The Exceptional New Release: Damocles by Kolectiv on Metalheadz– A Modern Exploration of Drum and Bass
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The year 2025 heralds a new milestone in the realm of drum and bass music with the release of “Damocles”, the debut EP from the extraordinary musical outfit Kolectiv on the esteemed Metalheadz label. Notably recognized for their profound ventures into cryptic and explorative sounds, Kolectiv has perpetually demonstrated their commitment to minimalism conjoined with soulful depth. This dark, minimalistic approach is threaded seamlessly through their newest work, an EP crafted with the precision that has become synonymous with their name. In this impressive collection, the UK-based band collaborates with OB1, Omega Point, and Minor Forms creating an integrated and textured musical experience, further focusing attention on the full breadth of their artistic spectrum.
Metalheadz, a significant figure within the drum and bass realm, founded by Goldie, Kemistry & Storm in 1994, forms a core part of the rich tapestry woven into the release of “Damocles”. Goldie’s transformative experiences immersed in the rave scene, particularly at Rage club, gave shape to his vision that eventually led to the birth of Metalheadz. This path was also significantly influenced by DJ Kemistry’s introduction of Goldie to 4hero’s Reinforced Records, where Goldie had the opportunity to work on design, artwork, and A&R.
Goldie’s uniquely contagious obsession with metal acetates, known as dubplates, birthed the name of the record label – Metalheadz. These dubplates were instrumental in testing tunes before release. Metalheadz emerged as a “dubplate label” for Reinforced Records, and the logo initially surfaced on an acetate for a Rufige Cru track, marking the genesis of an emblematic journey.
The impactful influence of Metalheadz can be traced back to key figures in drum and bass music such as Photek, Dillinja, Adam F, Grooverider, and others who enriched the imprint with their contributions. Metalheadz soon gained legendary status with the launch of their weekly Sunday Sessions club night at London’s iconic Blue Note club, further propelling the label into the public eye.
In Kolectiv’s Damocles EP, the influence of Metalheadz is as apparent as ever. Embodying the spirit of the label and observing the influence of music heavyweights like Goldie, the EP marks an evolution in how drum and bass can be perceived. They incorporate the classic Metalheadz aesthetics while enhancing the production with an artistic vision that reflects the eclectic amalgamation of their musical influences.
This ambitious endeavour speaks volumes about the creative vigor of Kolectiv. Their collaborators – OB1, Omega Point, and Minor Forms, also equally exemplify this spirit. Coupled with the visionary mettle of Metalheadz, the Damocles EP, is a significant addition to the library of every drum and bass enthusiast in 2025, as a testament to the continuous growth and reinvention of the genre. The spectrum of music presented not only pays homage to the roots of drum and bass and Metalheadz’s undeniable influence but also paints a fresh perspective on the future of the genre for years to come.
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