Drum+Basics

Featured Mix: Fanu – Dispatch Label Mix

A true master of all things breakbeat, Fanu, steps up for this month’s Dispatch Recordings Label mix. As a guest DJ we’ve wanted to include in our mix series for a long time, he delivers an hour of music packed with unreleased treasures and label favourites.

TRACKLIST:

Fanu – One of These Days (unreleased)
Mister Shifter – Reverie (unreleased)
Aeon Four – Essence (Forthcoming on Straight Up Breakbeat)
Hologroove – Fractal Zoom (unreleased)
Park Shadow – November (Straight Up Breakbeat)
Hologroove – System Styx (unreleased)
Need For Mirrors – Grapefruit (Dispatch)
tSito – Refracted (unreleased)
Fanu – Techstep Weed (Bandcamp exclusive)
Cern & Verb – Degeneration (Dispatch)
Quartz – Blacklist (Metalheadz)
NC-17 & Kumarachi – Cache (Dispatch)
Detboi x Fanu x Adred x Manos x Mister Shifter – Reverse Wounds (unreleased)
Detboi – Metal On Metal (unreleased)
Fistfunk – Tetsuo (Lightless)
Øval – Triangulation [TRC2 remix] (Make Or Break)
Fanu – Reverse Dawn (Dispatch)
TRC2 – Just a Game (unreleased)
DJ Sofa – The Only Boy I Ever Loved (Racked)

Exclusive: Conjunction Recordings Content LP Promo Mix

Tracklist for the guest mix:

Catalyst.AD – Reflections of Ten
Catalyst.AD – Deception
J Centrik – The Path Not Taken
J Centrik – Answer To Everything
Ascension – Enchanted Quest
J Centrik – Signs of Life
Konnect – Dystopian Summer
Catalyst.AD – Too Far Gone (Conrad Subs Remix)
Catalyst.AD – How Did We Get Here Remix
Ascension – It’s Time
Carnagous – Stampede
Konnect – Six Foot Deep (Conrad Subs Remix)
Catalyst.AD – Off the Chain
Carnagous – Trojan Horse
J Centrik – Fine You
Catalyst.AD & K.I.M – One Time
Carnagous – Pillage
Catalyst.AD – Nose Bone Funk
Carnagous – Tribal Static
Ascension – Fade Away
Catalyst.AD – Form of Expression (Conjunction Dub)
Catalyst.AD – Guardian (Conjunction Dub)

Behind The Label update: Conjunction Recordings + Exclusive Guest Mix

Conjunction Recordings is a label run by Catalyst.AD & K.I.M since 2018 and we had a chat with Catalyst.AD in 2020 & we felt like it is time for an update to check what has been going on since then…

If you want to read the interview from 2020, head to it HERE.

Hey Paul aka Catalyst.AD and thank you for answering our questions. Massive congratulations to your success with your label! Last time we spoke was in 2020 when the label had been running for a year or so. What has been going on since then and has anything changed in terms of your vision with the label and how you work? It’s been a busy but enjoyable 3 years for us as a label, we originally set it up as an “underground bass music” label but the majority of our music has been drum and bass with some occasional 140 BPM tracks featured on our E.P’s. Variety is still key for us which is why we launched the “Dreamology” series which showcases the deeper more liquid side of the music. We also have plans to launch a number of bandcamp exclusive releases that will feature a variety of music up and down the BPM’s. The label was originally going to be a platform for my own music, however our vision has changed a little after receiving some amazing music from some of our friends within the scene, as well as music from some exciting new artists such as J Centrik who’s tracks have been really popular. In honesty, its grown faster than we imagined which has been great so opening the label up to other artists has been a big plus for us.

You mentioned in 2020 that you were aiming for around 4-6 releases per year where the focus is on quality rather than quantity, was this something that became reality or did you have to change your approach? With the obvious implications of the pandemic we did question whether to put things on hold but soon came to the conclusion that the music had to carry on regardless. I’d say we have averaged about 3 releases a year with the majority being 4 track E.P’s, in addition to this we have also had some free download releases that are only available from our label shop. These seem to have gone down really well too which is encouraging.

What are you looking for in terms of releasing music? As a label, we are always happy to listen to new up and coming artists, however, we are not concerned how many social media followers they have, we are purely about the music. We tend to favour the deeper side of the music, anything that has a groove and a real element of musicality, whether it be raw cutting edge techy drum and bass or deep liquid rollers, we feel the label has a versatile approach to what we release.

