Artist Feature #5 - Seven Lions x Lexo

Over the past few months, I’ve been waiting on a release project from a Santa Barbara-area native, and one of the few talented producers in our coastal paradise. In these technologically innovative times we live in, it’s clear that everyone wants to be a DJ. In a 21+ college and beach town like SB, they are everywhere. Producers on the other-hand, despite the rapid tech advancements in this field as well, still requires long studio work, high expense, and of course, an abundance of artistic creativity in order to break through to new listeners effectively. Quality productions seem especially hard to come by in Santa Barbara, where just an hour down the way is the megalopolis of Los Angeles, I've seen to too many 805 talents breakout, then bitter-sweetly --and with best wishes-- watch as they depart for better opportunities. But as the city gains a wider EDM scene in general, the producers have steady been churning out. Last month I posted my fourth artist feature profiling Toro 43’s debut release, the purple-electric "Lavanda Summa" EP which you can check out and download, here. Now again it’s my pleasure to bring you top quality production from another Santa Barbaraian, Seven Lions.

I had been hyped on this release for a multiple reasons. First, Seven Lions is the new pseudonym for progressive-house Producer/DJ Jeff Montalvo's dark-side, who has been consistently rising in notoriety. He released his first EP last year, a 5 track effort entitled "Movement", available on Beatport via Elliptical Recordings. This progression reached a climax when DJ Tiesto gave radio-play to his track, “Under Pressure”. Any release from Jeff Montalvo is something to track down. With a disciplined drive and high standard for quality music, the output is always a listening pleasure. Secondly, as mentioned, Seven Lions is the alternate identity for the heavier, bass-oriented side of Jeff Montalvo. Before entrenching himself in the world of EDM, Jeff was originally a metal head as a yout. As the transgression of American dubstep came sweeping through, it was only a matter of time until metal lovers found common ground.

This is no surprise since dubstep treats the genres before it like a harem, developing strong relationships with eclectic influences. Such crossbreeding has occurred regularly in dubstep with hip-hop, DnB, dub-reggae, electro-house and the west-coast beat-scene. The first time I heard Jeff Montalvo’s dubstep was upon our introduction, after Professor West had dropped a dubplate of his at a Santa Babylon show last year. At the time, Montalvo was still experimenting with the sound, having made a remix series of sampled metal tunes into dubstep. His EDM productions, which tend to be house or trance with a progressive flare, may seem at odds with the heavier, raved-out dubstep sound... but to Montalvo, it was really no long ting. Lastly, I was looking forward to the upcoming release because he had relayed to me that it would feature a partnership with a south-coast rapper, as well as a few other vocalists.

That rapper was Lexo the Great. Although currently residing in the LBC, Lexo is also from north-county Santa Barbara area. The 805 has always played an integral role in his musical and personal development, so I was pleased to hear the collaboration would feature another 805 loke. Similar to Montalvo, the last couple years have been precipitous of big things for Lexo the Great. In 2010 he released a respectable 4 mixtapes on top of a street album, dropping several videos along the way. In 2011 he performed with rock-reggae sensation Iration on their So-Cal Tour and SXSW. This momentum culminated into Lexo releasing his latest single “Another Day” feat. Iration, which is available on iTunes, here. Continuing in positive fashion, Lexo is making massive steps on his new album, working with reggae icon and Grammy Award winning producer, Native Wayne Jobson. I was just recently booked alongside Lexo in Malibu this past month and got to see him live. With a genuine character and vivacious stage presence, it solidified Lexo the Great as a charismatic performer in addition to a recording artist. And I look forward to rocking mics with him again, this time in Santa Barbara on August 12^th @ Statemynt Lounge.

805 pride aside, in actuality this release will get play well beyond city limits. The "Keep It Dirty" EP stays true to the name, with Seven Lions' production work going into serious head-banging wobble frequencies alongside Lexo’s party rocking bars which are always on point, and keep the dance-floor moving. In dubstep, the vast amounts of hip-hop vocals (original or remixed) in the scene these days, I like it when a producer doesn’t go over the top by layering vocals all over the mid-ranged drops. Instead, Lexo’s vocals work in tandem with the track’s drops, hyping up long beat-laden intros, or breaking out on the breaks before Seven Lions sets it off again with the second drop. Seven Lions, as a classically trained practitioner, puts a high emphasis on melodies. As such, he generally doesn’t find synchronicity working with rappers for this reason, and typically prefers sung-vocals to work with... or nothing at all. With this format and chemistry on the “Keep It Dirty” release, Seven Lions’ arranges the tunes to be consistent quality, while maintaining unpredictability throughout the entire tracks. This is especially evident on the one track I wasn’t granted a dubplate for, and happened to be my top rated on the EP.

