N-Type has been making his name as a DJ on the dubstep scene ever since the start. Having run a label straight out of university he’s now collected enough dubs on his globe trotting to start a new imprint and so Vagabondz played host to the ‘Wheel & Deal’ launch party.
Hatcha quickly got on the crowd-please with a remix of Coki & Benga’s “Night” that earned the first rewind of the evening. Using the mixer to it’s full potential, Hatcha flicked and blended elements from different tunes, his bouncing behind the decks often being an indication of things going as he planned. Next up was Loefah who laid down a rumbling sub bass with snares sounding as if they were being sucked from the back of the room. The Bug’s ‘Poison Dart’ featuring the infectious “Warrior Queen” vocal finished the set in a mash of delay and beat repeat effects. Finally it was time more Mr Wheel & Deal himself to take the stage.
Apparently managing to drive the equipment harder than anyone, N-Type came on to a massive intro that was prelude to, instead of the desired tune, a complete drop out from the system. After a quick reload, we soon learned why as the filth of Chase & Status’ “Madhouse” forced its way through the speakers with its warped church organ and raw, chugging bassline. Hammering through the set with the enthusiasm, skill and tune selection he’s known for, N-Type treated us to some exclusive cuts and remixes as well as a couple of forthcoming gems from the new label (“Dark Matter”, heavy tune!).
N-Type’s own productions may be few and far between (an album has been “on the way” for a while now) but this is understandable when it’s clear he has so much fun mixing other people’s tunes and does it so well. Mentioned for varying reasons by nearly every dubstep DJ you speak to (and based on tonight) I think we can trust N-Type and his new venture to come up with the goods.
Words by Chris Leggett
Photography by Carl Thomson
What did you think of the gig?
