Zombie Cats – Naus/Exit [Dispatch Recordings]

This week we got a very special sample of the audio blacksmith duo Zombie Cats. The boys have been a staple for any neurofunk gourmet since their breakout tunes on Eatbrain’s legendary Tales of the Undead LP, Grey Town and Future Lights, alongside their Must Eat! EP back in 2014. Since then they have been smashing both stages and releases with unbridled fury, cementing their place within the drum and bass community. While known for their blistering heavy sound, their On and On/Belong release on Program earlier this year shows that even these war hammers of drum and bass are no stranger to deep sounds. Now returning to Dispatch Recording, the duo showcases their tender but heavy side with their debut release on the label: Naus/Exit.

Living up the name, Naus starts with the sounds of swishing water and swirling pads, punctuated by soaring vocals. These are then further built upon with a shuffling break that wavers between arpeggiating synths. While beneath it droning reese bass makes up the seafloor of this track, pulling everything together. A departure from what we think of when we hear the name Zombie Cats but it is a welcomed one to set sail on.

Exit however proves to be a different beast and a fitting way close out this single. This track pulls together Zombie Cats strength as producers, showcasing perfectly both sides of the coin. On the one hand, the track is dripping with atmosphere. Between the serene pads, vocal samples, and swirling white noise, Exit has a level of tranquility to it. On the other side of the coin are dark and explosive breakbeat drums that would make any junglist’s head pop off, further punctuated by the syncopated bass that adds such intensity. All this is woven together to create a track that is equal parts a banger and a vibey tune.

One should never judge a book by its cover and Zombie Cats epitomize that with this release. While know for that in your face neurofunk, the boys show without of a doubt that they know how to dig deep with their own special flavor. Grab your copy today!

Bandcamp: https://dispatchrecordings.bandcamp.com/album/dis157-naus-exit

Beatport: https://www.beatport.com/release/naus-exit/3076444