Grafix's New Album is Dancefloor DnB at its Finest

**Grafix’s sophomore album, Don’t Stop Now, is a masterclass in balancing technical prowess with mainstream appeal.**

Bristol-based DJ and producer Grafix has been shaping the drum and bass scene for over a decade, first making waves as one half of the duo Fred V & Grafix. The pair quickly put themselves on the map with their widely acclaimed remix of Sub Focus’ “Endorphins,” earning a reputation for high-energy, festival-ready tracks that blend sensibility with dancefloor intensity.

Since splitting in 2018 to pursue solo projects, Grafix has proven himself a powerhouse in the dancefloor world. He has collaborated with heavyweights on songs like “Make It Pump” and “Giants” with Culture Shock, “Comedown” with Andromedik, and “Nocturnal” with Delta Heavy. His remixes of “Offender” by Dimension and “Let Me Hold You” by Netsky arguably rival the popularity of the originals. He has also delivered a string of well-received originals, including “Feel Alive” with Lauren L’aimant, “Body Language,” and “Somewhere” with Reiki Ruawai.

Now, Grafix is back with his sophomore studio album, Don’t Slow Down, released on October 10 via AEI, adding to his collection of high-energy, DnB anthems.

While dance music with more mainstream appeal can often lean toward formulaic structures, Grafix stands out with production that is highly technical yet effortlessly engaging. Not a single detail goes unaccounted for in the entirety of the album, and each element is crafted with careful precision and attention. Each song stands strong on its own while contributing to a fluid, well-balanced listening experience.

Although collaborations are a staple in modern dance music, over half of the album’s tracks are solo efforts, highlighting Grafix’s musical vision and underscoring his command of production on his own. “Don’t Slow Down” sets the tone for the album’s high-octane energy, making it impossible to stay still from the very first drop with its rolling basslines. “Final Cut” and “Signs” are the most intricate, blending complex rhythmic patterns and layered synths seamlessly for highly technical and sophisticated tracks.

Emotive, melodic vocals remain a commanding feature of drum and bass, and each contributing singer on Don’t Slow Down plays a vital role in shaping the album’s vibrant, textured atmosphere. In “Drift Away,” WHAT EVA‘s airy vocals float over the melodic build-ups, carrying catchy lyrics that prime the track for the soaring, syncopated drops that follow. Meanwhile, Nu-La lends her rich, polished vocals to the third track, “Vital Signs,” creating anticipation in the prelude and gradually gaining momentum with the production that falls into a dynamic drop.

In addition to “Don’t Slow Down” and “Vital Sign,” tracks six through eight, “Let Me Down” with Rova, “We’re On Fire” with Madishu, and “Memories (Us Together)” with Raphaella, were released in the months leading up to today’s release. These captivating singles offered an early glimpse into the album’s inventive and electrifying soundscapes that run throughout the entire discography.

A standout on the album is “Ready 2 Break” with ashworld99. Using a 4×4 structure, the track channels the dark, intense energy of techno with its broody synths and driving percussion, but its fast-paced tempo and breakbeat sensibilities keep it rooted in drum and bass. The track shifts between 4×4 rhythms and traditional drum and bass patterns, creating a one-of-a-kind track where both styles complement each other.

This album is for everyone—for DnB newbies looking to expand their sonic palette, to longtime heads or producers who appreciate meticulous sound design and production. Truly, Don’t Stop Now has no skips, so contrary to the album’s title, stop what you’re doing right now and listen to it on your preferred streaming platform.