Whales is one of those Monstercat names that’s been quietly putting in work without ever becoming a household word, and Speed Of Light is a strong argument that more people should be paying attention. This sits right on the line between melodic dubstep and straight-up electronic, with a build that promises something euphoric before the drop yanks it somewhere heavier. I love a track that fakes you out like that. The melody in the intro is genuinely lovely, all shimmering synths and a vocal chop that hints at a future bass direction, and then the bass design comes in and reminds you what label you’re listening to. The contrast is the whole point. There’s a real craft to making something this big still feel emotional, and Whales threads that needle better than most. The second half opens up into a more anthemic space that earns every bit of its size. Speed Of Light works equally well in a festival crowd or alone in headphones overthinking your life. Range like that is rare. Respect.
January
Chrome Daydream
Chrome stars, jelly hearts and holographic colour. A nod to the glossy, optimistic graphics of the early web.