Bass | Ren Zukii Shows Off A Different Side With Virus Syndicate Via ‘Push Up Ya Lighter’
Posted by VMan on May 3, 2024
Ren Zukii, known offstage as Rene Snow, is an artist who really knows how to keep her audience on their toes. From her hometown of Margaret River—a scenic surf spot in Western Australia—Ren’s passion for drum & bass kicked off at just 12 years old. Fast forward to today, and she’s not only a staple in the Australian bass music community but also the first female artist signed exclusively with WAKAAN.
Her recent achievements are pretty impressive. Ren just wrapped up the Touch Bass 2024 tour in Australia, where her performances grabbed everyone’s attention and left fans eager for more. She’s also been making the rounds in the media, featuring on George FM Drive with Sin & Brook in New Zealand and Triple J in Australia earlier in March.
“After being given the opportunity to work with Nik & Jay, I sent them this simple but catchy UKG idea and they sent back their vocal stems—a high energy rap that sounded like it came from an authentic place and it went with the beat so well, lyrically and musically.”
– Ren Zukii
“We had so much fun working on this record with Ren. As soon as it hit the inbox we were both really inspired to write and It’s such a unique soundscape it really gave us lots of freedom to explore lyrically. The end result is something special. A record that will stand the test of time and transcend musical boundaries. We’re super excited for this one to drop on the mighty Wakaan and can’t wait for the fans to hear what we created together. Big shout to Ren every time! Huge talent!” – Virus Syndicate
Now, she’s released, “Push Up Ya Lighter,” a collaboration with the UK’s hip-hop duo Virus Syndicate. Out now under the WAKAAN label, this track brings a fresh twist to her style. It’s a fusion of UKG, breaks, and dark synth chords that creates a full-bodied, vocal-heavy rhythm perfect for breaking the tension in her live sets.
Studying music production at university, Ren developed a distinct style that has truly set her apart in the bass music scene. Her series of successful releases on Liquid Stranger’s label, WAKAAN, showcases her growth and adaptability as an artist. With every new track, Ren continues to redefine her sound, keeping her music fresh and her fans hooked.
Albums | Viral Sensation M Dot R Releases Latest Dancehall Single “Two Halves”
Posted by VMan on May 2, 2024
UK-based artist M Dot R is no stranger to making waves in the music scene, especially after the massive success of his viral single “Turn Red.” Now, he’s back with “Two Halves,” a track that boldly ventures into uncharted territory, fusing elements of grime and Dancehall in a way that’s as innovative as it is infectious. With “Two Halves,” M Dot R proves once again that he’s a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. As he gears up to set the internet ablaze yet again, one thing’s for certain: M Dot R shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
Albums | Leo Wood “Venus” ft Leo Wood Live in Paradise Valley, Morocco
Posted by VMan on May 1, 2024
In the vast realm of electronic music, where beats pulse and synths hum, Leo Wood stands as a beacon of innovation and creativity. Following the massive online success of her collaborative single “Venus” with Alpha Rhythm, taken from her debut album ‘The Planets,’ Wood takes us on a breathtaking journey with a live performance in Morocco’s Paradise Valley. For those craving a musical adventure like no other, Leo Wood is the guide you’ve been waiting for. Follow her across social media for the latest updates, and prepare to be swept away by her boundless creativity and infectious energy.
Electronic | Able Grey & Meridian Team Up On Epic And Trippy ‘In The Forest’
Posted by VMan on April 29, 2024
Dive into the epic adventure that is “In The Forest,” a thrilling collaboration between Able Grey and Meridian, brought to life by Ex Medias. This track, pulsing at 110 BPM, invites listeners to a dance of introspection and energy through its profound bass and sharp percussion. Each listen reveals new layers of its dark, mysterious aura, highlighted by squeaky-clean wubs in the drop.
