Dexter's Beat Laboratory Vol. 142

by: Robyn Dexter May 15, 2020

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Dexter’s Beat Laboratory is a weekly collection of songs from DA managing editor Robyn Dexter. With a taste that can only be described as eclectic—to say nothing of a name that lends itself to punnery—DA is happy to present a selection of tracks personally curated by Dexter for your listening pleasure.

Listen in playlist format here.

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Metrik‘s new Hospital Records adventure is just that—an adventure. Trance-like synths usher in the introduction of the song, layering up and eventually adding in a voice that wonders aloud, “Is this just a dream? I won’t leave you behind.” As the drop approaches, it becomes clear the song is building into an intrepid drum ‘n’ bass composition, and the intensity continues to ebb and flow throughout the length of “Automata.”

Nestled in amongst the nearly two dozen songs that comprise Illenium‘s new ASCEND remix package is a fiery drum ‘n’ bass number from iconic producer, label head, and radio host Friction. Friction’s interpretation of “Lonely” is perfectly complementary of Illenium’s original, though the Brighton native injects his own emotive drum ‘n’ bass flair.

It’s been almost a decade and a half since 50 Cent‘s “Disco Inferno” hit the airwaves, but its influence lives on. For the past month, versatile producer 4B has been flipping everything from 1989 Technotronic hit “Pump Up The Jam” to Migos’ 2019 tune, “Pure Water.” In one of his most recent flips, he’s taken on “Disco Inferno” an given it an irresistible Jersey Club bounce. It’s a fun way to revisit a classic.

Tchami‘s “Ghosts” has been enjoying a diverse remix package as well, drawing the interest of producers like Honey & Badger, Kramder, GODAMN, and Vowed. Kramder’s take on the tune is particularly intriguing, as the French producer introduces a faster tempo and airy layers of synths.

LASZLO has been fairly quiet on the release front since last summer’s remix of Julian Jordan‘s “To The Wire,” but that all changed on May 15. In the description for his new tune, LASZLO said he “wanted to make something packed with fresh new vibes,” and “BE MINE” is the result. Though short in length, the producer packs the song with uplifting melodies and a playful beat.