Tape B Keeps the Bass Alive with CarTunes Vol. 4
February 6, 2025
February 6, 2025
Dubstep star LEVEL UP is well-known for her spooky/heavy sound and aesthetic, releasing several iconic singles and EPs. Gradually rising through the scene with her strong work ethic. Her consistent, quality output continues with The Sapphire Souls EP, a headbang worthy four-track release that blends earth shattering drops with mesmerizing grooves and atmospheric interludes. Blending the spooky and serene with shimmering synth bars and a consistent barrage of drums.
“That One Dubstep Song” starts out on a haunting note. Like the beginning pages of a warping horror novel. An ominous loop and rising steel drum effects build tension, as more sound elements bubble up from the surface. Expanding into a time warp backed by thick robotic bass and a drum pre-build. Wubs rush in with a whirr before breaking into the drop.
“HEY!! Wanna hear the new dubstep song I wrote?? WUB WUB!”
A heavy breakdown ensues. Split apart by the wubs that we love. Bass, drums and lasers hammer the listener from all sides before returning to the haunting intro loop. A gorgeous harmony and electric pulses dance in the background as the track builds up. Rapid drums build to a different vocal sample and a slightly distorted second drop. Closing out with LEVEL UP’s patented spooky flair.
“Awaken” is a high-octane collaboration that features fellow dubstep star VASTIVE. Heavy drum fills, claps, and kaleidoscopic production build anticipation. Leading into a sample break: “Hit me like” Revving bass rises and falls to the sky, joined by pummeling drums and surreal ticking. “Awaken” then accelerates at breakneck speed. Raging instrumentals and vocals collide in an intense track segment. Building into the first drop. An ectoplasmic breakdown that repeatedly shifts in tone. From steady laser fire, to low ended bass battering rams. A shuffle worthy breakdown brings the listener into an inter-dimensional tunnel that launches into the next drop. Taking on a starry, melodic tone before growing heavier. This drop is spliced by scratches, fades, and briefs guitar riffs. Plampy grooves and cascading bass cause an irresistible head bop.
“Awaken” loops back to the intro, a BRIEF calm before the storm. The drums and vocals turn into a brutal onslaught. Spiraling, warped instrumentals add to the chaos, building the track up yet again. MADNESS! The final drop starts as a teaser. Transforming to a beautifully unexpected techno wonderland. A intricate fist bumping adventure that fades into the conclusion.
This collaboration shows the incredible skill and versatility that these artists are known for. “Awaken” is a detailed song that blends numerous styles and genres together. A true roller-coaster ride.
“CHALLENGE ME MORTAL!”
“Dark Side” is the third track on The Sapphire Souls EP. It starts out with a classic dubstep introduction. A beautiful tapestry of sound dances under a chilling sample. The sample is made more effective by the subtle, spooky instrumentals. It warns of a man whose “Dark side has taken full control.” Telling listeners that to “lock their doors and stay inside” and that it “may already be too late.”
The progressive drums add to the haunting nature of this track. Moving at an unnerving pace. A steady fog evolves into heavy drum effects. A cybernetic wave and surreal choir build off of the accelerating drums into the next drop.
“EMBRACE THE DARK SIDE!”
This drop features thick wubs the roll into blaring bass and chunky lasers. Change in tone and becoming extra low ended. A mesmerizing bridge turns into another drop. Featuring extra thick bass and buzzes.
“Dark Side” makes an effective use of the chosen samples. They blend well with the heavy and paranormal elements. LEVEL UP’s ability to progressively shift tone shines in this one. Another solid song!
“Alive” is the final song on the EP and begins with a soothing introduction and crisp vocals.
“We will never rule the world. But we will never give up the fight. We’ve got to keep our hopes and dreams alive. We will never have it all. But we will forever unite!”
A beautiful blanket of sound hugs every line as new elements are introduced. Heartfelt claps and gorgeous production leads into the first drop. A melodic and wubby sea with digital icebergs. Shuffling drums keep the beat, as we return to melody. A glistening hum enters the frame while the singer belts it. Another build up occurs. This drop starts out heavy and progresses into a sapphire coated world. Concluding the EP.
“Alive” mixes the perfect ratio of heaviness and melody. A great way to conclude this EP. The incredible vocals are soaring and empowering, with the lyrics to match. Painting a beautiful portrait of resilience and unity. A perfect way to the describe the electronic music scene and the unique sense of connection that this community experiences.
Don’t miss LEVEL UP at Marquee Theatre in Tempe, Arizona this February 28th for her Sapphire Souls Tour with support from Zeke Beats. Grab your tickets here!
Connect with LEVEL UP: Facebook | Instagram | X | Spotify | SoundCloud