Dexter's Beat Laboratory Vol. 144

by Miley Price · May 30, 2020

by: Robyn Dexter May 29, 2020

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.

Stephen Walking · Stephen Walking – Odin’s Ghost

Since July 2011, Stephen Walking has made 36 appearances on Monstercat. He hit the three-dozen mark just this month with “Odin’s Ghost,” a dramatic, synth-filled journey with powerful melodies. “No vocals this time but we’re heavy again,” the producer said of the song’s release. “In love with the art on this one.”

Baauer • PLANET’S MAD JUNE 5 · REACHUPDONTSTOP

Baauer is making a huge statement upon his return, gearing up for the release of his Planet’s Mad LP on June 5. Since early April, he’s been peeling away layers of the upcoming album, with the latest being “REACHUPDONTSTOP.” This wonky tune is unexpected in every sense of the word, with each listen delivering a new sonic experience.

Pilot. · Flite & Audioscribe – Hymn

Flite and Audioscribe take to Pilot for a sensational new collaboration, “Hymn.” A minute-long build-up winds itself into a second drop of sorts, as melodies layer themselves to fold into drum ‘n’ bass madness just before the two-minute mark. It’s unbelievably catchy and full of twists and turns.

Slynk · Slynk & Defunk – Techno Viking

Slynk and Defunk usher their new song, “Techno Viking,” in with a melancholy piano melody and rhythmic clapping. A walking bassline then takes over, incorporating a slow by steady build before a filtered vocal commands, “walk like a techno viking.” This synth-injected tune goes for a funky walk over the course of its nearly four minutes, and it’s a delight.

Uppermost · Fireflies

Uppermost‘s “Chill Mix 2019” was sprinkled with an hour and a half of intoxicating beats and laidback dance music elements. Tucked in the first half hour of the mix was a track that would later become “Fireflies.” The single infuses nu-disco elements into an otherwise relaxed atmosphere, creating a dynamic auditory experience.