Music / Bass
Review: Woz, Grains and Celsius
There is no doubt that Woz can be considered one of the most creative House/Bass producers in the underground UK scene. Four years ago, his Zylo EP showcased the unique technicality of his producing skills, with intricate yet jittery melodies layered over a drum kit pattern which seemed heavily influenced from Bristol’s raging D&B scene. With his first vinyl release on Redlight’s imprint Lobster Boy Records, Woz is gradually asserting himself as a Techno producer with a release going a step further to break his mould.
The track on the first side, Grains, starts with a thin Hi-Hat pattern with other layers brought in gradually. What I admire most is how Woz seamlessly builds new layers to his music, almost as if they were synthesised from the sounds already present. Woz stresses his new Techno sound by using heavily distorted kicks and spontaneous melodic trinkets which gives it an industrial quality. The male voice sample ‘I think I’ve always wanted to go against that grain’ creates a vacuum which the drop dispels, breaking out into an almost Atlanta induced kick and snare drum rhythm. You could almost forget the track is a Woz production until electronic discharges are shot simultaneously with the kicks, along with female vocal sample which re-affirm the artist’s style.
Celsius, the track on the flip side, is Techno down to the core. Woz’s previous collaboration with Troy Gunner have resulted in tracks which appeal to the hard-hitting Techno enthusiast. Woz extends on this style, with Bongo drums providing the backdrop for a strict 4 to the floor beat to march on. Hissing Hi-hats and syncopated metallic chords gradually turn into a swirl in which you can easily find yourself lost within. However, what I most appreciate about this track is the second part where quick firing kicks progressively increase in pitch, along with the singer who is in a state of unparalleled euphoria, giving the record an amazing climax.
is needed now More than ever
For those who know Woz’s material, this release goes against his trademark deep house/bass sound. This release signposts a move to a new genre, with the same abundance of sonic flair and feet itching spur. As part of the opening of the SWU.FM radio station, Woz is performing at the station’s takeover at Motion on Sunday, April 16. Be sure not to miss this unique event, celebrating Bristol’s iconic underground music scene.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teC_Tv40Weg
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