The tune, entitled “Back Down” was last to be recorded due to a feature from Michael Peuschel of Iration. Lexo licks off two dope 16s between drops that both build-up & breakdown like a warning alarm for incoming bass bombs. Then following the third verse section comes Peuschel’s thirty-second instrumental guitar solo. The track not only maintains a heavy production, but also manages to do so while echoing hip-hop, to “brostep”, to rock/reggae styles all at once. In the multifaceted evolution of dubstep, ‘progressive’ is almost a non-use word in this rapid changing and dynamic sonic environment, but with Seven Lions, it’s certainly applicable. His ability to encapsulate these different aspects of dubstep’s hyper-evolutionary character into a single amalgamation, showcases his innovative production styles. Further adding to a maintained interest throughout, the duo brings in relief features such as the aforementioned Peuschel, the lovely Sarah Clark, and one of Lexo’s mandem, Fedie Demarco, who features on the bonus track; a Watts remix of the EP’s stomper riddim, “Fully Loaded”. Best of all, as it's Seven Lions' debut release, the decision was made by both artists to release this top-notch product for FREE. So the next time you hear the name, you’ll know what’s up!! Grab the EP for free via Seven Lion’s SoundCloud, or directly down below. And don't forget to get that sick cover art by graphic artist Cliff Nelson, who also did the art for Montalvo's Movement EP.

And an EP release wouldn’t be proper without a party, right? And sure enough Seven Lion’s and Lexo will be lighting up the sound system at Statemynt Lounge on August 12^th, for the Keep It Dirty Release Party. This is going to be a rager, with an ace line-up of mixed-genre EDM. In addition to Seven Lion’s headline act, the night will include sets from DJ's Rene (Underground Souls), 9FTOFSMOKE (BluntBros.FM), as well as Zander, a wicked glitch-bass Producer/DJ who is also collaborating with Lexo. Just got word that they will be showcasing an unreleased tune at the show! Come in early and celebrate the summer with us, as well as this massive release of bass-weighted pressure. Support your local talent. Again, download the EP below, for free, and check out www.jeffmontalovo.com and LexotheGreat.com for future updates and material. P.E.A.C.E.

Lexo and Seven Lions - Keep It Dirty (Free Release) by Seven Lions

9FeetOfSmoke - Fumarbahton (Mix)

(© EOS Lounge, Santa Barbara)

"Moombah, Moombah, do-ba-dee-doo... 9FeetOfSmoke back to Moombah you."

Last year 805 DJ/Producer 9FeetOfSmoke began experimenting with Moombahton, while people still had no clue as to what it was. Playing it out at Santa Barbara’s clubs to mild reception, could it be that the dubstep selector/producer was simply onto something too soon? Yes, nearly as simplistic as David Nada playing Afro Jax at half-speed and pioneering a genre out of it. For those who aren’t familiar, Moombahton originated at a high-school ditch party in 2009 by Dave Nada, who then advanced the slowed-down Dutch House style that is now Moombahton and continuing to spread virally. A few weeks back, DJ Mackle appeared on 9Ft.’s radio show, “BluntBros.FM”, and transitioned from some dubstep tunes into a Joker moombahton remix. When the BluntBros forum was eating the sound up, its was no surprise 9Ft. would begin rethinking Moombahton’s appeal nearly a year later. Recently, L.A.’s Relentless Audio label-mates, Direct Feed and Rob Bliss, have begun pushing Moombahton as well. With the dubstep community now taking notice of the sound’s slow, dance-floor appeal, the limits of Moombahton are still not yet visible. Speaking of Direct Feed, he is having a remix-contest for Chromeo’s “Hot Mess”, and it’s a wicked Moombahton production too. So go to beatportal, spin it, then vote it up in the contest, here.

(© EOS Lounge, Santa Barbara) (© DFHY)

Taking another shot at this fresh house music, last week 9FeetOfSmoke dropped a new mix hot of the decks, featured below. He’s also experimented with some Moombahton productions and is looking to demo more of his dubstep tunes in the coming months. Check the prods on his soundcloud. On his show, he spins everything from Metal to Moombahton, and Dubstep to Kenny G. His radio show put on alongside his blunt brothers, Rtrd and Badmin, every Tuesday from 7-10PM PST, on iPhone or via BluntBros.FM You can also catch him playing with Santa Babylon shows on the regular, including “Bass For Boobs” in Santa Maria on April 15th, “Santa Babylon Soundsystem” @ Tonic on April 27th, and “I Love L.A.” on April 17th at The Airliner, LA. Further, the BluntBros radio show, will feature a special 4-20 smoke out broadcast with a mash-up of genres by past guests and talented Santa Barbara selectas, with plenty of blunts to go around. Tune in and smoke out. P.E.A.C.E.

Fumarbahton by 9FEETOFSMOKE

Santa Babylon Spring Roll Call

(© HighBird Productions).

Spring is now blooming, and into 2011 Santa Babylon continues ‘booming’ in reciprocity. Since solidifying a firm standing in Santa Barbara through 2010, the clique has broadened their regional scope toward our passion for all types of bass music. Situated on a periphery to LA, 2010 saw Santa Babylon infiltrate heavily into State Street’s top venues, working with DJ Mackle & Sabatage’s Nightowl Brotherhood team, as well as the Jungle Juice Krew, to hold down the city. We also hosted a few nights in EOS’ goddess lounge, and last month hosting 6BLOCC at Tonic. The crew has sought to provide a balance between new listeners, adoptive because of the sound’s evolution of recent, and those who preferred skanking out to unheard sonic innovation, in dark, near-empty rooms; days now gone. For 2011 we our continuing that connection and forward momentum as we linked up with the highest rated up the central coast, while continuing to bring you big names from Los Angeles.

