by July is passing us by and that means it’s time for a fresh installment of Focus Five. As always we’ve got a diverse offering for you to explore. Our 42nd edition features a new trap heavy-hitter, an artist wowing us with fresh flips, a double dose of DnB, and a British producer who “writes songs to make you feel like nothing really matters.” What more could you ask for? Dive in below.
Bon-Psy
Your favourite artist’s favourite artist could probably be your favourite artist, too. Something that I’ve learned over the years is that the influence and inspiration that drives great artists usually come from like-minded individuals or groups that push boundaries in a similar fashion. Now, I’m not saying that Bon-Psy is David Gotham‘s favourite artist, but it surely means something to bring on the UK-based producer as the sole remixer of his debut single. After being introduced to Bon-Psy through his remix of ‘Enter, The Hole Divine (Part I),’ a quick dive into his brief yet impressive discography revealed a fresh approach to production that reminds me of a crossover between Rome in Silver and music one would hear on Inspected. It’s equally groovy as it is complex, with combinations of electronic and acoustic elements often coming together to create rich, emotional soundscapes. Being consistently unique is not easy, but Bon-Psy has got it on lock.
-SC
CAB
Hailing from San Marcos, Texas, an upcoming and dangerous weapon is taking the spotlight with every release. And discovering his art has been a stroke of pure destiny for us. We’re proud to introduce the icon in the making, CAB. A heavy-hitter you do not want to sleep on.
Powerful sound design, nasty drum creations, you name it! This artist knows no boundaries when manipulating the spectrum. His grasp and shining touch on the trap movement is truly like no other. Separating his creative world from the rest. And standing out as one of the most intricate and unique creators to date. CAB has appeared on a couple of labels so far such as Wicked Records and Gridlock Records! Both tracks are simply astounding and will have your jaw dropped the entire time. And his newest piece, ‘RAVEx’ dropped not too long ago and pays homage to the next step for the trap environment. Integrating some of the finest techniques used for electronic music. So go make sure to support this everlasting spirit, because he’s got some very interesting works of art coming in the future!
-JD
Simon Sez
I have a confession. Up until a few weeks ago, I was sleeping on Simen Sez. I don’t know why, but I can assure that ‘Una Cerveza – RIP’ woke me up. The soulful, infectious and breezy remix of MF Doom’s ‘One Beer’ is an expertly tasteful homage to the late legend. It’s a warm-weather party starter that’s understated but impeccable. Needless to say the flip left me thirsty for more bops from the Milwaukee-based producer. If you’re in the mood for flips too, ‘Gusto (Hot Wind Blows Remix)’ and ‘Peaches (Afro Remix)’ are sure to satisfy your needs. Looking for more grooves? The Jaca Beats assisted ‘Eu to Correndo’ mixes house and Baile for a fresh vibe that’ll get you moving. Given that 3 of the 4 tracks mentioned dropped in the span of a month it’s safe to Simen Sez is one to watch.
-C
YAANO
I’m really going deep down the D&B hole this year. Not that I wasn’t already listening enough drum & bass before, but thanks to some fresh names that we all know very well (Rohaan, gyrofield, IMANU, Tom Finster) I’ve approached the genre from a completely different perspective and it feels like I went back to the days I was a rookie in the scene. With every track I find it’s surprise after surprise that brings back a feeling of playfulness and extreme curiosity that had faded a little. YAANO was one of the last names I discovered during my SoundCloud explorations. In spite of all those who comment “where’s the real dnb?”, YAANO churns out quality drum & bass, ranging back and forth between the many shades of the genre but never losing his touch. From his debut appearance on Overview via the Zone 2 compilation to the gem of the Blossom EP and after there’s just quality work all around!
-AA
YOSHUU
It’s about time for another one of my bets! So far I’m quite sure I didn’t fail a single one, (you can check previous volumes of Focus Five here to prove me wrong) and I’m strongly convinced this one will be no exception. Those you see below are the only two public releases on YOSHUU‘s profiles but they speak loud of the potential of this Romanian producer who I’m sure will make important moves in the future. His sound might not share the same crazy inventiveness of other generational champions yet, but it’s built on the same contemporary approach to drum & bass of which I’m a huge fan of. Given that they released both these two tracks, it’s fair to say DIVIDID’s team is a huge fan too, which is an endorsement that can’t go unnoticed. However, as professional music nerds, you should accept suggestions but also make up your mind by yourself. So don’t wait any longer and dive into YOSHUU’s music right here.
-AA
Words by Alessio, Colin, John and Steph.
