Renowned Australian bass virtuoso Opiuo collaborates with New Zealand's Ashez to infuse the electronic scene with a burst of innovation through their vibrant EP, ‘Underground,' scheduled for release on June 21st. Featuring four tracks, this EP highlights the unique talents of Opiuo and Ashez, each contributing their distinct style to the rich tapestry of bass music. With refined bass landscapes adorning each track, the compilation emerges as a sophisticated and exhilarating masterpiece, showcasing the depth of their artistry.
“Me and Ashez have been very close for years now. We met via our good friend Clozee (I heard his music while staying at her house one time) and I was instantly like “who is THIS?!”. I played a couple of his songs in my set (I rarely play anyone but my own) and instantly wanted to connect and collaborate. After some internet sessions we met in real life and the creativity just flowed seamlessly. I'm so proud of this music. It's more moody, and a little darker, but that's what a good collaboration should be, a bit of both of you mashed into something fresh and new. I'm so happy to finally share this music with everyone! There's nothing more beautiful & rewarding than writing music with friends!” – Opiuo
The EP begins with its lead single, ‘Underground,' starting with a mystical melody that gradually builds into captivating leads, transitioning seamlessly into intricate bass drops. Enhanced by the vocal phrase “this is the wave of the underground,” the track reaches its climax with a dynamic shift into an intricate call-and-response segment, gripping listeners in pulsating bass hits.
“Oscar and I became friends after he found my music and reached out. I was stoked as I had been a fan for years, and now I'm even more stoked to announce the release of our EP. We realized pretty quickly we worked extremely well as a team, and our first single release, “Bash Plate” received so much hype and support. Oscar invited me to come and stay at his place for a week in Byron before a festival we were both playing at, we started a few different projects and have slowly been adding and adjusting them ever since. I'm so excited to release this EP as both Oscar and myself have been playing these tracks out for ages now. It's always awesome working with your mates and we think this EP is a great representation of both of us and our sounds. “ – Ashez
Next up, ‘Bobby Dazzler' emerges as the next groove dance anthem, featuring a lively four-on-the-floor drum pattern, clever motif, and rhythmic bass hits. Following that, ‘Ricochet' injects a dynamic, cryptic bass into the project, and closing the EP is ‘My Love,' which instills a beloved, sentimental aura and a trance of exploration.
In essence, this four-track EP delivers a fresh bass experience, showcasing new realms of creativity through the collaboration of Opiuo and Ashez. Together, they elevate live bass to new heights, offering listeners exciting sonic adventures.
About Opiuo
Born in rural New Zealand in 1984, native to Australia, Opiou was immersed in the electronic music scene from a young age due to his parents hosting music festivals. His music, a fusion of funk, soul, psychedelia, and bass, embodies positivity and movement. His sold-out show at Red Rocks in 2023 affirmed his status as a leading figure in electronic music.
About Ashez
ASHEZ is a bass music producer from Auckland, New Zealand, with over 4 million streams across platforms. He has collaborated with top artists like CloZee, Opiuo, and Truth, and has toured Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. ASHEZ has performed at major festivals such as Envision, Rabbits Eat Lettuce, and Splendour In The Grass. He has released music on major labels including Warner Music Australia and Wakaan, and his tracks are regularly played at major festivals by leading bass music artists. Known for high-energy performances and a creative style, ASHEZ brings a refreshing approach to bass music.
Opiuo Tour Dates
May 25 | St. Petersburg, FL | Coastal Creative
May 30 | Calgary, AB | Commonwealth
June 1 | Vancouver, BC | Hollywood Theatre
June 13 | Washington, DC | Soundcheck
June 14 | Richmond, VA | The Broadberry
June 15 | Brooklyn, NY | House Of Yes
June 21 -23 | Flagstaff, AZ | June Jam Solstice Music Festival
June 22 | Santa Fe, NM | Meow Wolf
June 28 | Bellingham, WA | Wild Buffalo House Of Music
July 12 | Dallas, TX | Deep Ellum Art Company
July 13 | Austin, TX | Kingdom
August 22-24 | Baxter, IA | Balance Festival 2024
September 5-8 | Aztec, NM | Unison Festival 2024
October 5| Berkeley, CA | The UC Theatre
OPIUO: INSTAGRAM I SPOTIFY I TWITTER I SOUNDCLOUD I FACEBOOK
ASHEZ: INSTAGRAM I SPOTIFY I TWITTER I SOUNDCLOUD I FACEBOOK