What can artists do to get in contact with you guys? Artists can submit demos to us via email – info@conjunctionrecordings.com. We always ask that Artists also send us a little bit of information about themselves even if it’s just a link to a biog. We like to know their musical influences and background.

Your latest release is out NOW on Bandcamp and it sounds wicked! It got a mixture of new & familiar names and fresh music – what can you tell us about that? So with the next release being our landmark 10th instalment, we wanted to do something special and go a bit bigger. We started preparing for this over a year ago and the aim was to showcase all of our artists that have featured so far. The end result is a 10 track album with a couple of tracks from each artist. We decided to aim this straight at the dancefloor with quality hard hitting drum and bass that will hopefully leave a mark. We drafted in our remix man Conrad Subs who did an amazing remix of Konnect’s “Six Foot Deep” to accompany their aptly entitled “Dystopian Summer” which they began working on during the covid lockdown. J Centrik also came up trumps with his contributions that were a little different to his deeper liquid style of drum and bass, however he really surprised us with his versatility and the promos have been received really well. MC turned producer Carnagous has also gone from strength to strength and came through with two absolute bangers that we knew would fit well into the project. Another artist who is fairly new to the label is Ascension who dropped his debut track on our last Dreamology E.P. He is another artist who has really impressed us with the music he has sent us and his two tracks on the album are also really suited to the labels sound.

Are there more exciting releases we can expect from Conjunction in the near future? Absolutely, before the year is out there will be another 4 tracker from myself entitled the “Form Of Expression” E.P. that will feature some exciting new tracks that capture a lot of my influences from over the years with a fresh, forward-thinking twist. After that we have our next volume of the “Dreamology” series so expect to hear some amazing new deep drum and bass from J Centrik. As earlier mentioned, we also are aiming to launch our bandcamp exclusive arm that will feature some very exciting experimental music from the artists on the label.

Where can we find your releases and keep updated with everything Conjunction Recordings? Our releases can be found in all major digital stores such as Juno and Beatport as well as streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal to name a few. The best place however, is our bandcamp store where we release music exclusively 2 weeks before general release. You can also find free tracks here too. Our website (conjunctionrecordings.com) not only provides a direct link to our bandcamp store, but also contains news updates on what we are doing as well as information on all of our artists. You can also keep up to date with the label via our socials – Facebook / Twitter / Instagram and we always feature previews of forthcoming releases as well as mixes and radio shows at soundcloud.com/catalyst-ad. We also have a little special something lined up for Bandcamp Friday so keep your eyes peeled for that

You have also done a mix for us which we are looking forward listening to, what can we expect from that? I really enjoyed putting this mix together as it contains purely music from Conjunction Recordings. It’s an hour long mix that contains all the tracks from the forthcoming “Content” album, as well as some hand picked tracks from the past 3 years and some fresh dubs that will be coming out later this year, so you have a bit of past, present and future! Check out the mix from Catalyst HERE.

Aside from the label; what have you & KIM been up to lately and is there anything we can look forward to hear? K.I.M. and myself have been in the studio working on some new material that will no doubt surface on release within the next year or so. We have also been DJ-ing regularly at local events hosted by Rollercoasterz (shouts to Zanya and DJ Hi Top!). I have also been continuing my radio shows on RudeFM.com, the station is now 31 years old and is a radio station that really gives me the platform to showcase the music to a like minded audience.

Any final last words? Would just like to thank all of our followers so far whether you buy our music or listen to our radio shows, it really is appreciated. Also would like to thank all of our artists who have helped the label grow so much in 3 years and George Guzi who is our mastering engineer. Also can’t forget the DJs that play our music and of course London’s number one D&B station RudeFM.com who provide us with a great platform to showcase our music.

Thank you!

Featured Set: Lubi J @ Noise Test 2023 [Welsh producers set]

My all Wales-based/Welsh producers’ set from this year’s Noise Test festival.
Due to a storm closing the club the first night, I didn’t get to play a full set, so I wanted to record the full hour when I got back.