This Saturday, we kick off our first spring appearance alongside our bass-weight brother Danny Style, at the 2^nd annual Good Vibrations Festival. If you caught Santa Babylon’s “Whiskey Wobblers” show a couple weeks back, you’ll remember the SLO selecta shaking bottles back-bar. Hosting parties under the name “Syncopation”, Style with affiliate Dionysius, are steady building a scene up there, having made their night a staple event, which we had the pleasure of experiencing in February. Big up. And in an ill display of trans-county unity, we will be going b2b with man at HighBird Production’s “Good Vibes” at Earl Warren show-grounds.

(© HighBird Productions).

A massive 3 stage festival holding headline acts such as 6BLOCC, E-40, Ray Fresco, Passion Pit (DJ set), and LAZRTAG. SB Snaps, amongst numerous others will be covering the 6,000-capacity event. Tickets can be purchased from either their strong street team, many still offering pre-sale prices, HighBirdProductions.com, or at CRSVR’s SB storefront on State St. We looking FWD>> to rocking out for our supporters on this massive venue and system, rain or shine. (I kinda wanted to get hype in the rain, but it looks to be shine!). Outs to HighBird for the opportunity. Keep an eye on them for future events as they do it up proper. Oh, did I mention the main-stage will feature a full Funktion-1? Proper.

Following that weekend, we’ll be headed to Dubsonic where a young, but determined few, operating as P.R.I.M.3., have set up shop in Santa Maria. With a huge reception --highlighting the party-hungry atmosphere up there-- it would seem these cats are carving out a good niche in their respective locality. April 1^st, Dubsonic 2 presents Step Correct w/ that badboy Hoodzpah. Additionally, they are bringing down Lytic to rinse out the Santa Maria steppas. This one is gonna be hot.

(© P.R.1.M.3. aka P.R.I.M.E.)

DJ Lytic, alongside our Syncopation affiliates, is one of the top dubstep selectors in SLO at the moment. Lytic has had a phenominal run this past year; throwing sick parties, elevating within the central-coast DJ circuit, and similar to us in the south, facilitating the ascension of an EDM scene within his regional purview. True to rep, he is throwing a wicked party in mid-April, called “Bass for Boobs”. I must give a nod of commendation to Lytic (EltroLytic Productions), for combing a non-profit charity organization with an EDM event. (Something I’ve always wanted to do). This event is in partnership with the Keep A Breast Foundation’s “Music for Awareness” program, set for April 15th . Good intention aside, the line-up is packed solid with 2-stages of amazing talent. The event will feature nationally recognized We Bang, Lucky Date, and K-Theory. Santa Babylon crew will be in full effect, closing the night out at the bass stage.

(© KipGFX & ElectroLytic Productions).

After a busy April, we then gear up for summer, heading into the coming months preparing Santa Babylon shows throughout SB, as well as continuing up and down the south-coast. Check us at Apocalypse in May, featuring headliners Direct Feed and Rob Bliss (check this wicked mix featuring with my favorite stateside-dubstep MC). The two co-founders of the Relentless Audio label will be featuring alongside Santa Babylon crew for a night of madness. We'bve also locked down a State St. location for our next resident-event. Keep posted with the home team, and we look forward to seeing you on the dance! P.E.A.C.E.

Santa Babylon Roll Call (Confirmed Dates Only):

3/26 - Good Vibes Music Fest - 6BLOCC // E-40 // Passion Pit // +++
[Santa Babylon on Reggae/Dubstep Stage @ 3:15-4:20PM]
4/01 - DubSonic 2 - [Step Correct x MC Hoodzpah] // Lytic
4/15 - Bass for Boobs - We Bang // Lucky Date // K-Theory // +++
[Santa Babylon closing out Bass Stage at 3:00AM]
4/20 - *Blunts Up*
4/27 - Santa Babylon - 21+ Event, SB 805 [MOAR T.B.A.]
5/28 - Apocolypse - Rob Bliss // Direct Feed // [Step Correct x Chadillac x MC Hoodzpah]

Estimated Damage: A Six Block Radius

Cooking up some Chicken Tetrazzini manaña... and it's on! This Wednesday, Feb. 23^rd Santa Babylon presents 6BLOCC. Rocking heads all night, all long. Come kick off 2011 with the home team, party starts at 9. 6BLOCC aka R.A.W. is the LA originator. Personally, being granted the opportunity to spit for him is a humbling experience. For those unfamiliar, 6BLOCC is a double-droppin’ badman and unparalleled technical turnbalist. Starting out a hip-hop head in ‘85, he went on to reign supreme as R.A.W. in the US Jungle scene. He released “Ragga 2001” which became a landmark joint for the stateside sound on the global stage. His west-coast method behind the decks earned R.A.W. worldwide tours, mass exposure, and respect amongst the UK elite.

In 2006 he decided to try his hand at dubstep and reinvented himself as 6BLOCC. With dubstep still nascent in the US, in 2008 he mixed the now seminal LoDubs compilation 'ANALOG CLASH', which was the first release of bass weight bangers featuring producers in both Americas, exclusively. With output on labels such as Lo Dubs, N2O, Tribe Steppaz UK, Bootshake UK, La Dubstep Nostra, and the popular white label War Recordings, 6BLOCC will set the bar for Santa Barbara’s dubstep scene, with a bass that is felt for six blocks. Salsipuedes Riviera to Cabrillo Waterfront. Westside San Andres to Upper State. SB, can you feel it??

http://www.6blocc.com/

Troll us on Facebook: “ Santa Babylon”

Outs to our boy Akaida for the video/interview.

