Anyone who’s familiar with Zomby’s releases on Hyperdub, Werkdiscs and 4AD will recognise how influential Wiley’s iconic eski-beat sound has been for the mysterious UK producer’s career. The dark croaking basslines, coarse beats and murky textures of Zomby are so indebted to Wiley’s OG grime sound that it’s actually a real surprise that these two uniquely British musical minds haven’t hooked up sooner.
‘Step 2001’ is the first official collaboration between the two artists, with Zomby rebuilding Wiley’s grime banger ’Step 20’ – the final track off his 2013 mixtape Step 1-20, which was reissued earlier in the year via Big Dada. Utilising a devious Korg Triton square bass patch, Wiley’s vocals get a refresh accompaniment in line with his icy eskimo sound, with flow that cements his notoriety as the king of grime.
12” & digital release out 24th September on Big Dada. Pre-order here.
