- There's a wave of new producers trying their hand at lo-fi broken-beat tracks, but there's always been an undeniable quality to DJ Slyngshot. Following an appearance on a Secretsundaze compilation last year, the New Era EP is the first release by the German producer on his YAPPIN label since 2016. The EP's title track is a comforting mix of jazzy keys, boomy drums and record scratches, which combine for a nostalgic piece of instrumental hip-hop. It contrasts with the buoyant moods found elsewhere on the release. The aptly named "OF XTC (Action Mix)" springs to life with warm chords and a euphoric vocal that sits above of a driving breakbeat. The "Understatement Mix" of "OF XTC" is for more acquired tastes, eschewing the drama for trippier percussion and a wonky synth that splutters throughout the track.
Not so polarising is "Stop Playin' Part I," which sounds like a darker reimagining of Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock's 1988 hit "It Takes Two." Foreboding warbles open the track, leading into a jacking drum break and an who MC urges us to "bring it back down." Later, the track stutters with a wave of bass in the breakdown. It turns out to be really good fun, and a prime example of why DJ Slyngshot continues to attract curiosity—even when there are others of his ilk.
TracklistA1 New Era
A2 OF XTC (Action Mix)
B1 OF XTC (Understatement Mix)
B2 Stop Playin' Part I