Also blazing out night will be your bassline bredren, Santa Babylon clique: ERS-ONE + STEP CORRECT + 9FEETOFSMOKE + MC HOODZPAH + CHADILLAC. This special Santa Babylon is a not miss... SB Steppas, step up!! Boomin' inna 6 block radius. P.E.A.C.E.

New Decade, Moar Bass

"Here's to a deep, fearless and beautiful 2011... Forward we march." Burial (via MAH)

Happy 2011 world! As seasons change and cycles start anew, we enter a new decade. What it shall bring, only jah is privy. But if the analysis of last year amounted to any indication, it’s that dubstep --and Santa Babylon along with her-- is rolling deep. First, our 2010 recap:

It’s hard to say which skyrocketed first, the 2010 brostep takeover, finally reaching into the mainstream rave scene, or rather, was it Santa Babylon’s explosion, situated in a peripheral city which is currently undergoing an EDM-slanted club-music revolution of its own. It’s clear they are definitely linked... and co-dependently. Our crew broke into a steady traction through mid-2009 at our favorite local café, Muddy Waters. Hype and anticipation would inevitably outgrow the place. A wonderful spot, but fire permit limits, wasteman extraordinaires, and SB’s growing EDM evolution forced us -blessedly- to search for a new residency in 2010. (To be honest, hippie B-Boys centered in a cipher of moshing bros, with fine artwork on the walls of a narrow café, is not a good business model either).

*To end 2010, we decided to pay homage to our beginnings by building a monument*

*Santa Babylon Bass Bins @ Muddy Waters, SB.*

Santa Babylon closed out the '09 year with "Autumn Dubfest", a two-room Dubstep~Reggae collaboration featuring Pawn and Kemst of SMOG. That momentum would propel us into uncharted territory for bass music in SB. In just this past year, the sound has come so far, being able to adapt to an expandable franchise section of Santa Barbara’s mainstream entertainment market; more so than Jungle/DnB ever managed to at least.

And so the year began... it seemed in an uncertain state after leaving MW, as we were setback by failures on two initial-venue procurements. Luckily, as last resort, Statemynt had nothing planned that night and was willing to give it a shot. Little did we know it would blow off so proper. All-crew-only line up. We were blasting filth out of bass-bins into Santa Barbara’s up-scale city-center, State Street. Though changing at the moment, the club option standard in SB remains commercial, radio music. For a Santa Babylon party, I’d often go outside to watch the puzzled, perplexed, and curious expressions of pedestrians as they passed our by our venue: Lights on low, lasers on high, and an omnipresent sub-bass that pummels unrelentingly. 2010 would feature us exploding into our own, elevating those viral-spreading excessive rave wobbles that dubstep had become. However basic the sound production and DJ selections have become --or for an unbiased neutrality; “different" than it had been-- it unabashedly still destroys at the raves. Now, one can catch global megastars, like LA’s homegrown 12^th Planet and his SMOG crew taking stage on-line ups featuring Rusko or Bassnectar at places like Coachella, as well as LA’s select, ultra "massives".

*Video-work courtesy, Akaider*
©

As a Santa Barbara's premiere bass crew, we held our 805 flag high, representing our musical talents and style, up and down the Cali coastline from San Luis Obispo multistage outdoor-undergrounds, to Los Angeles premiere dubstep events such as “I ♥ L.A."

Back home, we continued to expand beyond our residency at Statemynt, playing Tonic’s seasonal “Summer Sunday Session” as well EOS multiple times, taking dubstep head-on into direct competition with the commercial chart-toppers at SB’s primary clubs. And it wasn't easy mind you, losing some of our core-supporters who some how believed we had "sold out", when the only thing that was 'out' was our own billfolds. Then there were those typical club-goers who just weren't having it. No respect... But FWD>>we marched.

*Rins'em out each and every bassline.*

*Step Correct + Hoodzpah aka 'Each & Every'*

*Check the first WIP from Ea'N'Ery:*
Undertow - Each and Every (Step Correct & Hoodzpah collab)


We also reciprocated the inter-county connections, putting on parties with headliner acts such as: KNORSQ (SubChamber//6K), Emu + Dustmite (SMOG), APX-1 (Tonz of Drumz // GhettoLife). In addition to, Dumbsteppaz (Dubfront), Blang (Bell Ringer), Direct Feed (Jungle Riddim//Relentless Audio) and Portland boss-man, Jon A.D. (LoDubs). In addition to LA’s heavy hitters, we established strong local ties with 805 DJs Professor West, Mackle, Pursuade, Lowkey, Diamonds & Guns and SB’s wicked new talent: Chadillac.

*Video Courtesy of Dustmite*
©

We are kicking the year off correct with an all-out bass assault through January. First off, we invade Whiskey Richards alongside Chadillac. Hailing from Kansas City, man is quietly expanding his sound throughout the city in addition to icing some ink into people by day as a tattoo artist for 805 Ink.

Chadillac remains humble, yet confident in himself, exploring his new-found locality within our south-coast paradise. Pure love for his selections bleeds through speakers with original style and technical edge. You can expect big collaborations with Chadillac + Santa Babylon for 2011, as well as his solo efforts around town and all the way back to K.C. Chadillac holds a weekly dubstep night, "The Sunday Grime" @ Whiskey Richards. Our Sabylon event is this Friday, Jan. 14, 2010 and will feature Cadillac and W.R. co-resident, MI².

