Working diligently under his Tokyo Prose moniker, London-based New Zealander Sam Reed has carved out his sound in the world of drum ‘n’ bass that’s resonating with fans and genre icons like Friction, London Elektricity and Lenzman.
Formed originally as a duo, Reed took the reigns and has gone full steam ahead on his own, releasing music on three Samurai Music Group labels, as well as Hospital Records and Sun & Bass Recordings. It’s all set the stage for his full-length debut, Presence, due in early August on the aforementioned Samurai label.
Having just teased us with the Presence LP sampler, brandishing the gorgeous “Waiting On” feat. Riya and “Ventura,” there’s little doubt that Reed’s, erm, presence will soar in the immediate future.
Hailing from a country whose music scene is chock full of talent, we asked the Auckland native to share some of the NZ music he’s feeling at the moment.
Tokyo Prose’s Presence is released on August 4 on Samurai Music Group.
1. Fis
A truly unique producer with an off-kilter but instinctive sound. His music ranges from unexpected bliss to the deeply unsettling.
Start with: “DMT Usher” and Deptford Goth’s “Guts No Glory” (Fis Remix)
2. Consequence
A Kiwi producer who was at the heart of the Autonomic movement. Beautiful synth arrangements and future beats.
Start with: “Lover’s Shell” and “A Man and a Woman”
3. Christoph El Truento
One of NZ’s finest and most exciting beat makers. On a constant cycle of reinvention, he is one of the most interesting producers you’ll find. With every new track he completely changes the way you look at music.
Start with: “Sunflower” and “One Day Your Heroes Will Fall Over”
4. Connan Mockasin
I guess you could call it psychedelic pop but it really doesn’t matter. It’s just fantastic music. Connan is a firm favorite with Peanut Butter Wolf, Gas Lamp Killer, etc.
Start with: “I’m the Man That Will Find You” and “It’s Choade My Dear”
5. Lord Echo
His music starts at the dub end of the spectrum and works it way all the way to modern jazz. His songs with The Elder Statesmen are some of my favorites this year.
Start with: “Thinking of You,” “Wang East” and The Elder Statesmen’s “Montreux Sunrise”
6. Recloose
NZ via Detroit. Really love his house productions, and he’s a fantastic DJ to boot.
Start with: “UHF” and “Cardiology” (Isolee Mix)
7. Electric Wire Hustle
An amazing three-piece group. Favorites with Gilles Peterson, Benji B, etc.
Start with: They Don’t Want and Waters
8. Chaos in the CBD
Two brothers who have now relocated to London and are writing some great house music.
Start with: “Dusty Sundays” and “78 to Stanley Bay”
9. Home Brew
Their debut self-titled album is easily the best thing to happen to NZ hip-hop in years. Two CDs of brilliance. Tom Scott, Lui Gumaka and Haz Beats can do no wrong. Also check @peace.
Start with: “State of Mind and “Fungi/Absense”
10. Parallel Dance Ensemble
Coco Solid and Robin Hannibal. “Shopping Cart” is an anthem!
Start with: Shopping Cart
11. Julien Dyne
Another Kiwi producer/musician on the soulful tip. A fantastic drummer so watch for the percussion on his tracks.
Start with: “Layer” and “Falling Down”