Insomniac, a global leader in the electronic music scene, has announced the launch of its newest label, BREAK ROOM, under the Insomniac Music Group umbrella. BREAK ROOM is set to become a go-to destination for bass music enthusiasts, focusing on trap, hardwave, and experimental bass that challenges the norms and pushes the boundaries of sound. It promises to be a sonic refuge for fans seeking bold, unruly tracks that break free from monotony.
Hex Cougar & VARI Set the Tone with “Ultra”
The label’s inaugural release comes from the dynamic duo of Hex Cougar, a Los Angeles-based producer known for fusing beauty with an edge, and VARI, a genre-blurring artist from Tulsa recognized for his skillful sound design. Their collaboration, “Ultra,” serves as the first track from Hex Cougar’s forthcoming EP on Break Room. It’s a powerful hardwave offering driven by a distorted, moody vocal hook, frenetic drums, futuristic melodies, bombastic low-end, and raucous synth leads that create a constant sense of movement and energy.
Hex Cougar is no stranger to industry recognition, having garnered support from heavyweights such as RL Grime, Alison Wonderland, Illenium, Diplo, Skrillex, Porter Robinson, and more. His latest release, the 16-track ‘Alter/Ego Volume III’ compilation, debuted on his label, Alter/Ego, further cementing his status as a leader in the genre.
Creative Synergy
The collaboration between Hex Cougar and VARI began in 2023 when VARI sent Hex the initial idea for “Ultra.” Speaking on the project, Hex Cougar explains, “VARI sent me the original idea, and I was immediately hooked by the chords and melodies—it had a nostalgic, almost Nero-esque vibe. I reworked the drop to give it a heavier, anthemic feel and added a breakbeat drum loop behind the main trap drums for a sense of constant flow and movement. It was one of the most natural, easy tracks to finish, and it’s probably one of my favorite tracks to date. It’s loud, euphoric, aggressive, and symbolizes me falling back in love with heavy electronic music after a long break.”
VARI adds, “Hex took my demo and turned the energy up to 11. We went back and forth refining the track, and I think we found the perfect balance between heavy, glitchy beats and the melodic, ethereal aesthetic we’re both known for.”
The Future of BREAK ROOM
With its first release, BREAK ROOM has made a bold statement, promising to be a label that not only embraces bass music but also celebrates the genre’s potential for innovation and experimentation. “Ultra” by Hex Cougar and VARI sets the stage for what’s to come from this exciting new imprint. Expect BREAK ROOM to be a hub for fans who want to escape the ordinary and dive into the cutting-edge sounds of bass music’s future.
Hex Cougar & VARI – “Ultra” is out now via Break Room.
HEX COUGAR: Instagram | Facebook | X | Spotify
VARI: Instagram | Facebook | X | Spotify
INSOMNIAC RECORDS: Instagram | X | Facebook | Website