*"Holy shit!! Is that DJ Chadillac?!" Naa... just Jesus :( *

*Chadillac @ Santa Babylon's Halloween Special: "Night of the Living Bass" Statemynt, SB*
*DJ Chadillac @ Whiskey Richards, Sundays Weekly*

Proceeding that local-oriented event, we head back to the goddess lounge at EOS. Always exciting to play there, the venue retains a well balanced formula of elegance and class, combined with an unpretentious, carefree atmosphere that one should expect on a night out. That will take place on the 1.21.10, a week to the day of the Whiskey Dicks debut. Following that we will participate in a huge night put on by the Nightowl Brotherhood. The supreme college-night collective will bring you LowKey, Santa Babylon and APX-1 on 1.27.10. Our boy APX got a taste of Santa Barbara when we featured him in June (here), and the city surely wanted him back. Now you got it. Following January, we are off to San Luis Obispo for “Syncopation”. Put on by Danny Style and Dionysius, with sound provided by DJ Lytic's FunDip Productions. The SLO scene has been steady expanding from its nascent EDM roots which favored electro, into a more eclectic diversity now including popular dubstep, glitch and DnB events. We are looking forward to showcasing ourselves once again for the SLO steppas who always come ready to party. Keep out for Syncopation’s DJs coming down to SB to rock out in the near future too <-Big-up! *Don't forget to style up for EOS. Alongside the house slelecta, DJ Hogg, droppin' on some underground 4x4! That's 1.21.10 in the Goddess Room. Sparx holding down the front *THIS FRIDAY.*



*Santa Babylon @ Syncopation, 2.2.11* *Library Lounge, San Luis Obispo, CA*

In addition to spreading the bass virus up and down the west-coast, Santa Babylon has also turned our focus to the production-side. Both Step Correct and 9FeetofSmoke have been separately putting tracks together, and it seems 2011 will finally have their respective first releases put out. Following a summer promo video, Hoodzpah has opened some doors to collaborations with various producers, (check vid here). Aiming to make 2011 a breakout year, there also looms a possible collaboration with his British bredren, Simbad Fresh (Restoration Camp), representing Hoodzpah’s former residence in the United Kindgdom via CB-1. He has also began spinning, and will have a set on Universal Sound Stream radio soon. (TBA). 9FT has teamed up with his his DFHY brother, RTRD (formerly CityMavrick) to bring you "Blunt Bothers Radio" every Tuesday night, 6-10PM. Our crew also put out a mix featuring sets from all 3 Santa Babylon selectas! Check that mix out below. So that’s a wrap… we are all looking forward to a progressive year of bass music in the Santa Babylon crew... we hope you'll join us.

Lastly, we’d like to thank all the talent who have participated in providing Santa Barbara with quality bass music on the regular. Outs to our homeboy, DJ and videographer, Akaider. The rudeboy has been our strongest link to Los Angeles, and a true supporter of our crew from the get-go... We will certainly want you back soon, brother! In the meantime, holla at them Brazilian galdem, booom! Outs the all the talent, local or outsourced, for converging together for the simple goal of putting on a good party, and showcasing our subculture to the mass-culture. And finally, big shout out to all the SB steppas who have come out. Old-school junglists, OG dubstep massive, and all those, "never heard it in my life, but that bass drew me in" people. Without you all, it would not be possible. Big tings for 2011 so keep on the look out. All Santa Babylon 805 Bass represent! P.E.A.C.E.

Santa Babylon Roll Call:
1.14.10 - Santa Babylon hosts Whiskey Richard's, SB
1.21.10 - Santa Babylon hosts Goddess Room, EOS, SB
1.27.10 - SB Nightowl w/ Lowkey, Santa Babylon, APX-1
2.2.10 - Syncopation presents Santa Babylon, Library Lounge, SLO

*Santa Babylon Crew Mix (Chrono):*
*9FTofSmoke, Step Correct, ERS-One*

Santa Babylon 8.20.10

Rounding out the summer in raw fashion, the Santa Babylon clique is back on tricks. There's just two weeks until Black Rock City, when the physically temporary, yet soul-everlasting, metropolis is erected once again in the Nevada desert... Burning Man. So one last party for all the SB locals before the Burn was deemed necessary. Friday, August 20th @ Statemynt club, Santa Babylon presents Burning Man "Pre-Compression". With an all-city line-up of DJ's, this event will hopefully relieve the exciting angst all my Playa people are feeling as the closing countdown to the Burn comes nigh. Though I finally have the fiscal freedom to attend, Hoodzpah will not be hitting the Playa because of formal education responsibilities. Although, something dwelling within is telling me The Burn would educate a twenty-something kid exponentially more so than college ever could. Nevertheless, I feel a certain level of contentment creating a Pre-Compression event for the 805 burner massive. Since joining the Babylon crew, I've gained experience through observation and interaction on throwing parties. With this in thought, the dons of our bass team, Step Correct and ERS-One, allowed your boy Hoodzpah to take reigns and front-man this particular one-off. (Once again, bless you twos for that). Rest assured to the Babylon regulars, everything has been locked down and the usual bass-bombed chaos is sure to ensue on State Street once again. The guidance of the Step and ERS along with assistance from our lovely galdem is going to make this one poppin' party. So get that bass face engaged and ready to rage, Babylon "Pre-Compression" is gonna rock your fucking headtop. Bar none.

