Dexter's Beat Laboratory Vol. 131

by: Robyn Dexter Feb 28, 2020

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Dexter’s Beat Laboratory is a weekly collection of songs from DA managing editor Robyn Dexter. With a taste that can only be described as eclectic—to say nothing of a name that lends itself to punnery—DA is happy to present a selection of tracks personally curated by Dexter for your listening pleasure.

Listen in playlist format here. 

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Bristol-based duo Icarus are preparing to unveil their Unfold project to the world, preceded by a new single, “Fade Away.” The pair call this latest tune one of the “more club focused tracks” from the upcoming project, exhibited in its grooving bassline and infectious melodies primed for a late-night dance floor.

Last Island‘s May 2019 Sustain EP concluded with a tune called “Let Stars Fall,” which brought with it a relaxing electro atmosphere. Here, at the beginning of 2020, the Scottish producer kicks it up a notch with a VIP iteration of the tune. He opts for a much swifter pace, making it irresistibly groovy.

2020 has summoned the return of A-Trak and Armand Van Helden‘s beloved Duck Sauce project, leading off with “Smiley Face” and followed up on Feb. 28 with “Get To Steppin.” The extended cut of this funky dance floor number delivers nearly six full minutes of a smooth bassline, saxophone, and a catchy vocal sample of The Fatback Band’s 1974 “Keep on Steppin’.”

One of Bassrush‘s newest releases has delivered two of the US drum ‘n’ bass scene’s fastest rising producers on one track through Reaper and AWOLTALK‘s “Hysteria.” Truly formidable in nature despite its short length, “Hysteria” wastes no time diving into a dark melody and picking up speed. It’s a polished example of the high-quality, unique dnb that’s rising out of the States.

Liquicity Records‘ release radar is highlighted this week by a fresh slice of drum ‘n’ bass perfection from T & Sugah. The Dutch producers have done it again, marking their first release of the year with the emotional journey that they’ve named “Is This Love.” The vocalist asks again and again”—is this love?”—as the drums race and melody dances back and forth, all combining to kick off what’s sure to be another successful year for these two.