The making of “In The Forest” was a journey of experimentation and creativity. Meridian explored new territories in sound design, focusing on innovative mixing and layering to craft engaging bass sounds that define the track’s funky midtempo vibe. Meanwhile, Able Grey, not confined to a single concept, embraced a fluid and open approach, allowing the partnership to steer the creative process. This collaboration resulted in a track that truly represents a blend of their artistic identities, a beautiful thing that’s all too common in today’s era.
Able Grey, renowned for his distinctive live performances that incorporate an electronic drum pad and MIDI controller, continues to make waves in the Chicago music scene. His upcoming appearances include a performance at the Chicago Beyond Wonderland festival and an opening slot for Clozee and Daily Bread at Radius Chicago. His vibrant live shows are not to be missed, which feature a mix of original tracks and edits, consistently bring the heat to audiences.
Meridian, known for his refusal to be boxed into any single genre, brings a enchanting energy to his tracks and live performances. At just 26, he has made significant strides in the music industry, performing at top Chicago venues and festivals, and supporting renowned artists. His ability to blend different styles within electronic dance music has crafted a unique sonic identity that keeps audiences guessing as to what is coming next.
Albums | Cousin Vinny Shares New Single “Too Humble”
Posted by VMan on April 27, 2024
Indian-American artist and producer Cousin Vinny, based out of Chicago, Illinois, has just unveiled his latest single, “Too Humble”, marking the final chapter of a compelling trilogy of releases. Following the success of his previous singles “Relax” and “Capone”, Cousin Vinny continues to captivate audiences with his distinct style and introspective lyricism.
Cousin Vinny’s musical journey has been one of evolution and exploration. His debut album, Fear of Missing Out (2019), introduced listeners to his dynamic range of styles, earning him recognition as a SoFarSounds Chicago artist and paving the way for further artistic endeavours. In 2021, he pushed the boundaries with Method To The Madness 1: Momentum, an ambitious project intertwining sonic innovation with a narrative inspired by Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
Now, after a brief hiatus, Cousin Vinny returns with “Too Humble”, a cold, hype, introspective hip-hop track that delves deep into the struggles of imposter syndrome and self-discovery. Accompanied by a visually stunning music video directed by Cousin Vinny alongside Gasper Gomez, the song serves as a poignant conclusion to the thematic trilogy.
In his own words, Cousin Vinny elaborates on the meaning behind the single and its accompanying visuals: “The video completes the trilogy, laying out a deep introspective of what it means to be an artist and the battles many face with imposter syndrome while trying to be the character they want. Highlighting the battle a lot of artists face when they aren’t able to necessarily live the life they’d like to portray in their music and how they have to come to terms/face to face with that. And that the best therapist is yourself to understand who you are.”
With “Too Humble”, Cousin Vinny continues to push the boundaries of contemporary hip-hop, offering listeners an authentic and thought-provoking musical experience.
Drum & Bass | Feint Reveals Brisk, Fun-Loving Drum & Bass Song ‘Hope I Did Okay’
Posted by VMan on April 27, 2024
Andrew Hu, better known as Feint, has carved a niche for himself in the drum and bass arena with his distinctive musical style. Starting his career on a high note, he made his debut on Monstercat’s “001 – Launch Week,” which opened doors to a lasting partnership with the label. Feint’s arc in the music industry has been nothing short of remarkable, marked by successful collaborations and a growing discography that fans thrive on.
His affiliation with Liquicity Records has led to a series of popular releases, echoing his unique approach to music production. Tracks like “We Won’t Be Alone” and “Words,” featuring Laura Brehm, have become fan favorites, amassing millions of plays and becoming staples in the drum and bass community.
Feint’s latest offering, “Hope I Did Okay,” is a robust addition to his musical repertoire. This track captures the essence of Feint’s artistry. The drop introduces an unexpected twist, incorporating mid-tempo elements that elevate the listening experience, making it both refreshing and exhilarating.