Three local crews collaborating with the Santa Babylon clique for this one. Underground Souls, coming off a wild, glammed-up summer, including an ridiculous July 4th event, will be represented with DJ Level. Taking you back with an all-vinyl Trip-hop and Acid Jazz, this will be a set of a certain rarity from one of SB's baddest DJs on the block. An EOS regular and underground legend, Level will have some wicked material to drop on your dome, in a form atypical to his usual club sets.


(DJ level always brings the party. All vinyl, all night, always).

Making his State club debut, Diamonds & Guns will represent the nascent burner crew The Family. True to the name they are a tight-knit group with arms wide open to those of a similar nature. Get at them at the party regarding where they will be camping at BRC. Familiar with his style, D&G will have some banger dubstep club riddims that will lay you out and keep the night progressing into madness. Talent unheard by a lot of SB locs, I guarantee the showcase with Santa Babylon by this Mexican selectah will surprise many. Be prepared for sonic assault.


(Diamonds & Guns on some beats, basslines and sunshine).

Headlining the night until the place shuts us down will be CityMavrick. Then proceeded in tandem by 9FeetOfSmoke, aka DrVktr, both soundbwoys representing D.F.H.Y. (DudeFuckingHellYeah!). D.F.H.Y. theme camp has gained a reputation on the Playa for their wicked party dome, supplying a musical range of Black Metal to Dubstep. They're camp will be located at 9:00 and Detroit and consists of Burners from all over the map. They are not too miss at this year's Metropolis on the Playa; it's a Black Rock City designated landmark insane asylum. True to fashion, CityMavrick will be dropping bombers at prime-time for "Pre-Compression". Followed up by his D.F.H.Y. blunt brother and Santa Babylon selectah 9FT to steady melt your face. Raw flesh off the skull making the dance floor slick in the darkness... tread lightly, but step hard.


(CityMavrick rocking w/ MC Kemst at S.M.O.G, LA).

Our Babylon Babes will be in full effect. This time we are taking it up a notch with six of Santa Barbara's sexiest dancers: Aya, Catalyst, Eeve, Coyote, Daisy and the illuminating Firefly. These go-go's love bass wobbles as much as us! We will have platforms set up in back area for them to demo their graceful hooping skills. Yet another attraction to inundate you throughout the night. They're hoop and poi aesthetics will also alleviate the traffic congestion on the limited Statemynt dance floor, which has gotten a bit hectic as the Santa Babylon reputation rises.


(Catalyst of Pyro Nation and straight outta Babylon).

In addition, for the first time we will be providing vendors as well. Our dancing girls, AyaPapaya and CoyotePheonix will be teaming up together to provide all the burners and fashonistas with wicked jewelry, headwear and other prime accessories to look fly on the Playa. Check out and even pre-order some of their gear on the tagged links. Nikki representing Save Rose Clothing will also provide some of her tees to sport. So don't for get that cash rules.


(Coyote's dance and design skills will be pulsating "Pre-Com").

This is sure to be an amazing night and proper send-off to all the SB burners. Chest pummeling beats will melt your face so hard, its gonna feel like Playa dust grinding your eyeballs. Don't forget to sport your desert gear! Moar Lasers. Moar Bass. MOAR LIFE. 805 represent!! Black Rock City or BUST. P.E.A.C.E.

)'(

Kulture - Steppin' Outta [Santa] Babylon

Santa Babylon 7.16.10

Summertime for the Santa Babylon clique has been rolling on by like clouds in the sky. June gave us one of our best shows to date. Yet difficult to compare them... Jungle legend APX-1's special dubstep set was as outstanding as it was exclusive. Especially, as he nonchalantly relayed, "I've only been spinning it for a few months." Although I've only been playing my part behind the decks since early 2010, I had never seen someone mix so fast. As a nascent emcee in this shit, I must say... Damn, that was hard to keep up with. Along the lines of: 16 bars, drop new track, 16--drop, 16--drop. Bewilderment and excitement flowing through my blood, I couldn't stop admiring the skill. Then I'd remember I'm supposed to be hosting. Inevitably, my line of sight would drift from the crowd back to the turntables, as a moth to a light. He very early on switched the house Serato vinyls with his own, functionally identical pair. Expressing that he just had to. I understood, as he quickly tossed aside the house Serato's bright pink vinyl, and got back to the mastery.


(APX-1 merking the Santa Babylon Soundsystem. City included) © Spencer Ramsey

On top of APX-1's mixment, there were loads of well-hard dubs in which I wasn't familiar. A few, which I would highly recommend, came from LA's Belgian badboy KNORSQ. Hosting a weekly radio show called BOMBADUB Fridays on sub.fm, where you can catch AKAIDER -- LIVE, TONIGHT at 8-10 pm pst. KNORSQ's hip-hop infused bass-rated innovations are becoming a staple within California. We also happened to host him in Santa Babylon last April in a knock-out party that would have made you think Coachella was canceled that weekend.