Massive shouts to Hoxe, LION.UK, NonRev, Optimystic, Shodan, TRC2 and Jetta for sharing their beats with me and helping me shine a light on Wales! Be sure to check them out on socials and Bandcamp! Also included a track that Shodan and I made under my producer alias ‘Lw’ – my first collab! Hope you enjoy :)

Tracklist:

Jetta – Believe in me (Soundcloud)
Optimystic – Flowers of Change (forthcoming)
Leftfield – Swords (NonRev bootleg)
TRC2 – ID
TRC2 – Exposed to Vibration (TRC2 Bandcamp)
Shodan – ID
TRC2 – ID
Optimystic – The Stakes (forthcoming)
Shodan & Lw – Supernova (unreleased)
Hoxe – Trouble Town (unreleased)
LION.UK – Drum Funk (unreleased)
NonRev – Last I heard (forthcoming on Eternal Soul)
LION.UK – Trouble at midnight (unreleased)
Hoxe – Urbs an ting (unreleased)
Optimystic & Brute Engine – Stress Scape (forthcoming on Alphacut Records)
Hoxe – A special (unreleased)
NonRev – Every Single Sound (unreleased)
NonRev – Break the Spell (unreleased)

Featured Mix: Mindset – Devon’s Road @ Loki Promo Mix

After the launch of their jungle and hardcore label in 2021 and a run of successful Thursday night parties, Devon’s Road recordings finally announce their first Saturday night party at Loki in Brixton on 29th July 2023.

Devons Road artists will be joined on the night by Threshold, Jay Cunning and G Magikal so you can expect guaranteed vibes and a fun lively crowd!

Peace, music, love & having fun!

Line up

Threshold
Jay Cunning
G Magikal
Anti Traxx
Bomb Shelter Crew
Rhi Spect
E.Hill
Mindset

MCs O.D. and Dizzie Danger

GET YOUR TICKET NOW!

Featured Mix: Bomb Shelter Crew – Loki Promo Mix

Bomb Shelter Crew have done us a wikkid promo mix ahead of our party down at Loki, Brixton on 29th July!

This mix also features some kind words from some of our loyal ravers! Big ups Eli, Bonnie, & Marlon!

Devons Road artists will be joined on the night by Threshold, Jay Cunning and G Magikal so you can expect guaranteed vibes and a fun lively crowd!

Peace, music, love & having fun!

Line up

Threshold
Jay Cunning
G Magikal
Anti Traxx
Bomb Shelter Crew
Rhi Spect
E.Hill
Mindset

MCs O.D. and Dizzie Danger

Tickets for Loki: RA

Featured Mix: We Out Here Week – DJ Flight

Featured Radio Show: Rhi Spect on AAJA with special guest Basic Rhythm

Latest show on @aajamusic from Rhi Spect ft new releases, Devon’s Road material and exclusives from @lmajor @rundrmusic @hooverianblur @moakz and @thebombsheltercrew and @stretch_ako plus wicked guest mix from @basicrhythm jam packed with dubs, exclusives and future bangers!

Rhi Spect

1. Tim Reaper & Coco Bryce – E Is For (Sonar’s Ghost Remix)Tim &
Coco’s Pack Of Lies
2. RUNDR – 287 – THE WESTBOUND E.P.
3. Kid Lib – Not Right – Time Zones
4. Hooverian Blur – Skatterbox Triple Menace / Skatterbox
5. Joden – Sw££tst
6. BOMB SHELTER CREW – JUST SHHHHHH – Devons Road Recordings
7. Charla Green, Outrage, Tim Clay, Digital – Drumbeat 160 Jungle EP
8. Moakz – Back To The Earth – CODERCRDS006
9. L Major – On A Praye
10. DJ Monita & K-Rox The Bommer – Skeleton Recordings
11. TYPE – Soon Come Chaos
12. L Major – Too Bad
13. Sully, Coco Bryce, Dwarde & Tim Reaper – Synergy (Sully Remix)
14. Anti Traxx – Westpoint – Devons Road Recordings
15. Demented Soul, Stretch, Enjoy Demented Soul – Stay (Stretch &
Enjoy Remix)

BASIC RHYTHM

This accomplished and talented DJ/producer and former Rude FM DJ has been working steadily behind the scenes in jungle/dnb for some time and in the last 5 years has had a string of successful releases on labels such as @repertoiresound Sneaker Social Club, Future Retro and Straight up Breakbeat – all this as well as running his own label Raw Basics and preparing for the launch of @musiquenocturnerecords coming this year. His sound is gritty, his drums are serious and precise and his bass is weighty so you can expect a no-nonsense mix with a lot of rhythm. Enjoy!

