London drum and bass standout Napes has returned to Alix Perez’s 1985 Music imprint alongside some notable collaborators.
Following his 1985 Music debut just last year, Napes has quickly become a staple artist of the label. Fans of more experimental drum and bass love his dark jungle cuts, and it’s clear why Alix Perez and team wanted his sound on the imprint. Napes has now dropped his latest release, the Steppin On Toes EP. The new project features four fresh tracks, and even a standout collaboration with the label head himself.
While Napes’ edgy sound wouldn’t quite fit in a mainstage set, it’s hard to imagine any drum and bass fan not falling in love with it. The Steppin On Toes EP opens with its namesake track, and it’s an instant grime-jungle classic. With help from Scratchy on vocals and French 1985 Music veterans Visages on the tune, it sets the tone perfectly for the beats to come.
Napes has two solo tunes on the EP, “Nine Mil” and “Ground Speed,” both with his signature dark dancefloor, deep-cut sound. Vocal chops and unexpected breaks keep things interesting and true to his underground style, making these tracks perfect for live sets and blends.
It comes as little surprise to most that the heaviest hitter on the Steppin On Toes EP is Napes’ collaboration with label owner Alix Perez, “Shimaki.” The name is a Japanese word that translates to a dangerous, swirling storm, or a violent gust of wind. It undeniably fits the sound. Dark and definitely violent, this tune is impossible to play just once.
Head to Spotify or your preferred platform to stream the latest from Napes on your best set of speakers.
Stream Napes – Steppin On Toes EP on Spotify:
Napes – Steppin On Toes EP – Tracklist:
- Steppin On Toes (with Visages and Scratchy)
- Nine Mil
- Shimaki (with Alix Perez)
- Ground Speed
