Utrecht-based producer Locklead debuts on Vatos Locos, alongside a remix from Brawther.
The SlapFunk regular Locklead has been a frequent face across Netherland’s vibrant scene, with releases for the likes of Pleasure Zone, Rawax and Hot Haus Records.
Berlin-based Vatos Locos have been a tastemaker within their own crossovers between moreish tech-house and techno flavours, with sold-out releases from the likes of Japanese veteran Satoshi Tomiie‘s EP late last year.
Each cut from VL013 brings a spicy, club-thirsty energy gasping to tear up the many dance floors awaiting the return of the rave. ‘NDAL0548’ taps into the no-frills, dusty house music pioneered by much of the SlapFunk crew in this premiere.
Slinky, garage-tinged drums frame a rowdy bassline destined to lift the energy of the dance floor. Drums are loaded with punch, carrying a subtle gritty, distorted character adding to the track’s loose, menacing vibe.
Uplifting vocals spouting “the light will save you” bring an extra edge to the mood, dotting between playful synth melodies singing in call and response with the bottom end. Sections are pulled together with simplistic, head first arrangements, whether its the dropping of a hat, or a slick crash cymbal welcoming the kick back to the mix, ‘NDAL0548’ is a DJ’s dream.
‘Tripped Out’ dials into some crafty drum programming in the releases’ A1, wrapping snappy snare drums around a slick bassline and cheeky synth flicks that have seen support from the likes of big guns Seth Troxler and Dubfire, as well as more minimal realms within the SlapFunk roster.
Brawther brings his lean, chord-driven flavours in his reshaping of the A1. Subtle manipulation to the bottom end brings fresh energy, alongside sleek percussion and neat vocal blips.
It’s the kind of zesty, stripped-back house that would send the likes of Amsterdam’s BRET into a frenzy. Sleazy, menacing, and full of energy.
‘Curiosity’ brings a pacey cut to conclude the release. Percussion taps back into garagey ammo with a delightful snare stealing the show, slotting between bleepy melodies and lush chord arrangements.
Buy the release at deejay.de.
More info on Locklead
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