I’m currently in the process of finalizing for Sub Pressure, and another EP for Ylem’s Australian label, WattHz. Then I’ll be working on a whole batch of material that’s going to be kept under wraps for a bit.

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

I would still consider myself coming up really, but for the most part, keep writing tunes and following the sound you are really feeling! Personally, I went to school for audio engineering before I started writing tunes and I feel it helped immensely. It instilled a lot of good habits – like reading some books on the matter or a even manual. The information on writing music is out there for the taking in so many places, you just have to start looking.

Any shoutouts?

Shouts out to Press, Grym, Dubtek, Boot, Droid Sector, Sook, J:Kenzo, Dcult, Perverse, The SubDivision, Mouch, Kial, Nyx, B1t Crunch3r, Phonetic System, Killeralien, the whole Onset and Shift crews and all my Seattle people, my label affiliations for all their continued support, Paradise Lost, Requiem Audio, Gamma Audio, Sub Pressure, Gradient Audio, and WattHz. Sorry if there’s anyone I left out!

 Tom’s mix for FatKidOnFire and MakeItGood is awesome. There’s not many other ways to describe it. The US needs more talented producers like Tom pushing the deep and dark sounds of real dubstep. We’ll see the back of brostep one day! Download the mix, spread the word and support artists like TZR. Hit him up on Twitter if you’re feeling his dubs and the other releases that feature in the mix!

TZR x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

 

Tract list:

1. TZR - Fedaykin [WattHz dub] 
2. Dcult - Particle [M.U.D.] 
3. Press & Dubtek - Cages [Gamma Audio dub] 
4. Boot - Dark Things [dub] 
5. TZR - Terminus [dub] 
6. TZR & Press - Deity [Shift dub] 
7. Perverse - Genocide [dub] 
8. Droid Sector - Lifesigns [dub] 
9. TZR - Forgotten Worlds [dub] 
10. Boot - Dagobah [dub] 
11. Boot & TZR - Untitled [dub] 
12. Dcult - End of Days [M.U.D.] 
13. Perverse - Cerberus [dub] 
14. TZR & Press - Not Human [Shift dub] 
15. TZR - Headhunter - [WattHz dub] 
16. J:Kenzo - Voyager - [dub] 
17. TZR - Secrets (Feat. Nyx) [Sub Pressure dub]

Let us know what you think TZR’s mix and interview via Twitter or Facebook. Lara 

Way back in August last year, we featured an artist called ‘Undaground Soundz’ in our mixtape and interview series with FatKidOnFire. Except there was never a mix to go with Sam’s interview…

Sam recently hit us up and said he’d managed to get some studio time and asked if we’d be interested in dropping a mix for him. We said of course (if you’ve caught any of Blynk’s tracks you’ll know he’s got a serious production talent – a theme that continues in his mixing) and he fired us the .mp3 a few days later. So here it is, a year after we first blogged about Sam he’s back, with a new name, with an awesome selection of tunes. If you want to grab the download, contact us using the details below. Hit Blynk up if you’re feeling his MakeItGood x FKOF mix!

Blynk x FatKidOnFire mix by Fatkidonfire on Mixcloud

Let us know what you think Blynk’s mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara 

We’re not hanging around with the MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire features at the moment, they’re coming thick and fast – and are set to continue with two (mixes & interviews) a week until the end of November. If not longer. Life, if you’re a fan of the deep end of the dubstep spectrum, is good… With the regular drops of mixes we’ve had over the past few weeks, we’ve been saying each new mix is better than the last. Sorry if that’s getting dull (we hope it’s not), but if you see the track list that accompanies our latest mix you’ll forgive us if we re-iterate the point. This mix will Blow. Your. Mind. That’s thanks to two of the finest producers we’ve come across recently – the extremely talented guys in Belgium’s finest dubstep export, Subreachers. Mat and Tim have been kind enough to take part in an interview and have unleashed 14 of the hottest dubs in dubstep. Yeah, we’ve got dubs from J:Kenzo, Subreachers, Perverse, RDG, Biome, Truth, Curzed and a whole host more. To say this mix is huge is the biggest understatement since the word was invented…

Who are Subreachers?

Matthias Hoogewijs & Tim Van de Meutter, both 23 & living near Antwerp, Belgium.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style – big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

We both listened & mixed a lot of other genres before we discovered dubstep: drum and bass, techno, house… But when we heard dubstep for the first time we were like; “what the hell is this kind of music”? It’s sick! So we both took things more seriously at the end of 2008 & started making our own tracks. Our sound is, let’s say, everything except as filthy as possible! We mostly make deep & dark tracks but sometimes soulful & melodic ones when we feel like it. It depends from time to time… We also produce DnB, techno, house, etc on our own.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

Ableton combined with a lot of sampling/ samples & VST’s.