Exclusive: Healing Crew Jazfest Promo Mix

Exclusive Interview: Bassline MC (Happy 50th Birthday!)

Hey Jazmah aka Bassline MC and thank you for answering my questions for Drum+Basics – what an honour! Let us start from the beginning… How long have you been an MC & how did you get started?

Well, I would say around about 19-20 years ago and I actually got into it by complete accident really. So at the time before internet/soundclouds/spotifys etc, people listened to actual radio radio. I used to listen to Rude fm 88.2 whenever I could get the chance. So it turns out they were having a party in Bromley by Bow, at Club Rose I think. Me and a friend went down there. He actually got kicked out and but I stayed. They had an upstairs floor, which I only just realised… I went up there and it was going off. I basically asked if I could have a go and they crazily said yes. From there I met most of the Rude Fm family and ended up moving in with dj Haze in a flat in Hackney. We started doing a few sets together on the radio and it went from there. Along the way I met Keira from EOC. I remember jumping on the mic for them at Plan B in Brixton during that time which was around 2004. And that where it all started really…

Do you remember your first rave? The first rave question, that is like when did you lose your virginity type question. You’ll never forget it. My first rave was Jungle Fever ‘The Lion returns’ 1994 at Roller Express. For me it was basically a game changer, I was well into the music, I loved it so going there was like the cherry on top of a cake. I remember standing in the rave and thinking ‘this is me for the rest of my life’

What drew you into this music scene and what do you think is special about it? Jungle is an combination of reggae, sound system culture and rave music all in one form. Before I got into jungle I listened to loads of acid house, rave and hardcore. When I heard Voodoo ray for the first time…I was like yeah I’m in.
But the first time I heard jungle or (jungle techno) what it was then called, I can only describe it as akin to what people say their first religious experience was. I remember being in my bedroom, trying to find something to listen to on the radio. As the station I normally listened to got hit by the DTI (old heads will know hahaha) and I basically came across jungle techno. I loved it instantly and have not looked back since. For me personally what I think is special about this music, is that I was born a jungalist and the music found me. I have met my friends for life through it, had some amazing nights and experiences through it. It still excites me to this day.

You are a legend in the scene and seem to be one of these solid MCs who never gets repetitive or outdated – why do you think that is? I think I just try to be myself really. What you see on stage is the same person you see off it.

Do you ever get bored of this music? I think everybody that are into this music has times were they get bored or dislike it. But then you hear a track or listen to a set and it brings you straight back into it again. Well for me yes! haha!

How do you prepare for a set? For bookings I always really want to know who I’m working with, so I can try and gauge how to work the set. If its someone new I try to find old sets and have a listen. Usually pre rave I still get really nervous. But try and channel that energy into the set.

What music do you listen to outside of dnb/jungle? I listen to loads of different podcasts and whole heap of techno!

BIG party for your 50th which we are super excited about; what can you tell us about the line up?

Well, the line up is a really special one for me. I’m a massive Kemistry and Storm/Metalheadz Bluenote era fan so to get Dj Storm to play was amazin; I actually felt emotional when it was confirmed. Dj Storm is an amazing DJ so having her bless my party is massive for me. Dj Stretch is also a legend. I love the reinforced and Tom n Jerry sound; so pivotal to our scene – so having him on board blew my mind a bit lol

Nookie; another giant in this music – again I was properly gassed when he came on board, he used to always smash Essence Of Chi nights to bits and I know he’ll do the same at JAZFEST. Healing Crew: They were literally the first name on our artist list. They’re some of my oldest friends and there was no way we could do this without them. LS Dare: I’ve known him for nearly 10 years and he’s also one of my close friends. He’s always supported and helped me on journey. He runs the whistles and horns nights, which is doing bits at the moment.

Mystery guest DJ: Again another person who has helped me on my journey. Can’t wait for their set. Can’t say too much or I’ll give it away!

Flava; legend from Rude FM – she was the first person I thought of when thinking of a Rude fm dj. We became friends via radio before we actually met. She is well excited for the night. The Rush hour set will special.

Also all the mcs; Miss Trouble, Agman Gora, K-Eye, Blackeye are all mcs that I’ve worked with over the years, they are all fantastic. Special mention to K-Eye coming from Ibiza to mc on the night.

