Belgium's scene has always been interesting to me and since we're neighbors, and partially share the same language, it only makes sense that we're constantly looking to build bridges with their scene and artists. DJ/producer Bass Toast has already been featured with a mix last month, and today we're bringing you one of his forthcoming productions.
Alexandre Bastos aka Bass Toast is a DJ and producer based in Brussels, Belgium. His soulful and percussion-rich selections first grabbed my attention through a mention of a mutual friend (shout-out to Ask Me Later!). I took their advice, checked out Bass Toast immediately, and it didn't take long before I knew the impeccable selections were absolutely aligned with the stuff we're into over here at Steppin'. Not too long after that, we met in person at Radio Radio where he played a set after my monthly show. I stuck around to listen and loved every bit of it. The next logical step was getting Alexandre to record a Mixed Feelings episode for us, which was the very last mix we dropped in December. His guestmix paints a perfect picture of his taste and the kind of energy he brings..
Bass Toast draws heavy inspiration from West London's broken beat sound, but old-school Chicago, New York, and Detroit house also find a way into his selections and productions. Glue those together with soulful chords and jazz-like melodic phrases and you're there. On his forthcoming 4-track EP Golden Spunk most tunes definitely lean more towards the UK influences this time, with the title track being the absolute bruk banger on there.
Solid programmed kick-snare patterns set the groove, various vocal samples bouncing around, with a couple of subtly placed synths as cherries on top. This tune works and I'm already looking forward to dropping it at the next party.
The full Golden Spunk EP will be out on Jan 13th via Cosmic Breeze Records.
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