June: 6 bass & club tunes you need to hear this month

False Witness 'The Art Of Fighting' (GHE20G0TH1K)

Before even listening to False Witness’ new ‘The Art Of Fighting’ EP, we were struck by its cover art. A swirl of pinks and blues melts against a black background, flowing every which way. The viscous substance asserts itself, making you sit up and look a little bit closer. Like its corresponding visual aspect, the Brooklyn-based producer and DJ’s music draws you in slowly, and then wholly envelops you: on ‘Panic Room (To Lose One’s Nerve)’ featuting Kala, for example, Twilight Zone-esque synth tones echo, and suddenly the bassline is racing along steadily while someone gasps on the track. ‘Perfect Attack’ is just that, featuring jagged melodic lines and fast-paced drops, while ‘Revolt’ rolls and propels the EP forward with its determined energy. Released on Venus X’s legendary GHE20G0TH1K label, the #KUNQ collective member affirms that despite venue closures and laws that target marginalised communities, New York’s club spaces aren’t going anywhere. The hardness found in ‘The Art Of Fighting’ differs from a lot of abrasive-sounding music out there today; this is frenzied but focused, and there’s a desperate passion to the pounding kicks that lets you know exactly how high the stakes are. It’s very personal, and a clear sonic refusal to back down.

8/10