“Hope I Did Okay” seems destined to become a beloved track among fans and a highlight in Feint’s career. It’s a vibe that not only fills dance floors but also sticks with you long after the party ends.
House | [Interview] A Rescued Pup, A Live Electronic Duo, A Demanding Tour Schedule – Hear The Story Of CHKLZ
Posted by VMan on April 25, 2024
In 2023, the Phoenix New Times honored CHKLZ as the Best Dance Artist, a title that only scratches the surface of this duo’s compelling journey in the music scene. Comprising DJ iLL Choppo and LeMarshawn Jean, CHKLZ is a electronic dance duo with a dynamic narrative of community and creativity sparked by a serendipitous rescue of a small white dog named Charlie, or “Chuckles,” on a hot Fourth of July.
The duo’s name, CHKLZ, chosen by LeMarshawn Jean, cleverly stands out while hinting at their approach to music—a playful yet thoughtful fusion of live elements and electronic influences. DJ iLL Choppo’s background as a seasoned drummer infuses their music with a rhythmic richness that transforms each concert into a unique, energetic experience.
Their musical journey is characterized by independence and an extensive touring footprint that includes performances across the USA, Mexico, Canada, Australia, and Costa Rica—all achieved without the aid of an agent. This independent streak brought them a surprising twist at Alberta’s Friendzy Fest 2023, where a last-minute schedule change put them in a prime nighttime slot, this jolted their music profile and leading to more festival appearances and headline gigs.
CHKLZ is also revisiting their musical roots with an upcoming remix of “White Wine Spritzer” by Okilly Dokilly, blending their early heavy metal elements with their current upbeat house influences, which only exemplifies their evolving sound.
Their story is more than a tale of accolades or a sequence of events; it’s about making real connections through music, celebrating inclusivity, and carrying the joyful spirit of Chuckles wherever they go, proving that sometimes, the best stories are those that feel a bit like home.
These boys have a story to tell. We chatted with them on a variety of subjects, see the full interview below.
INTERVIEW
CHKLZ seems to have a strong community focus. How important is that community to your identity as artists?
A: It’s everything to us. Community is at the focus of everything that we do. In this community we all identify as “Doggies” because anyone from anywhere and any walk of life can be a “Doggie!” In this community, we look past even modern labels to make sure all always feel welcomed in our pack!
Without a strong community, we have no relationships and no career. Our community is the lifeblood of our ecosystem. And within that community, our strongest focus always has been, and always will be, inclusivity.
We feel that music needs to create community and unite people, not divide them socially. I have never been in “the in crowd” my whole life, always feeling like I have been going against the grain because I speak and play from only from the heart! I never wanted to be carbon copy of anyone.
I also got bullied and made fun of often growing up because I was always willing to be myself in nature. It bothered me sometimes back then, but as I grew out of caring about what other people think, I look back and realize all of those moments built me to whom I am today. And those memories serve as a main focus of our communal intentions to make people feel joy about who they are and where they come from. That what makes them unique is what makes them beautiful, no matter what walk of life people come from. And we believe that whole heartedly about our identity as artists, without question.
How do you ensure that every fan, new or old, feels part of the ‘Doggies’ community at your shows?
A: We always do our best to check in with our audiences at our live sets. We like to make sure the Doggies are letting loose and having a great time at our shows. We also arrive early and stay late to make sure to connect and thank them for coming to our shows. And our shows will also include some fun audience pawticipation. Sometimes we do stuff like a group howl or barking session, you know fun stuff.
What role does inclusivity play in your music and performances?
A: It plays a vital role. When we release music, we want the lyrics to speak to the human experience. We select songs based on this. We write our lyrics based on this. We write and find remixes that we feel have strong messages of social inclusivity and make sure to use them in our live sets. We don’t just pick songs because we think they are “cool.” We carefully curate the Groove Fiesta to speak and inspire the soul of the listener, whether that be us performing live or in our songs worldwide.