Our other guest selectah of June, local DJ Pursuade, destroyed it. With an almost beyond-natural ear for music (I've heard him do-up a variety of types) , man once again catered extremely well to the Santa Barbara niche in which he is becoming well established. Only recently has he begun to shift his interest moar to the darker side of electronic dance via dubstep. Looking FWD>> to the future collaborations! Our boy ERS-1, was celebrating both he and his newly-wedded wife's B-day. Big up, Geminis. So we made sure to make it a party... as usual. Which actually happens to be our standard platform and business model. Gotta have fun, get down, and get the fuck out (1:30 on the dot, or Babylon get the axe by the babylon, if ya get me). And we always do it with SB style -- it is after all, a proper bass party. All we need is moar bass. And we always got it... but that doesn't mean we can't always need moar, always. Right? Never.


(Left, KNORSQ @ Santa Babylon 4.16.2010) © Spencer Ramsey

(Right, DJ Pursuade w/ MC Hoodzpah 6.18.10) © Spencer Ramsey


Anyways, its about that time of month again. Santa Babylon will be turning up the summer heat Friday, 7.16.2010 @ Statemynt, State Street. This round presenting Los Angeles' own Dumbsteppaz. Originally dubbing their name -- as I was told -- for hating on the still-burgeoning scene awhile back. But like the rest of the lot: everyone comes around. As a dubstep artist, I admit, -- it took me a good minute to get into it. Luckily, living in the UK at the time undoubtedly expedited that listening pleasure. I was recently shown their remix of Die Antwoord, the S.A. trio we featured in April. Take a listen to the remix, below.


Die Antwoord - Enter The Ninja (Dumbsteppaz Remix) by Dumbsteppaz


Dumbsteppaz will also be featured along side MC Werd. The Los Angeles area emcee has been developed in the jungle/DnB and hip-hop underground for years. Naturally, dubstep was no long ting. Werd has rocked alongside world class DJs at classic LA events such as Ghettolife and Tonz of Drumz', "I ♥ LA". He also runs his own weekly event UPGRADE, every Wednesday in Costa Mesa, OC. Santa Babylon played there in April and it was off the hook. I highly recommend it for the OC bass kids. Try and pre-party a bit at Taco Mesa near-by, cool spot... but avoid unintentionally whistling at over-guarding women like Step Correct's true-bro faux-pas.


(MC Werd gonna light up the set @ Santa Babylon 6.17.10) © Spencer Ramsey
^Hoodzpah better take notes...

Definitely look FWD>> to this Los Angeles link-up. Let's be sure to give them a great reception by showing SB how we get down. That said, there will be plenty of the locals steppas -- who undoubtedly make or break a party -- out in full force. It's a strange thing to watch how the SB scene -- though equally strong at either time -- is rapidly altered by the dismissal of university classes for the summer. Not better necessarily, just different. I think that's a part of why the last APX-1 show in May, was held in such high-regard. I was just tripping on different vibes.

Having now preambled the local tip, I'm pleased to let you know next Friday's show will also bring you 805 DubCorps crew member and mutual supporter, Seppuku. The collective, front-manned by man, have a growing dubstep night at midtown's Creekside Bar and Grill. Although the venue and location is a bit different, its also ironically what makes it. First off, it's on a Thursday, one of youth-ridden Santa Barbara's finest nights. They also make it an 18+ event, which is something Santa Babylon, and the city itself, has been lacking since our arrival on State St. ended our back alley under-21 action. We miss all you on that Statemynt dance floor... but most your days are coming! Big upz, Dub Corps for feeding the need. Other welcoming points of contrast between D.C. is their mash-ups off all genres of bass. The crew plays rather obscure and extremely solid sets of hardcore, jungle, D&B, bassline, 2-step, grime, etc. I believe this gives the rapidly exploding, and thus, commercializing aspect of the dubstep scene, a new set of ears to hear other forms of underground music that they normally wouldn't surrender to. Once again, big upz, brochachos. Oh yeah, they also got BBQ till 11PM! Dub Corps keeps it moving for the blazers.



(Dub Corps's Sepukku performing at a S. American prison -- Heavy).
^R.E. Union will soon post some interesting input about this tour from Sepukku.

July 16th's event will also be having the usual Babylon soundbwoys pulling bro out shenanigans between blasted airhorns and tapping bottles; which by the way, should better be rationed out this time around before we get too low -- physically, and bottle-wise. Airhorns too. Hectic. Anyway... this mid-summer's night is gonna be the kicks! So bring your best pair and get ready to dance the night away with bass-pummeling shockwaves rinsing out the night.

On another note, Santa Babylon will be playing EOS night club's "Friday Night Cover," TONIGHT, July, 9th. I hear 9FeetOfSmoke's rumored to drop some rare house tunes for the EOS crowd. Uh oh. If your prone to face melting, be sure to wear your sunglasses tonight. Too many lasers. Not sure how the emcee situation will work out for this venue. Although it is a part of our show, I'll be stoked to see you there regardless... behind the decks or on the dance floor! Especially my boy Chris G. celebrating his born day -- mesa loc style. We will be in the newly established Goddess Lounge. DJ Wicked will be in his zone on the adjacent stage. Thanks to EOS night Club and Lounge for the wicked opportunity. You can also catch SB's Underground Souls collective now on the regular at the same venue. Next US-affiliated night will showcase Niko, bringing the styles with an extended 2.5 hour set, alongside the usual suspects on July, 23rd @ EOS.



