- Rollage Vol. 2: Keysound Sessions Anthem, which comprises four variations of the same track, is a rare solo record from Blackdown, who usually produces with his Keysound Recordings co-founder, Dusk. The original centers on a deconstructed grime beat, with a barrage of pinging lasers in place of drums and melodies. Blackdown works in a muffled cellphone recording of London MC Riko Dan toasting on the mic at a Keysound Sessions club night, which he uses as the track's hook. There are plenty of fresh ideas that fly in the face of conventional genre tropes, but the track doesn't click on a visceral level.
The "Techrollage Mix" lands closer to the bullseye. It channels the original's unorthodox spirit, with unquantized beats and blasts of sci-fi effects. It will still confuse most dancers, but that's the price of experimentation. The "8bar Mix" is the most functional version, and will likely make a serious dent in the dance floor. The bare-bones arrangement recalls early '00s UK garage (Artwork's Red EP in particular), though the textures feel more modern. Then there's a beatless version, where Blackdown's knack for sound design shines through—especially in the sub-bass, which ripples through the mix with intimidating force.
TracklistA1 Keysound Sessions Anthem (Feverish Weightless)
A2 Keysound Sessions Anthem (Techrollage Mix)
B1 Keysound Sessions Anthem
B2 Keysound Sessions Anthem (8bar Mix)