As their latest cuts—“Get Dirty VIP” and “Welcome to Your Nightmare” (feat. Nuklear MC)—continue to blast their way across dancefloors worldwide via Viper Recordings (out now!), Luke Bugden and Mark Sims of Mob Tactics touch down with the Bassrush fam to offer up an in-depth discussion of four influential cuts that not only inspire but serve as a benchmark for their own evolution as producers.
Yolk “Music 4 Da People” (Ruffbeat, 1992)
Luke: I remember hearing this for the first time back in 1992 when I was still at school and being absolutely blown away. It was when rave music was really beginning to kick off and reach a wider audience with the huge parties that were going on up and down the country each weekend. This particular track was featured on a live mix by Donovan Badboy Smith at Fantazia; I must have listened to that set a thousand times. I knew then that I wanted to be involved in this music and it would eventually lead me to becoming a DJ not long after I left school. Amazing memories are still conjured up every time I hear this record.
Get it at Discogs
Run The Jewels “Get It” (Fool’s Gold Records, 2013)
Luke: From way back when to the modern day, these guys are the most exciting thing in hip-hop, period. I’ve been a fan of El-P for a long time. His incredible—and I mean incredible—production just leaves me dumbfounded. Could’ve picked anything from any one of their albums, but this one always gets my blood pumping and the hairs up on the back of the neck. Raucous stuff! If we ever reach halfway to achieving their production levels I’ll die a happy man.
Get it at Spotify | Beatport | iTunes
Daft Punk “The Grid” off the Tron Legacy OST (Walt Disney Records, 2010)
Mark: Such an epic original soundtrack! The production and vibes created on the whole soundtrack are just so ridiculously good. I love the fact that Daft Punk can try something new and smash it out of the park with ease. It’s very inspiring as a producer. That reminds me…I need to watch Tron again.
Get it at Spotify | Beatport | iTunes
The Streets “Blinded By The Lights” (679 Recordings, 2004)
Mark: He might not be to everyone’s tastes, but I love the fact that Mike Skinner just did his own thing without seemingly being influenced by others. I remember listening to the album on repeat over and over at school and this particular track is an absolute classic for me; it takes you on a proper journey. Wicked chord progressions and spine chilling vocals. Oosh!