The internet aye, who ever knew it could be such a reactionary place? When it was announced that Audio had signed to RAM, certain folk who inhabit the dark corners of cyberspace let out a collective sigh of fear, worried the man known for his heavy tech inspired sound would start producing tunes more akin to Rudimental (who I love) than those found on his Virus Recordings releases. Perhaps I am exaggerating slightly, though only in keeping with the best traditions of the internet after all.
Alas, fear not! Audio’s debut release on the label is here and it’s fair to say he hasn’t forgot to bring the filth, delivering two of the heaviest dirtiest bangers this side of a high street at kicking out time. Having been on an upward trajectory over the last few years, including holding the honour of knocking EDM super Swede Avicii from the number one spot on Beatport, the release of Heads Up/Stampede is sure to send the momentum into overdrive.
‘Heads Up’ is an absolute stormer, opening with a brooding cinematic sample which cracks up the tension before Audio releases the terror with a menacing use of scratchy and stabbing synths, all backed by the heavy drums which have become part of his signature sound. It’s as heavyweight of a tune as you can get and one to drop when you feel like descending the dancefloor into chaotic madness.
The second of the tracks, Stampede, once again makes brilliant use of a sample as is custom with an Audio release. The reference to people losing their minds and reverting back to their animal instincts, while the sinister sounds of our primate cousins taunting you works perfectly before the tune drops into a bass extravaganza. Its all in keeping with the neurofunk sound the man has built is ever growing reputation on. Compared to Heads Up, you could argue this is the lighter offering of the two, though only in the context of the release. It’s like telling your stumbling mate to lay off the Absinth and sober up with a hearty Vodka; ultimately they are both lethal.
On a side note, the signing of Audio to the RAM collective shows a label which isn’t afraid to have its cake and eat it, with a roster of artists covering all the drum and bass world has to offer. In terms of the genre, this is as far apart from say Wilkinsons ‘Afterglow’ as its possible to be and Ram should be given credit for the versatility of it’s line up.
Audio has shown with the first release on his new label he intends to continue and expand on the signature sound he is known for and if this just a taster for things to come, well I am more than ready for the full course.
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