Turntables or CDJs?

CDJs – so that we’re able to play all the unreleased material we have & from other producers. Still love vinyl a lot though.

How long have you producing and DJing?

Since 2008.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

Dublo, Dungeon & Untitled because of a good combination of things: sick crowd, cool venue, good soundsystem & DJ gear & good care from the promotors. We dream of some bookings abroad of course! We’re happy with who we’ve played with so far though. As long as the music is good, we’re happy we can play. Doesn’t really matter who is on the line up then.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

Difficult! We could give a top 30 in fact but let’s give it a try!

1. Jack Sparrow: next level production skills. ‘Circadian’ is one of the best dubstep albums ever.
2. Lurka: dark business. Supported him from the beginning so we’re glad his hard work has paid off with some good releases. Not even mentioning his DJ sets… [Damn right – Lurka is some serious business, and his vinyl sets are next level!]
3. J:Kenzo: always been a sick producer but this year is a complete breakthrough for him.
4. Perverse: New Zealand massive, look out for them!
5. All the shoutout guys mentioned below, on a shared fifth place!

What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?

It’s probably going to progress. But we’re not sure actually. A lot of people are leaving deep dubstep sounds and going on to house and/or techno. Let’s hope it evolves in a positive way and people keep on making good dubstep.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

Nothing signed at the moment… A few maybes but nothing concrete. Yet…

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

Music-wise; stay true to yourself & your own taste of music and never give up!

Any shoutouts?

J:Kenzo, J. Tijn, Perverse, RDG, Curzed, Fracture, Biome, Heny G, Cyrus, Thelem, Lurka, Brownz, Icicle, Jay 5ive, BunZer0, Valor, Core, LX One, Truth, Q600, Killawatt, Von D & anyone else we forgot!

We weren’t joking about Tim and Mat’s mix. Just scroll down a bit and look at that track list. Our collective jaw dropped when we first saw it – and it doesn’t disappoint. At all! The Subreachers have gone in hard! If you’re feeling them, hit them up on Facebook, Soundcloud or Twitter to let them know!

Subreachers x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

Track list:

1. Biome - Thermopylae [Dub] 
2. Perverse - Helios [Dub] 
3. Subreachers - Fear [Dub] 
4. J:Kenzo - Kimura [Dub] 
5. Curzed - Misery [Dub] 
6. Core - Cold Hearted [Dub] 
7. Truth - All Alone [Dub] 
8. Perverse - The Iceman [Dub] 
9. Q600 - L.X. [Dub] 
10. Goli & Ashburner - Field Of Vibrations (Core Remix) [Dub] 
11. J:Kenzo & Mosaix - Alone In The Darkness [Dub] 
12. Icicle - Organic Step [Dub] 
13. Perverse - Rigor Mortis [Dub] 
14. RDG - Black Hole [Dub]

Let us know what you think Subreachers interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook.

Lara 

Yes, it’s that time of year again when we let the brown leaves fall and welcome the students back. Autumn is upon us and here at BassLaced we’re keeping the parties going at full throttle.
 
This month London Bridge’s favourite party boys have teamed up with none other than Croydon’s very own Get Darker to bring you a mouth-watering line up with some of the hottest artists around. Joker headlines, who is burning at “White Hot” in the build up to his album, while Toddla T, who’s “Watch Me Dance” has been hammered on Radio 1 by none other than Annie Mac, seconds an extremely strong bill.
 
H.E.N.C.H’s king of the double-drops, Mensah, takes aim to show Get Darker TV’s audience his truly unique skills on the decks while Kromestar, one of Dubstep’s most prolific producers sets speed to bring the vibes. Get Darker residents Darkside and Tunnidge round off what is sure to be a night for the party goers and music enthusiasts alike.

Pack London host room 2 this month with an assortment of some of London’s finest up and coming talent. For full details of the event log onto the BassLaced website or visit getdarker.com

▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀ *** LINEUP *** ▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀

Room 1: (Basslaced GetsDarker)
JOKER
* JME (Boy Better Know) ***** JUST ADDED *****
TODDLA T
MENSAH
KROMESTAR
TUNNIDGE b2b DARKSIDE
SOUL CICUIT
COMPETITION WINNER

MC’s:
JME
TOAST
CRAZY D
KOAST

Room 2: (Pack London) http://packlondon.com/
TRU:TEK
KEAR
HARIKIRI
DJ MUSE
GET LOW CARTEL
LEGASPI & NIKO
WHITE TYSON

10PM - 6AM
FRIDAY 21st OCTOBER
@ CABLE NIGHTCLUB

£7 earlybird (SOLD OUT)
£9 advance tickets
MOTD

*LIMITED* ADVANCED TICKETS ON SALE HERE:
UKF Live: http://ukflive.com/events/event/34/Basslaced-Gets-Darker

Ticket Web: http://tiny.cc/2ofsw
Ticket Script: http://tiny.cc/om0lg

http://basslaced.com/
http://facebook.com/basslaced
http://twitter.com/BassLaced
http://myspace.com/basslaced

http://getdarker.com/
http://facebook.com/dubstepgetdarker
http://twitter.com/getdarker
http://youtube.com/getdarker

On Friday 28th, Soltek are taking over CAMP and are hosting two of the biggest names in DnB, SpectraSoul & Lynx. 

