RedazioneMonotone’s latest release, Call Your Friends, is a bold statement in contemporary electronic music, offering an invigorating blend of breakbeat, drum’n’bass, dubstep, and future house. Crafted by Francesco Presotto and Kimi Recor under their new live electronic project, G.DUBS01, the EP pushes sonic boundaries while maintaining a strong connection to the rhythmic heart of bass music. Known individually for their work as EX.HALE and SCHNALLO, the duo merges their unique sensibilities to deliver a record that feels both innovative and authentic.
The opening track, “Echoes,” sets the tone with dark, atmospheric soundscapes that envelop the listener. The track’s intricate IDM-inspired drum’n’bass rhythms weave through a pulsating bassline, creating a rich and textured listening experience. The attention to detail in the percussive elements is astounding, with every hit and shuffle contributing to the track’s immersive energy. The synth work is equally compelling, alternating between haunting melodies and dissonant stabs that heighten the tension.
“H.E.X.,” the second track, delves deeper into experimental territory. The bass-heavy groove anchors the track, but it’s the halftime shifts that truly stand out, creating moments of unexpected dynamism. The interplay between raw, underground energy and ethereal, almost otherworldly sound design is masterful. Layers of distorted synths and glitchy textures give “H.E.X.” a visceral quality, while the precise production ensures that no element feels out of place. This track exemplifies Monotone’s ability to balance chaos and control, delivering a soundscape that’s as thrilling as it is unsettling.
The final track, “PAN,” is arguably the most future-forward piece on the EP. It combines dubstep’s weighty low-end with the melodic sensibilities of future house, resulting in a track that’s both dancefloor-ready and emotionally resonant. The bassline’s depth is matched by its fluidity, shifting seamlessly between gritty textures and smooth, rolling waves. The synths take a brighter turn here, introducing an uplifting energy that contrasts beautifully with the EP’s darker moments. It’s a fitting conclusion to an EP that thrives on duality and contrast.
One of the most impressive aspects of Call Your Friends is its ability to blend disparate influences into a cohesive whole. Monotone doesn’t merely borrow from breakbeat, drum’n’bass, dubstep, and future house; they reimagine these genres, infusing them with a fresh perspective. The result is an EP that feels like a natural evolution of bass music, unafraid to explore uncharted territory.
The production quality is top-notch throughout, with every element meticulously crafted to create an immersive experience. Whether it’s the crisp percussion, the enveloping basslines, or the innovative synth work, each track offers something new to discover with repeated listens. The EP’s dark, atmospheric undertones are balanced by moments of light and melody, creating an emotional depth that’s rare in the genre.
Call Your Friends has already garnered support from industry heavyweights like Laurent Garnier, Rob Hall, and Modeselektor, and it’s easy to see why. This is an EP that demands attention, not just for its technical prowess but for its ability to evoke a visceral, almost primal response. Monotone has delivered a record that’s as forward-thinking as it is grounded, making Call Your Friends a must-listen for fans of cutting-edge electronic music.
In conclusion, Call Your Friends is a triumph for Monotone and a testament to the duo’s talent and vision. By seamlessly blending dark, experimental soundscapes with the rhythmic intensity of bass music, they’ve created an EP that’s both challenging and accessible. This is a release that deserves a place in any electronic music enthusiast’s collection.
