January 2025 Artist Spotlight: Quackson

2025 is off to a roaring start! Producer/DJ Quackson appeared in my Apple Music recommendations in the early hours of the new year. His mesmerizing production style, heavy drumbeats and diverse sampling techniques come together to create incredible works of art. Mystical, menacing, and groovy all at once! The cover art of the singles is just as surreal as the songs tied to them. Discovering Quackson was a major event, making him the perfect candidate for my first Spotlight of 2025.

“Dilation” was my introduction to Quackson’s music and made a very strong first impression. The track begins with layers of ticking clocks and electrical sputters that roll into the beat over a haunting sample. The instrumentals also mimic the cogs of a clock. Further adding to the tracks thematic elements. The sample slows down the track significantly.

“The clock’s hands will appear to completely freeze. Time has SLOWED DOWN.”

Popping drums effects, radiating laser waves, and a fuzzy undercurrent greet us on the other side. A steady wub can be heard in the background. Accompanied by an intergalactic outer ring. Two tones of ticking clocks effortlessly bounce off of each other as they are cut by the lasers around them. The lumbering drums keep the beat, as metallic whistling whirs in the distance. “FREEZE!”

“Dilation” gradually adds more layers and elements to the mix. Returning to the ticking clock intro before the next track section. This is followed by another chilling sample:

“The faster you move through space. The slower you move through time.”

“TIME” echoes on, adding to the distortion of this track. The drop following this transition is extra wobbly. Ominous ticks enter the frame, counting down to the final seconds of the track. Fading out with sweep effects and light percussion.

“Lunatic” is a masterpiece with standout creative decisions, SICK cover art, and tons of wobbles. A digital tornado of distortion that gradually forms. Exploding, contracting, and built up again. Brick by brick. “Lunatic” is Quackson at his most fun and experimental. Pushing the boundaries of what sound design is capable of. My favorite track element is the extended “LUNATIC” section around the 40 second mark. This is formed by the combined forces of the other elements. Plampy instrumentals are sliced by sharp wubs. Subtle bells add a lighter flair to the song that the instrumentals warp around. Deep, splashy drums dance with crystalline notes and revving bass waves. The track builds up to a second “LUNATIC” element of a different tone. The track takes on some serious groove before the final “LUNATIC” call out. This one carries on a bit longer, freestyling along with the beat and wubs. Dissipating into a glitchy mist that closes out the track. WELL DONE!

Quackson has crafted a diverse discography made up of numerous styles and influences. His solo work is fantastic, though he also partnered with Rezz and Wreckno to create “Gyrate.” A swinging release that lives up to its title. Other standouts include: “Floating,” “Silence,” and “Brains.” “Brains” is exceptionally cool. Combining horror, mysticism, and bass to create a memorable release. In fact, the entire Dilation EP is FANTASTIC. Unexpectedly discovering Quackson’s music has been a great start to my 2025 music journey and I couldn’t wait to share his music with you. Happy Listening!

Connect with Quackson: Facebook | Instagram | X | Spotify | SoundCloud