Proving once and for all that drum & bass is a global movement, here we have a single produced in Japan, A&R’d in Switzerland, remixed in Holland and distributed via the UK across the world. Thankfully the majority of these processes are done via the internet – otherwise we’re sure someone would have something to say about the carbon footprint of this one! Japanese producer Heavy1 takes to the helm for Demand Records’ third release, following two incredible singles featuring music from Spectrasoul, BTK, Nymfo, Lost Sequence and Codeshaper.
Here you’re offered no reduction in quality as Heavy1 turns out an impeccable ride through drum & bass territory. Slowly opening with scattered hi hats and punctuating kicks, it’s not long before ‘Xiphactinus’ (a predatory fish that lived during the Late Cretaceous period if, like us, you had no idea what this was…) bares its prehistoric teeth, snapping at you with crisp snares and expertly placed sound effects. Basslines judder and bounce back and forth before engulfing you in their mighty jaws! This is undoubtedly the start of great things for Heavy1.
On the flip, Demand enlists yet another well known name to add some remix action to the mix. This time it’s Metalheadz’ Lenzman who steps up, taking ‘Xiphactinus’ down a whole new aesthetic path. Turning a track that holds a brewing, unspoken menace into one with a euphoric edge isn’t an easy task, but Lenzman’s electro leads and warming bass notes manage it effortlessly.With a wave of new material ready for the second half of the year, Demand Records shows no signs of slowing their already incredible pace. Clearly a nomination for one of 2011’s hottest new D&B labels.
DJ Support from Hype, Marky, Basher, Culture Shock, Brookes Brothers, Netsky, London Elektricity, Nu:Tone, Logistics, BCee, Storm, Lee, BTK, Concord Dawn, C4C etc. as well as featured on UKF & DNBA.
