Drum and bass artist USED channels his experience from being a factory worker to becoming a world-class DJ on his debut album, Night Shift.
The future for drum and bass is bright, especially with artists like USED helping push the genre forward. This artist first began his adventure into the music realm as a violinist before finding a love for electronic beats at 15. Over the years, that passion drove him, even as he toiled away working factory night shifts as he found his footing in the scene. Now, years later, USED has become one of the most sought-after DJs in drum and bass, and he’s finally unveiled his debut album, Night Shift, to pay homage to that journey.
Night Shift is out now on Breakbeat Kaos, the iconic DJ Fresh-led imprint that was revived in 2022 and signed by USED soon after. The label has become renowned for bringing some of the biggest landmark releases in drum and bass forward over the years, and his debut album fits perfectly into the fold. Found inside Night Shift are 12 tracks that double as USED’s manifesto as he blends rave culture with storytelling to create one of the best albums you’ll have listened to this year.
It’s in human nature to adapt to new situations quickly. We always look up to the next thing, which can be good if you’re ambitious. But none of that is worth anything if you can’t appreciate the ride to that level. And what a ride it’s been. A couple of laptops, a whole bunch of DJ sets, some for drink tokens, and a lot of missed sleep, we’re here. I wouldn’t have changed anything if I could. Night Shift is a tribute to that lifestyle. Long nights, from the factory to the highway restaurant.
USED
Those following USED will have already been treated to tracks like 2023’s “Limelight” and “You Say” with Jamie McCool, as well as “Psycho” with Idle Days, “Dangerous Game,” “Tonight” with Bou, and “Crossover” with Da Tweekaz and LePrince that arrived earlier this year. These all showcase the versatility that he brings to his productions and his ability to play well with others.
While firmly rooted in drum and bass, flourishes of other styles have crept into the mix. This is most prominent in the previously released collaboration with Da Tweekaz and LePrince, as the three artists marry drum and bass with hard dance and a touch of reggae for an insane ride that will leave you holding on for dear life.
There are plenty of gems to be unearthed in the new tunes. “In My Head” with Ruth Royall pairs gripping vocals about lost love with a jump-up beat that will ignite a fire in your soul. Jamie McCool’s second appearance on Night Shift, “LOVE,” as well as USED’s collab with RIENK, “Dopamine,” are stunners that put vocals front and center while keeping the shuffling energy alive. Meanwhile, the warped guitar on “Lighthouse” and the booming nature of “Ride The Wave” will satiate your cravings for drum and bass even on repeat listens.
This powerful album isn’t just your average drum and bass release. Sure, it might be filled with bass grooves, infectious melodies, and punchy percussion, but at its core is a reflection on the journey that USED has taken throughout his life. It’s well worth the listen because the future is clearly bright for this Belgian producer who continues to make waves in the scene.
Listen to Night Shift on Spotify, grab a copy on Beatport, and stay tuned for more from USED by following him on social media.
Stream USED – Night Shift on Spotify:
USED – Night Shift – Tracklist:
- Psycho (with Idle Days)
- Dopamine (with RIENK)
- Lighthouse
- Limelight
- Dangerous Game
- Crossover (with Da Tweekaz and LePrince)
- Ride The Wave
- Tonight (with Bou)
- In My Head (with Ruth Royall)
- You Say (with Jamie McCool)
- Explanation
- LOVE (with Jamie McCool)
Follow USED:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | SoundCloud | YouTube | TikTok