What advice would you give any upcoming MC who wants to make it in the scene? Just be yourself. And be nice… It helps.

Any famous last words? Shouts: Keira EOC, Peds Corner crew, Break, Rupture Family, Dj Haze, Fugee, Rude FM, Ben Jones (Young-gun). I don’t want to miss anyone out so big up to everyone who helped and supported me in this journey. Thank you all…and Love.

Big mix from Healing Crew uploaded to get you in the mood for Saturday <3 You can listen to it HERE

See you all on the 1 July for the big celebration of Bassline MC

JAZFEST
BASSLINE MC’S 50TH BIRTHDAY BASHMENT
SATURDAY 1st JULY 2023
@ PECKHAM AUDIO
133 RYE LANE
LONDON SE15 4ST
11.30PM – 06.00 AM

LINE UP:

STORM (Classics Set)
NOOKIE & FIVE ALIVE MC
STRETCH (Reinforced Set)
MYSTERY GUEST DJ & MC Blackeye
FLAVA & BASSLINE MC (Rude FM Rush Hour!)
LS DARE
HEALING CREW
With vocal support from…
K EYE
MISS TROUBLE & SPECIAL GUEST
AGMAN GORA

LTD ADVANCE TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM Resident Advisor
DONATIONS – MORE ON THE DOOR
ALL PROFITS DONATED TO MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT & MAGGIE’S CANCER CARE.
PLEASE GIVE GENEROUSLY.
CANCER & DANCE YOUR SOCKS OFF.

Further info:
07817 706484
essenceofchi@gmail.com
linktr.ee/whistlecrewhornscrew
www.instagram.com/essenceofchi_dnb/

Exclusive Interview: DJ Stretch

Hey Stretch and thank you for answering my questions for us! Been a while… Last time we interviewed you in 2016 you linked up with DNB 4 Life for events, started to sell merch & had some cheeky collabs with a few big names. What has been happening since then?

Wow, it’s been that long since we had a chat! Well, let’s see if I can condense this and I’m clearly going to miss out on a lot of things… So, we started releasing compilations and solo LPs on the label and continuing to push awesome music and stay true to our sound with some great releases. Started a few sub labels which have now become household favourites and the supporters are growing. AKO Nights have really taken off which has been an unbelievable journey and makes me very proud that I continue with it. When lockdown happened, I wasn’t sure we would continue but after doing a boat party and our first club event last year was absolutely amazing plus having a few legends pass through to show support meant a lot.

AKO celebrated 25 years and that makes me very proud to see the journey the label, music and artists have made in that time.

We managed to put together a 25 year documentary during lockdown and I must send a personal shout out to Verity from Rave Report for all her hard work and N.E Girl who did the editing on the documentary. We also released some Nike/AKO combo merch. I worked on and released an album with my brother Enjoy, we also had a big release on Metalheadz in collaboration with Reinforced records earlier this year.

How did you end up in the dnb/jungle scene?

I was always listening and buying music from the acid & hardcore days and was a big Reinforced fan along with Production House, Suburban Base, Moving Shadows etc and was going to raves when I was underage with my cousin Stephen. I’d gone round my mates Joseph house and seen him making music on his Amiga and eventually I bought myself an Amiga. My brother was also a DJ and was playing a lot of that music, so I was digging and learning. Eventually I connected to Reinforced through a family friend and started to learn my trade as I was DJing in my bedroom a lot. I also linked up with a friend from the area and we started to make music when the tune ‘Worries and The Dance’ was made, and after a special night at AWOL the tune absolutely blew up and completely changed my life in music and has given me the opportunity to travel the world. That’s a condensed version, there’s obviously a lot more that went into my past.

Of course, most of us know that you are not just a DJ, you are also a label owner for AKO Beatz which you started in 1995 if I am right and then re-launched it in 2014 after taking a break from it. How has it been since the relaunch for your label?

It’s definitely been the best decision I’ve made as the label is in such a strong position and has made all the hard work, highs and lows, worth it and I still feel like we’re just getting started with all the plans I have.

What is the hardest part of running a label?

I think the constant costs, especially in terms of price of vinyl materials going up; a lot of people don’t understand that material constantly keeps going up and some of us are constantly trying to keep the price down. the love for music can only go so far when you’re actually trying to run a business as well. The way the world is going at the moment, you just have to be on your A-game and smart about what you’re releasing, which is a positive thing also. Impatient artists can often get on my nerves sometimes, they don’t realise I actually have a 9-5 job, and a family life outside of music so I have to balance everything and not burn out. Also, people think they can have an opinion on how you run your label…

What is the best part with running it?

