Description
DAV016
Dubs Alive Records (DAV) stepped onto the scene in 2008 looking for a sound that not only resonated with DJ’s who were currently spreading the burgeoning US Dubstep sound, but also spoke to those whose mindset was oriented more toward the Dubwise. Serving as a conduit for those who may not normally appreciate electronic music, DAV strives to find common ground between the electronic and analog through an abundant presence of live, instrument driven melodic and harmonic elements. As an early champion of Dubstep featuring live performances and instrumentation, Dubs Alive Records has consistently been willing to go against the grain, releasing strong musical statements built to stand the test of time.
Now as the label wraps its most diverse and prolific year to date, DAV is happy to present a fresh compilation of the most Dub Reggae influenced music from their catalog. Including some of their biggest selling tunes, this new collection speaks volumes to the musically rich, instrument laced Future Dub sound which Dubs Alive Records has forged for itself since day one. Showcasing top quality artists such as Djunya, Roommate, Bukkha, and DZ, this collection attests to the true Roots Dub tradition DAV seems to find everywhere they look. Chilled out superb production, classic yet forward thinking Roots melodies and waves of subby bass weight (in some cases actual live bass guitar) underscore that this compilation is for the soul. A meditation on the past and future of Dub Music, Dubs Alive Records contrasts the essence of laid back smokey days on the beach and long dark sweaty nights with “Head Roots – Volume One.”
In a true dub stylee, Krytikal has put together a hot as fire remix of “Summon.” Heavy sampling of the original percussion incorporated with abounding reverbs, dancehall siren, and melodica, this remix presents an organically dubbed version of the title track. Deftly riding the fine line between Roots and Bass Music, this tune provides the classic Reggae Dubstep vibes intended strictly for the Most High.
Production guru duo Earth is Flat have created an entire universe to explore in their remix of “Fiyah feat. Stegafegan.” A deep journey of variations on a theme with layers of hyper-experimentation through bit crushed glitches, this tune sonically speaks to auditory aficionados of the entire frequency spectrum. With a minimal rolling sub bass alongside crisp drums and dubbed percussion, all radiating filtered white noise, this remix pulls you into an encapsulating sonic mindspace on the techy side of Dub that you won’t soon escape.
Rounding out “Summon EP,” the Noah D Remix of “Interrupt” reinterprets the original tune into a blazing, sexy and brashly American sub smasher. This Smog Records badman effortlessly juxtaposes Goosensei’s UK, percussion driven dubwise style with characteristics designed to satiate the LA Bass Music community. The remix rolls hard with a classic Noah D sub line reminiscent of his Drum ‘N’ Bass roots mixed with his gangster sensibilities. Goosensei’s original productions contrast the remixes, clearly displaying the wide breadth of influence Dub has had in Electronic Music and validating the strength and longevity of the future of Bass Music.