How do you balance the demands of international touring with personal life?
A: It can be really crazy at times. So much work all day everyday. My Pawdner Rizla travels with us almost everywhere. When we travel, her and I make sure to work in time to have fun and do something in the cities we travel to. It doesn’t happen every time, but quite often we figure out a way to do something non-music related on the road to keep things fun and not just about music.
Also, while at home, we make sure to try and spend as much time as we can with our Chihuahua, friends, and families. Rizla and I also work really hard on maintaining a routine as a team, and we find that really helps us stay balanced in our very busy lives.
Rizla and I both have work we do entirely remotely while touring as well, so we can help offset touring costs with other sources of income. We worked hard to find all of these avenues to make all of this traveling work. Is it a grind? Totally! However, being in control of our lives and where we go and all of these amazing experiences we have had make all the extra efforts worth it. It keeps us inspired and it’s amazing that we keep getting these opportunities to keep the touring going.
We also love to spend time in nature and take small trips to recharge regularly. And we have a date once a week (unless we physically are not in the same place) to keep our personal lives alive and well. It’s crazy a schedule, but we see committed as a team to making it work and so far so good! And we have been pretty steady touring for the last 2 years.
Can you share how your experience at Friendzy Fest 2023 impacted your career?
A: Friendzy Fest was truly an amazing experience. It was the first time we got play a larger international festival in a proper night time slot. It was a surreal moment as we were on the main stage bringing our Groove Fiesta alongside some heavy hitters and artists that we admire and look up to.
And we were so well received. It really gave us the confidence that we can play alongside anyone, anywhere and hold our own with the big dogs doing it our way. It also really pushed us to believe further that we are definitely not just performing to fit in. It showed us that we really had our show and our vibe at festival level. And we couldn’t be more pumped about that thought as we move forward in 2024 and beyond.
What has been the most unexpected source of inspiration for your music?
A: On the 4th of July in 2015, I found a little white dog underneath a truck on the I-10 and 16th St off ramp in downtown Phoenix. I saw some movement underneath the truck and I thought to myself, “Is that a dog?”
She immediately came over to us and basically asked to be picked up. Her with sweet little eyes seemed so desperate when I walked over to her in the crosswalk. We took her with us and took her in.
The name CHKLZ (pronounced Chuckles) was born from our little white dog Charlie. We called here “Chuckles” as a nickname because she was a little girl “Chuck” just wasn’t going to stick.
She quickly became an instant source of inspiration one night sitting in my living. Our entire theme and language is “Doggies!” And it’s because of her. LeMarshawn Jean suggested we spell it this way to be different and stand out. And what a great decision that was looking back today.
That dog changed my life and existence. Prior to having Charlie in my life, I can confidently say I wasn’t in the best spot in my own existence. The dog forced me to change my ways and increased my focus. It really is a “who rescued who” situation. I think without that chance encounter with that little dog, my life might be very different and I thank higher beings every day that we were able to connect. She changed my life.
And because of her, we found new approaches and new inspirations for music that I have been trying to compose since the early 2000s. And even though we had to say goodbye to her in October 2022, she still remains our muse and her spirit will live on with us forever. There would be no “Whaddup Doggies!” without her. She is our brand!
What has been your strategy for growing your audience without an agent?
A: Network, network, and network some more. I (DJ iLL Choppo) do so much digging for shows and new opportunities for us. I also keep spreadsheets for shows to keep order. And now that we are few years deeper into our project, better shows are coming along. However, I really believe that is because of the relationships we have cultivated over the years through effort and dedication.
How do you keep your shows fresh and engaging for repeat attendees?
A: We are always doing new things on the fly with our live elements. No two shows are ever the same. We are also constantly finishing new music and adding it to our live shows. We have even finished tracks for shows less than an before showtime before and decided to add them for that night. And we really love taking chances to keep things interesting for both us and all of our attendees.