Working with a lot of the artists on the label; I have conversations with them and we always end up feeling motivated and eager to get the studio to do something. I have a lot of these conversations with Decibella, Marc Mac, Enjoy & Threshold to name a few. Getting new music, locating unreleased gems & finding new artists who want to learn and seeing them shine when the moment comes on the label.

The creative side when talking concepts, I always drive to look at the next thing.

What do you have planned for AKO Beatz in the future?

There is a lot planned, so here is a few…

The AKO Major Defence sub label; we have the new Defender 2 album coming and we’re in the process of doing a Major Defence game and some more comic books. We have a couple of solo artist albums planned, an I’m looking into animation and I’m building something a little bit different. We have a couple of solo artist albums planned, including an AKO10 album that has been sitting there for a little while. We have more nights planned along with collaboration nights with other labels, and a new line of merch dropping soon. Currently, we are updating the website which is looking really nice and should be ready within a few weeks.

Where did the name come from?

AKO stems from the 47 Ronin Samurai from AKO in Japan and The Guyver, which was one of my Alias name on Reinforced so I’ve merged the two.

How do you choose artists to be released on AKO?

I’m looking for a vibe; a soulful sound where it’s not sounding mechanical or following a format like a lot of tunes I hear. I also don’t want to hear blatant copying or remixes of mine or music on Reinforced – that’s an instant no with me and it gets shut down. Just be true to yourself and take your time when producing your tracks.

You are also running a very successful night for AKO Beatz, usually Halloween (which I still haven’t been able to go to) – do you have more of these planned? What do you enjoy with organising raves?

Yes, we will be doing AKOWEEN as it is now known as. I couldn’t stop the AKO nights even if I wanted too. It has a special family atmosphere. The AKO Tribe get excited around that time of year so we’re just finalising a few things now, so expect an announcement soon.

I love the build-up to the night; you see the excitement on social media where people planning their outfits and DJs thinking about their sets. The crowd level up every single year with their costumes and their energy especially on the night. I think my favourite part of the night is when I play because that’s me giving back my gratitude to the crowd for supporting the night and that moment is my time to escape from thinking about everything around me and just concentrating on playing music. I also love that we have a very diverse crowd and everyone feels welcome when they come through the doors, and that’s important to me and artists that perform.

What do you find hard? I think sometimes trying to do most things on your own can become a lot, and then on the night it can be really busy and you don’t get time to take it in and I’ve always said I’ve never fully enjoyed an AKO night from start to finish because I’m busy running around but I get satisfaction from people being happy and DJs enjoying their sets.

We have seen you have been in Japan as well which looked absolutely fantastic! How did this come about? What would you say is the difference between the crowd in the UK & Japan if any?

Originally it came about as I was planning to go and see my brother Dego out there and a couple of my friends Nami and Yuki, as I wanted to explore more of Japan especially the AKO shrine of the 47 Ronin samurai which is a big influence of the label. A couple of people caught wind of it and after some discussions decided we would do a gig or two out there and as time went on the gig became bigger which involves Goldie which made me very happy as it can be quite a buzz to meet your people in another country to enjoy your passion.

I think the crowd in Japan really appreciate you coming out and respecting their culture as an artist or human being. When I played there was no MC along with Goldie, but we connected through music and there was a relationship that is quite crazy. It doesn’t matter where you are in the world, this music connects us and the atmosphere felt the same like being in London. At some point it was an intense atmosphere which I love, where the crowd know something is coming and you know as the DJ something is coming and when it comes the atmosphere is electric. They’re happy with you experimenting and they will feel if you’re in what you’re doing or not, so you can’t come there being too confident and lazy. Japan is definitely one of my favourite places to play and can’t wait to go back.

Producer, label owner, running a label night, DJing – is there anything you CAN’T do?

Hahaha, I think I’m lucky to do the things I enjoy and when you add that with my day job, being a dad and somehow fitting it all into a daily routine, I feel blessed.

Any forthcoming releases we should be excited about?

