John Hislop, better known as Culprate, is among electronic music’s most influential yet underrated artists. For years, the Bristol-based creative has been delivering cutting-edge material that broadly falls under the umbrella of bass music, but contains, and is often driven by, soul-stirring musicality that few in the scene can mimic. From the legendary Nightmares in Reality EP, to his foray into story-telling experimental albums, Culprate refuses to conform to mainstream expectations and constantly strives for innovation.
After six years away from Inspected, a label that the artist has called home on multiple occasions, Culprate recently announced his return to the imprint with the Normal EP, an eight-track journey that promises to resonate deeply with fans both old and new. Due for release on October 31st, the project showcases the artist’s signature technical mastery while delivering a fresh blend of stylistically diverse tracks, finding a perfect home on Inspected where innovation strives. Ahead of the release, we have the extreme pleasure of premiering ‘Area 51’ today.
‘Area 51’ plunges listeners into a sonic enigma, embodying the secrecy and speculation surrounding its namesake. True to his signature style, Culprate crafts a relentless neurofunk soundscape that feels both sinister and otherworldly, mirroring the myths of hidden technologies tied to Area 51. The track unfolds with an eerie atmosphere, as echoing synths and futuristic, metallic clinks build tension as if drawing closer to an unknown threshold. When the drums finally kick in, they do so with surgical precision, driving the track forward with a mechanical rhythm. Culprate uses sharp, punchy, and unpredictable drops and breaks, keeping listeners guessing just as Area 51 mysteries have done so for decades. The relentless bassline twists and mutates throughout, inducing controlled confusion through its intricate, sinister sound design.
‘Area 51’ is a drum and bass experience for the curious and the brave. Don’t miss it below and be sure to check out the rest of the Normal EP tomorrow.
