2016 has proven to be a pivotal moment in Zeds Dead’s career. The Canadian duo dropped their debut full length studio album Northern Lights last month, a diverse fifteen track LP that saw them evolving their sound with plenty of genre exploration. In addition to releasing what will likely be considered one of the best electronic albums of the year, they’ve also launched their new imprint Deadbeats, and now we have the label’s debut EP in the form of Nebbra‘s four track collection You.
The You EP opens with the title track, a smooth future bass turned pop effort with vocals courtesy of Mike Sabath. Featuring stop-start rhythms, heady synth work and a captivating future bass production, the tune serves as a fitting lead for the collection. Up next is “Fire Away” featuring Oktavian, an ominous trap cut with airy synth chords and powerful sub bass, elevated by some unique hip hop inspired drops that bring a funky edge to the track.
Continuing on with “Gladiator,” Nebbra crafts a wonky trap banger complete with world influenced melodies, skittering chord rhythms and snaking synth leads layered over 808 beats. The four track release comes to a close with “On The Moon,” a loungey future bass number with bouncy synths, R&B vibes and upbeat drum patterns.
On his new EP, Nebbra strikes a balance between boundary pushing productions and in-vogue dancefloor material. Each track has something unique to offer up, making the You EP both a solid listen and a worthy debut for Deadbeats.