501 - Crystallize EP (2014) [EDM, Dubstep, Trap] [Never Say Die Records] *Zoto* [EDM RG]

Label: Never Say Die Records
Artist: 501
Featuring Artists: Barely Alive, RAS, Protohype
Genre: Dubstep, Trap
Released: 2014-12-08
Catalog: NSDX066

Just over a year after releasing his 'Beat The System EP', iconic dubstep producer 501 is armed with a new four-track collection for Never Say Die, to be released on 8th December. With his music, it is often a case of quality over quantity, and 'Crystallize' stands as a testament to this.

The title track opens with a rolling and snare-heavy introduction but soon increases in power, firing stuttering shots beneath snatches of vocals. Next up is 'Won't Change', a blistering collaboration with Protohype with vocals from Ras, that fuses bleeps, glitches, soft melodic riffs and furiously hammering drops together in slick harmony.

'Kill Your Boss' is funk-filled from start to finish, incorporating catchy piano hooks and swift tempo switches alongside gargling jerks of bass. Barely Alive close the EP with their remix of this track, and sling some hip hop influences into the mix before taking things down a notch in their trademark hybrid trap style.

501's sounds are sounding as fresh and imaginative as ever throughout 'Crystallize EP' - this is a truly striking release.