Vex’d / Cloud Seed

Planet Mu

Vex'd are a legendary duo. Their 2005 album Degenerate was one of the first and most successful dubstep long-players, and remains to this day one of the most respected. By incorporating techstep, jungle, breaks and apocalyptic noir influences into the classic "bass and drums and 140 BPM" format, Degenerate was integral in establishing the template for today's dubstep sound, pushing it beyond its roots in two-step and UK garage. A follow-up of sorts, Cloud Seed is comprised of original music intended for the group's never-released sophomore album, plus rarely heard remixes from the same era. Expertly sequenced to flow like a full album, it's an addendum to the career of Vex'd (who rarely work together anymore), made from the best of their work. Though one might be tempted to think of Cloud Seed as a collection of unfinished sketches, the result will confound that expectation. Made with William Blake's apocalyptic vision of London in mind, the album's atmospheric, cinematic intensity rivals Burial, and its complex darkness, The Bug. It contrasts light and dark, rough and sophisticated to amazing effect. Cloud Seed also features a small selection of guests, from Warrior Queen (best known for her work with The Bug) to Anneka and Jestonesart (from New York MC collective The Atoms Family).

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