The guys are also running a competition for 3 lucky winners to gain free entry (+1) to the next party! All you have to do is follow the instructions on their fan page : http://facebook.com/SoltekUK

Advanced tickets are available here. There will also be MOTD. 

Extra info : 

21:30 - 4:00 The CAMP Basement (City Arts & Music Project),
70 – 74 City Rd, London EC1Y 2BJ
(Nearest tube Old Street)

It’s been a while since Sparxy did a mix for us, so we are really excited to release this next one. Check out his Facebook, Twitter and Soundcloud to keep up to date with what he’s up to, and don’t forget to check out the Bacon Dubs website! 

So, here it is. Click on the link to download it, and check out the track list below, it is filled with dubs! 

Sparxy MakeItGood Mix October 2011

Track list

1. Deafblind - Boolean Illogic [Bacon Dubs]
2. Skriptah - Mean Disposition [Bassclash Recordings]
3. Sparxy - Exile [Bacon Dubs]
4. Reamz - Fear [Dub]
5. District - Haymaker [Chestplate]
6. Skriptah - Two Cycle [Bacon Dubs]
7. Benton - 20/20 [Wheel n Deal]
8. Reamz - Subconscious [Bacon Dubs]
9. Skream - Exothermic Reaction [NonPlus]
10. Stinkahbell - Something In Your Eyes [Sin City]
11. Roksonix - Madness [Circus]
12. Sparxy - Full Throttle [Dub]
13. Dismantle - Computation [Wheel n Deal]
14. Sparxy & Radzta - Bag of Swag (Sparxy’s FUNKYTIME Remix) [Dub]
15. Sparxy - Relentless [Bacon Dubs]
16. Kutz - Superman [Wheel n Deal]
17. Intelligent Delinquent - Fat Kids Are Hard to Kidnap [Dub]
18. Young D - Lightning Bolt (Sparxy Remix) [CDR]

We’ve been shouting about this recent run of form with our MakeItGood x FatKidOnFire feature series – and although we keep saying it; it’s just going to get better. The next four mixes and interviews are from some of our favourite producers and feature some of the most impressive talent on the deeper end of the dubstep scene. To say we’re excited is an understatement… We’ve been championing the (controversially called) “dungeon sound” from the South Pacific for a while now – we’ve featured Perverse (they got a rewind from Youngsta on his Rinse FM show this week!) and Ghost Note (who’s been going from strength to strength with his recent tunes) and have a whole host of other producers who are yet to feature. Tonight sees us sitting down with Wellington’s Tallan. After the Perverse boys introduced us to most of the NZ/ Australian dubstep guys, we got chatting to Tallan – and after hearing his tunes we knew he needed to feature on FKOF and MakeItGood. His mix is testament to the extreme talent pushing the traditional, deep and meditative sounds coming out of Oceania at the moment. Hit the interview and grab the mix (check out that list of dubs!) below and be sure to follow Tallan on Soundcloud and Facebook.

Who is Tallan? 

Tallan started about a year ago now. It originally started out as a side project but it ended up consuming most of my time and now it is my focus. Tallan tunes tend to lean towards a lot of bassweight and stripped-down melodies. Less is more but it’s a fine line and I’m trying to balance on it.

What got you into mixing and producing dubstep? What’s your style - big, dark basslines or as filthy as possible?

I started mixing 2005ish. Loads of drum and bass. Picked up some direct drives in 2006 and ended up staying up late spinning tunes with the lads every night for a long time. I moved from my home town Wellington to Auckland in 2008 and started getting into production. I was a bit of a diehard DnB fanatic so picked up on dubstep as a bit of a latecomer. I got properley into it around the same time I moved to Auckland after seeing Skream and Benga outdoors at Phat ‘08 in Inangahua, the biggest bass party Aotearoa had to offer. From then on there were a sh!tload of 138 bits coming out of the studio.

What software do you use to produce your tracks?

I use Logic 8. I am a bit pre-historic and still use a Power PC G5. It’s a bit of a struggle not being able to keep up with the Intel world but FKOF your Kontakt 6 or whatever you lot are banging on about haha! I use a bunch of VST/plug ins but a few to mention are Albino and Massive of course, Circle, Logics ES2 and Sculpture, NI’s FM8 is great as well as pretty much all their products are. Camel Audio doesn’t go far wrong (in moderation though). Loving the Shaack Transient Shaper right now for percussion. Got a bunch of compressors, reverbs etc etc.

