by London duo Chase & Status define iconic in the arena of bass music. The veteran artists have been trailblazing their unique path for two decades, constantly evolving while pushing new boundaries. Their latest offering 2 Ruff, Vol. 1 sees them continuing that path over 10 exceptional tracks that fuse DnB, grime, UK Rap, bass, and beyond.
Billed as a mixtape, the new album is all hits no misses, taking listeners into a sweaty basement rave in the heart of the UK. It’s dark, gritty, relentless, and exceptional. It features anthemic cuts like ‘Baddadan’ (feat. IRAH, Flowdan, Trigga & Takura), the Stefflon Don-assisted ‘Selecta,’ and ‘Liquor & Cigarettes’ with Hedex & Ardee. The inventive yet menacing heaters ‘Tough Talk’ (feat. Kwengface) and ‘On The Block’ (feat. Sav’O & Horrid1) offer a fresh feel while remaining raw. ‘Massive & Crew,’ ‘Get Got,’ and the project’s title track with Takura work as DJ weapons or asstandalone singles. Elsewhere, ‘Say The Word’ alongside Clementine Douglas offers a moving reprieve that’s teeming with emotion while still remaining at home on any dance floor.
From start to finish 2 RUFF, Vol. 1 is an enthralling DnB-driven ride that’s riddled with stellar features, brutish bass, and raze-sharp sound design. The project is proof of why the duo are living legends. Dive in below and be sure to check out their recent Boiler Room set which has been setting the internet ablaze.
