Part of the reason for the inception of this label was to platform not only my own productions, but also to have a vehicle for collaborators / friends and music I hold dear to my heart.
After the success of 001 I am very proud to present Ruff Kutz 002 - Pugilist & Tamen - Source.
Me & Luke immediately connected shortly after both moving to Melbourne around a similar time around 8 or 9 years ago. We immediately found a good working flow together and I can confidently say that we have both been massively influential to each other creatively. Source is our 5th collaborative EP and 10th record together as a production duo and I feel this EP is some of our best work yet!
The title track 'Source' is an ode to the more atmospheric Jungle anthems of innovators Source Direct - with a slightly dubbed out feel, retro aesthetics and nostalgic sampling. It culminates in a euphoric and hypnotic track, which whilst heavily referencing it's inspirations manages to be somewhat modern sounding.
In true Ruff Kutz fashion, the 2nd track on the A side 'Fuchsia' comes with an unexpected tempo drop - whilst continuing with the theme of the deep & melancholic tone of Source, but slightly more introspective and still within a jungle framework. The 2-step rhythm and melodic 808 bass underpins the carefully considered dubbing and melodic elements resulting in a unique track which could be compatible in many DJ sets across different genres.
'Limerick' on the B1 is affectionately named in the honour of Luke's great Uncle who sadly passed away around the time of writing this piece. It is a deeply personal atmospheric jungle track and might be one of our favorite pieces of music we have done together - it felt essential to have this on a home label and I'm really glad to have this on Ruff Kutz.
B2 'Miel' is a 160 Jungle track with 90s Hardcore leanings, a bit more playful in its approach with its fun drum edits and feel good pads and chords. This track elevates the EP with a welcome uplifting energy - nostalgic yet hopeful and whimsical and not taking itself too seriously.
We wanted to go a bit deeper with this EP and create something unique and more musical than we have previously released. In essence - delicate and dubbed out atmospheric groovers for those special moments on the dancefloor.