Turntables or CDJs?

I’ve played on decks for most of the time I have been DJing. Making the move to CDJs was a sad day for the vinyl collection, as I prefer them to Serato! I find that having a computer in front of you is a bit off-putting. I have dragged crates and vinyl bags far enough to not care anymore. Sell out? Maybe if I got sent some all of the great dubs on acetate I would change my mind but I don’t see that happening! I will always prefer the feeling of tunes moving underneath my fingers though no doubt. I think the only people who argue between the two have either just started got their first decks or have a bone to pick. Everybody knows that vinyl loves you back and a CD doesn’t. CDJs look stupid and 1200s look good. Damn good.

How long have you producing and DJing?

DJing over 6 years and producing for nearly 4 years.

What’s been your best gig and if you could DJ alongside anyone, who would it be?

Best gig was Calibre. Can’t remember which year it was. 2006 I think. Grooverider and Alix Perez have been highlights. Dubstep tip would be Mala, Kode 9, N-Type as the most memorable. Organikismness played a dope set at Zen in Auckland one night to about 25 people and I was lapping it up. Honestly, if I could DJ alongside with anybody it would just be with the Wellington crew b2b all night. That is what it is all about to me.

Who are your top 5 dubstep producers at the moment; and why?

1. Kode 9 – Just more creative than most and really organic.
2. Mala – Because its Mala and it’s all choice as bro.
3. Perverse – Scary sh!t coming out of their studio right now [amen!]. Watch out. Bass.
4. Burial – One of the only dubstep/ garage producers my kids will hear and relate to. Timeless.
5. Peverelist – ‘Roll With The Punches’ is an all time favourite.

This is just the top 5 that sprung to mind. Can’t not mention The Bug, Kryptic Minds, Sleeper, District, Distance, DJ Madd and Cyrus will give you and idea of the tip.

What’s the future of dubstep - where do you see the genre going?

I think that it spawned off so dramatically that it left the essence of dubstep pure. I see the future of dubstep going the same way as drum and bass. Lots of sub-genres and eventually it will all be crazily over produced and then there will be something new that some will move on to and some will stay. It’s all music at the end of the day. Some things change, some remain the same.

Any forthcoming releases we can look forward to?

Yeap there are a few bits here and there. But shout out to Charlie at Optimus Gryme Recordings, Austerity and my good mates Mutated Sounds who release the not so deeper side of Tallan.

Have you got any advice to upcoming DJs/ Producers?

My advice is to just stick at it. Make the tunes you want to make. Always encourage each other and it doesn’t matter if anybody knows who the FKOF you are. Take your time. Send me some sweet tunes! Any shoutouts? Big shout out to the whole Aotearoa crew - Perverse, Ghost Note, Optimus, Organikismness, AK DnB Fu massive, Upbeats, Fis, Medictune, Jackal and Cheshire, Cronik Re and his West crew, P-Vans, Truth, Echo Company, Sick Cycle all of the Welly peeps, big up all the promoters and DJs that are in it for the love of it. Shout out to Compa, NoMan, Formless, Foster, Ioqe, Boot, Sook, Droid Sector, Adub, Disonata, RDG, Digid and a bunch more I have left out.

We’ve been sitting on this mix for about a week, and (yeah, we do say this a lot, but the quality of our recent mixes have been off the record) it’s one of our favourites. 55 minutes of superb tunes, stacks of dubs and a track list to turn even a Skrillex fan onto real dubstep. Sit back, light up and enjoy the weight…

Tallan x FatKidOnFire mix by FatKidOnFire

Track list:

1. Tallan – Thunder (dub) 
2. Lefty – Illusions (dub) 
3. Tallan – Gas Planet (dub) 
4. Perverse – Shaitan (dub) 
5. Ghost Note – Akira (dub) 
6. Medictune – Give You Anything 
7. Organikismness – Inertia Part II 
8. Tallan – Curse On You (dub) 
9. Droid Sector – Universe Zero 
10. Optimus Gryme – Immortal 
11. Ghost Note – Dancing Solo (dub) 
12. Tallan – Power House (Dubsilo Free DL) 
13. Boot – Methods of Control (dub) 
14. d-Queue – Alien Surveillance 
15. Tallan – Collector 
16. Arkotypes – Impulse (dub) 
17. Tallan – Pelican 
18. Optimus Gryme – Annhilation Of The Ego 
19. Perverse – Gibberish (dub) 
20. Ghost Note – Dynamic (dub) 
21. Tallan – Sever (dub) 
22. Tallan – Skanka VIP (dub) 
23. Peverelist – Roll With the Punches

Let us know what you think Tallan’s interview and mix via Twitter or Facebook. Lara