Shapeshifter - SSXUB EP Review - Shapeshifter vs The Upbeats
This 5 track EP has been probably my most highly anticipated NZ release this year and it doesn't disappoint. This is everything that you would expect from this collaboration, the soulful wailing of P-Digsss and melodic lusciousness of Shapeshifter mashed together with the unforgiving, beat driven groove of The Upbeats.
The EP comes as a result of The Upbeats production role on Shapies Delta record last year. The two groups decided they wanted to write a record that didn't feature one act in particular but wanted to see what a straight colab would produce.
"It's an amalgamation of the two groups, where we are known for live [music], having these guys on board has given us a bit of grunt, we needed a bit of inspiration. These guys are really pushing the level." - P-Digsss.
The collaborators favourite track is Little by Little, which is the most cohesive collaboration of the two acts, but mine is the opening tune Bloodstream. Bloodstream mashes the smashing, pulsing Upbeats riddim, with the silky smooth voice of P-Digsss. These two juxtaposing flavors compliment perfectly.
All n All, I really enjoyed this record. It's a brave new step for two acts to jump together and co-release an entire EP, and it's this approach that I feel will help keep kiwi music vital and buoyant. I hope to see a part two to this EP and more collaborations from kiwi electronic artists in the future.
About Shapeshifter
These are just some of Shapeshifter’s towering achievements.
The five-strong lineup of PDigsss (vocals), Sam Trevethick (guitar/synths/sampler), Dan McGruer (synths/sampler), Nick Robinson (bass/synths) and Darren Mathiassen (drums) have created their very own heavy soul; a stadium-sized sound which adds layers of drum & bass, jazz, funk, rock and electronica to solid bass culture foundations.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Shapeshifter
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