Historically, society has always needed one form of tonic or another. Tonics invigorate, restore, refresh and stimulate; much like this group of rising stars with their eyes on the prize. We’ve trawled some of the finest up & coming UK talent that the scene has to offer and hand-picked 6-tracks to kick start our brand new VA series of EP’s in Tonics: Batch 1.

Kicking off proceedings and returning for her first release on the imprint since the ‘Summer Soul EP’ in 2018, we gladly welcome back London producer Dushi, with a jazzy number titled ‘Lost In The Waves’. We’re greeted with wonderfully wide, warm strings and an almost Middle Eastern soundscape in the intro, followed by an uplifting, orchestral-style drop – complete with progressive, jungle percussion.

London native Lally is second up to the plate, with a sun drenched, rolling scorcher titled ‘All The Time’ – a palpable amen dream of tumbling sub, twinkling bells and lush, longing vocals. This track marks his first official release, and if this is anything to go off, we’ll be seeing a lot more of him!

Dorset resident & new kid on the block Vektah undoubtedly delivers on the title with his track ‘Request’. The tune opens with luscious, swirling synths which fast descend into honks of incoming bass, jungle breaks and ragga vocals which will almost certainly have you shouting at your nearest DJ, demanding them to “run it”.

Makah’s ‘Crest’ rides in like a seasoned surfer, the intro rhythmically building tension with bubbling textures and washing synths amid swinging yet techy breaks, screeches and boundless bass. The second debut on the project, this accomplished first outing means this Cornwall-born composer is definitely one to watch for 2021.

The third and final newcomer is Brighton boy Silloh and his debut ‘Strange Matter’. The track opens with cascading, shimmering chimes and a slight air of unease. The drop kicks like a mule, boasting roaring grunts of bass, high velocity drums; all of which are sure to evoke some downright evil expressions in the rave!

Finally, Manchester’s own Motiv calls for last orders with the deceptively titled ‘Crave’ a deep, warm hug of a half time tune. Complete with wide, wobbling pads and clicking percussion wrapped in hypnotic vocals, you’ll no doubt long to hear this track, like some sort of uncontrollable urge.

So get your orders in for 6 doses of the finest effervescent d&b that money can buy, and raise a glass to the next batch of bubbling talent, pouring into all good stores on the 21st of May 2021.

Released May 21, 2021 on Soulvent Records.

H/T Soulvent Records.