Late 2007 saw some of dubstep’s first big-name successes, namely Burial and Boxcutter, releasing second albums to plenty of acclaim, but all eyes will be on 2008 being the big test for the not-so-nascent genre. Already plenty of critics have got their daggers out—the most serious charges being that genre is taking itself a bit too seriously, or a plague of bandwagon-jumpers is about to descend—but release-wise, early signs are good with a calendar of mouth-watering new releases already planned and almost a certainly a few more yet to hit the radar.
One of the first cabs off the rank will be Appleblim´s contribution to Tempa´s legendary Dubstep All-Stars mix series, which promises to further the crossover between minimal dub techno and dub step. Also on Tempa will be Benga’s debut full length ‘Diary of an Afro Warrior’, one of the most anticipated LPs in dubstep yet, which drops March 3rd.
Hot Flush will be busy with the usual slew of singles and an album or two. First up is the release of label boss Scuba´s debut ‘A Mutual Antipathy’ in March which promises to be an intelligent blend of atmospheres and electronics. Vaccine´s debut is also tentatively slated for later in the year.
Dutch producer 2562’s long player should hit the shops around the middle of the year on Pinch’s Tectonic imprint and will be well worth the wait since his distinct fast, dubby style has already caught the favour of many ears. Also in Bristol, the reputation of local producer and DJ Joker continues to grow and hopefully 2008 will see the hype translate to disc.
Kode 9´s Hyperdub will release a 12” from Ikonika in February while future signs of the big man or the bigger Spaceape remain to be seen, but rest assured they will be there.
Lastly, if you’re in London and in the mood for trophies this Thursday, check out the Dubstep Awards happening at Herbal with Kode9, Benga and N-Type and ten more in attendance.
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