There’s a few coming soon I’m really excited to have Hidden Agenda with a debut release on AKO10, DJ sofa on AKO MD with her EP (which is fire btw!) and we have the AKO VIP returning along with another special a AKO10 release which will be announcing and the long-awaited Defender 2 album and a lot more.

What’s next for Stretch and AKO Beatz?

I will be playing for Sub Culture in London tonight at Prince Of Peckham and then next weekend we will be celebrating MC Bassline so i will be doing a set at Peckham Audio for Essence Of Chi & Whistle Crew Horn Crew.

We are also planning to keep upgrading the website to be more interactive with supporters. We have loads of releases planned which we are very excited about. We are looking forward to the graphic novels of Defender’s story in the future along with the game album and other surprises linked to the label. Specialist X album, another Last Ronin and Guyver Album. Planning a follow-up EP on Metalheadz with Enjoy. Look out for Verb solo release, DJ Sofa EP, Hidden Agenda Solo release, DJ Chromz and Shay. We have a new merch line dropping soon as well on the new updated website which we think you will love. Sticker packs, Coasters, speakers and you may see some sneakers.

AKO have also collaborated with J.J’s hot sauce and have been releasing a series of flavoured hot sauces which have been taken well and I’ve been selling out. We have our next hot sauces dropping for summer within the next 1 to 2 weeks. With new flavours mad mango and smoking gun fingers.

More AKO nights and collaborations with other promoters and we want to take it around the country and world, if possible, with selected artist. We have some other exciting things planned which I won’t speak about yet as I know some people will try to jump on some of these ideas but the scene is in a beautiful, strong place and there are some great labels and people that I’m proud to call friends and I look forward to the journey together to see everyone grow and live the dream.

What’s next for David?

That’s a very good question as I always think about others, but I do want to go back and study some things that are important to me. I’m very close to my daughters and I want to be there to see them succeed in their dreams as they are very ambitious, creative and been very supportive to me. I want to do more work to support the young generation to achieve and believe they can do anything in this world! I’ve seen so many things we had growing up that have now been taken away, which leaves a lot of young people living their world through a phone or device.

Any final last words?

Shout out to Marc Mac who I speak to a lot about projects and things we want to do going forward. Goldie aka big bro who always checks in on me – love you brother. Dego for having my back and advising when needed. The Reinforced family for setting the foundations and giving us all an opportunity to grow. The Rupture family, Indi and Dubz as I owe them a lot. Nami & Yukie for everything when I was over in Japan, my extended family in Japan. Blackeye, Charlotte (I don’t think I’ve seen you this year), Djinn, Sweetpea, Equinox, Moose, Mr Reaper, Dextrous, Dwarde, Anca, Decibella, Sofa, Dissonance Bristol Crew, J.J’s Hot Sauce, Unearthed Crew, The next generation of talent, all the artists and forthcoming artists on the label. We’re excited for the future!

All the supporters; AKO Tribe that have stuck with us and continue to support through thick and thin – this gives us the drive to keep going and providing you with more products that we know you love and cherish. Shout to Beau the mastering don, all the record plants. Kae Creations, Malx (underrated gem of the scene) – if you know you know. My girls Renee and Shadae continuing to push yourself. My entire music family. Verity nothing but love for you and keep doing your thing I see you shining. NE Girl, Label owners, record shops, big love to Planet Wax. Woody behind-the-scenes at AKO and everyone generally connected to the label + Drum and Basics for the support and interview. And of course, big love to my parents, always! ❤️

Stretch mix incoming as well – watch this space!

akobeatz.com/
akobeatz.bandcamp
soundcloud.com/stretch_ako
www.instagram.com/akobeatz
twitter.com/akobeatz

Exclusive: Cadence Four::mula Promo Mix

Four::mula has announced a brand new debut Drum & Bass event launching on Friday 14th July at The Ton of Brix, London.

The freshly curated Four::mula brand is determined to deliver only the best in Underground D&B representing all generations of the genre and The Ton of Brix is set to be the perfect party premises for the intimate Drum and Bass event. Not holding back on legends for the launch, Bad Company UK will be headlining with a Classics Set alongside Planet V head-honcho Jumpin Jack Frost throwing down that fresh Planet V fire. Four::mula residents comprise of scene stalwarts Promo ZO, 2Shy MC and new comer Cadence whilst Funsta and Moose firm up the bill with their hosting genius. More artists are yet to be announced completing an already heavyweight line-up.

Tickets

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