Mengzy & MZA drop 2 original breaks-laden cuts on Hardcore Energy

UK label Hardcore Energy is known for championing the sounds of rave, hardcore, breaks and all things bass-heavy. The London-based imprint founded by duo Origin8a & Propa has released the fourth edition of its ‘Introducing’ series featuring 13 tracks that emulate the hi-energy UK rave spirit.

The fourth instalment shines a light on both up-and-coming and more established producers who have obtained recognition within the underground scene. Each provide a distinct take on the rhythm and harmonies that characterise the revered tapestry of UK rave — from full-throttle bangers and spicy cuts with acid squelches to tracks that lean more towards the tranquil.

Stepping up as Asian representation are Hong Kong bass princess-slash-professor, Mengzy, and one-half of the Yen Disco Soundsystem founding duo, MZA.

‘Telegraph 30’ is MZA’s almost-six-minute cut that oozes with ambient breaks, atmospheric samples and haunting vocals that skitter across the track. Just as you submerge in the waves of floaty, undulating synths, the percussive breaks re-enter and take you faster into euphoric and elemental atmospheres. The perfect chillout rave track to cool down with as you let your mind wander.

Meanwhile, Mengzy’s ‘Medusa’ is definitely one for peak-time pleasures, with a synth line that rings true to its early 2000s The Prodigy inspiration. For Mengzy it’s all about the “Rave vibes and dark energy. The Reese bass snakes through in a kind of sly, mysterious way, which inspired the title ‘Medusa’.” Your new go-to 140 bpm distortion-heavy anthem to get everyone rave-ready.

“Stoked to represent Asian producers alongside MZA — I think it shows the power and dynamism of hardcore and rave music as a global sound,” says Mengzy about her participation in the release.

Tracklist:
1. Cheff The Boy 'Ways Of The Underground'
2. JETTA 'HIGHER'
3. Body Hook 'Bad Boy Sound'
4. FiASCO & NiCELY 'Jack Da Beatz'
5. MZA 'Telegraph 30'
6. Amen Shamen 'Jus' Roll It'
7. Zone 2 'Simmering'
8. Charlie B 'Hold On'
9. Liam Parkins 'Just Passion'
10. PRISM B.R.K 'MK Ultra'
11. Mengzy 'Medusa'
12. Graphite 'Minimal Jam'
13. Progress Is Made 'Rocking'

'Hardcore Energy Introducing (Vol. 4)’ is out now; listen to it in its entirety here.

Amira Waworuntu is Mixmag Asia’s Managing Editor, follow her on Instagram.