Following a feature on Nerang Recordings’ Freaky Friends V/A compilation last summer, DJ Swagger has returned to the label with a high-energy, four-track EP. Flicking between electro, techno, bass and beyond, DJ Swagger draws upon a multitude of influences to bring us one of the most memorable EPs of 2021 so far.
Opening track “Atomic Fear” kicks things off as we mean to go on; intense breaks are peppered with air-raid sirens and glitchy hi-hats to create a certified dancefloor destroyer. Taking things back to the oldskool, this one’s going to be timeless. “Drybones” does a quick 180, veering down a totally different path. Bass-heavy, with dubstep and early UK influences shining through, it’s a sub-aquatic trip through all sorts of weird and wonderful sounds. The occasional synth bursts through the dark undertones like a ray of light, allowing a brief moment to step back and soak it up before being thrown back into the deep end.
“Trail Of Destruction” serves all sorts of electro-fuelled chaos — audacious vocals, infectious melodies and a healthy dose of wobble all contribute to making it a stand-out on the release. We can only imagine how good this one’s going to sound in a club. The EP is closed off with “Noseblunt,” a four-to-the-floor cut of pounding techno, laced with euphoric melodies and choppy vocals. A million miles away from the rest of the EP, “Noseblunt” is on a journey of its own. Pure energy from start to finish, Bass Hysteria is the perfect showcase for DJ Swagger's range.
Bass Hysteria can be streamed and purchased via Bandcamp.
