Mantissa’s second venture into the label space comes from Bristol-born DJ / producer & radio host Bex.  Percussive, heavy, bolty and jolty, the record is full of moments destined for those wanting to lose themselves on the dancefloor through Bex’s signature emotive soundscapes. 

Her late 2021 debut EP release, “Feels EP” felt reflective and warm, influenced by the increased introspection during lockdowns over the past two years. Her second release, Mantissa 002, sees these emotions once again taking centre stage with added dance-ready grooves born out of the return and resurgence of the freedom to dance. The record combines those emotional notes with high energy sounds, futuristic harmonies and classic but experimental dance influences.

The first track of the record “Stretcher” starts the affair on a smooth and soothing note, airy and easy before a welcoming kickdrum twists, breaks and stretches the ambience. “Science in Sport” blends an emotive and mood driven melody with familiar garage notes. These opening two tracks demonstrate the refreshing diversity in Bex’s sound and her unique approach to creating forward thinking dance music. 

Bex is a Bristol native, the experimental and less orderly side to dance music a key influence to her creative efforts. Holding a dance show residency “Stocks & Shares” on Noods Radio since 2018, her sound has evolved through broadening her listening during the curation of monthly shows. “Ridiculous” is traditionally experimental and the third track of the record brings a pulsating energy to the forefront, sirens alongside claps, with a pace and depth this song wonderfully encapsulates Bex’s approach and inspirations.

The whole style of the record is influenced by Bristol’s trademark sound, alongside this inspirations such as Om Unit or James Blake are subtly clear to hear. However, many of the moods projected throughout feel equally inspired by artistic influences beyond those of specific artists or locations. “Infinite Games” could just as easily soundtrack a sci-fi epic as it could move a dancefloor.

Dance music’s most notorious producer “Unknown Artist” returns for remix duties for the final track of the record. Straight to the point its four four and tempered groove, understated ravey percussion and spacey melodies expertly amalgamates what made Mantissa 001 so unique with what makes 002 so special.


https://soundcloud.com/bex_dj

Mantissa 002 - Bex - Snippets

MANTX004 - Aom - Water Boatmen
https://mantissa.bandcamp.com/track/water-boatmen

Premiere Requests: mantissa_1@outlook.com

@thomasallman-1
@james-acquaye-nortey-glover
@oatyg

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Walter Perlitz

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