Participating in a few undergrounds within the 805 for the remainder of July, Santa Babylon does have some wicked surprises coming your way for the rest of summer and into the year. Including a couple of our artists' individual production releases, massive headliners, bigger events, flavorful merchandise and MOAR BASS. So stay chooned. Check out Santa Babylon Group on Facebook for the latest updates. SantaBablyon.com will be up and running again shortly. Big tings a gwaan on in SB. Step up! P.E.A.C.E.

Undergrounds Souls: Short Fuse @ Red' s 7.4.10

It's about that time of year when we get to celebrate our separation from those damn Britons. These days, in an inescapable global interdependence in which no one is exempt... I generally like to think of myself as a multiculturalist. (I think others will eventually follow suit). Thus, national holidays don't generally exact a high level of patriotism out of me. Especially with the current complexity regarding my relationship to my national homeland. America. However, these holidays do get me quite thrilled. No, not of any homogeneous, nationalistic pride, excreted by trumped-up symbolism... but rather, excitement for the partaaaay! July 4th for myself is up there with New Years, Guy Fawkes Night and Summer Solstice. There's little better than eye-gasmic pyrotechnics exploding in the air over beautiful waterfronts whilst sipping a cold, inebriating beer on a warm, summer night. Northern merchants hand-in-hand with Southern farmers in outlandish toasts of "yee-haaws!!" and "brrooo!!"

Then of course, there's the stomping beats to dance the night away in total freedom. Bless our founding father's for their vision, even if those ideals are in a state of flux as time carries history. For all my Santa Barbara locals and vacationers coming to California's "paradise" for the weekend, there will be plenty of activities to keep your mind, body and soul inundated throughout the day and night. However, I can guarantee with absolute scientific precision, that the place to be in the 805 this Independence Day is Red's Wine Bar.


(Photos courtesy Michael McCann Phtography ©)

This July 4th, Underground Souls presents "Short Fuse". (The same collective that brought you the dance floor kinetics last year is back on it again -- just a few blocks away from the West Beach's fireworks display). If you're not familiar with the US crew, they have been throwing underground parties for a few years now. After building a local following in the 805, they have begun to showcase themselves more actively in clubs and other venues throughout Santa Barbara. It's not just the amazing beats and technically well-mixed sets ranging from sub-genres of techno to house to trip hop, then back full circle. Diverse as they all are, this crew encompasses a full sound which maintains a constant state of energy and unity throughout. It's the souls of these people. That's probably why US prides itself on being "souled out, not sold out." Which happens to be something I wish the other "U.S." would do). The close knit relationships of the DJs to the people they play for creates a positive environment unmatched in the Santa Barbara dance scene. Completely open to all people who come with this positivity; sharing life's energy with one human to another, one bass at a time.

Like any dope party, the family of supporters is most important. At they're parties I've come across some of the most pure-hearted individuals I've ever met... surprising, since I've only known them for less than a year. Myself being a complete bass head, usually preferring Dubstep, DnB and Hip-Hop, I generally find myself passing up those events as of late, in order to party with US. That's saying a lot personally, considering the level of passion toward my particular music interests. But the energy their events put into the atmosphere is addictive. If you've never been to their parties, one can't help but feel so much love and affection from "strangers." And not in that odd, substance-induced, full-trip way. Just pure hearts and open minds.


(Photos courtesy Michael McCann Phtography ©)

My point is, the anticipated escape to a night with the Underground Souls is something that always brings a smile to my face. I keep typing, but the words can't describe it. You just have to experience it for yourself. The next opportunity is this Sunday, July 4th @ Red's Wine Bar.

::Talent and Line up::

Lyricist IZE (Limbz, Cornerstone) will be rocking the mic.

3:00 - 4:30- Tag Team Set
4:30 - 5:45 - Cam (Deep House, Disco House)
5:45 - 7:00 - Joshua James (Disco House, Classic Chicago House)
7:00 - 8:15 - Rene (Micro Funk)
8:15 - 9:30 - Juntrik (Funky House, Electro)

9:15 - 10:00 - Fireworks (BOOM BOOM BOOM) -
Just a couple blocks away @ West Beach, Cabrillo Blvd.

10:00 - 11:15 - Level + Lyricist IZE (Jackin' House)
11:15 - 12:30 - KP Ward (Tech House)
12:30 - 2:00 - Niko (Techno, House)

As opposed to last year, the entire parking lot will be ready to rock with a full sound system. Lighting will also include HD 3D visuals with the first 200 receiving the appropriate eye wear. Oh and don't forget the awesome fire spinners, BBQ, drink specials, beautiful people and of course, the left speaker.

Now retaining residency at EOS night club with the next event July 23rd. (Keep up to date through Blacklight Special's blog, linked below). With this momentum, US are making some great moves within the Santa Barbara community. So get up and get out this weekend... and don't forget those reds, whites and grooves! P.E.A.C.E.


(Photos courtesy Michael McCann Phtography ©)

I'd also like to thank Michael McCann for the photos. Always on point with the camera. You can catch him shooting for SB Nightlife and his own individual excursions in film, including US parties when available. Check out some of his work below! Bless.

Michael McCann Photography:
Link: http://www.sbnightlife.com/
Link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikephantasmic/sets/

Underground Souls:
Link: http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=125300537511146&ref=mf
Link: http://tbsp.wordpress.com/



Redial Replay [Promo Mix] by The Blacklight Special