Canadian duo Hooks and DC, also known as Zeds Dead, absolutely killed the game in 2012.  They produced three EPs: "Adrenaline", “Victor” and “The Living Dead” - all of which have become staples in every basshead's iTunes library.  Now, they're back again with an eclectic set of five tracks - their most daring project to date.  

Demons

The first track off the Hot Sauce EP features the classic darkness that Zeds Dead personifies throughout their music, which is accompished with an eerie piano loop and classic horror film samples galore.  Reminicent of Zeds Dead's glitch-hop EP “Victor”, Demons is a great opener for their new EP.

Mr. Sub

Track number two takes a minimal approach to the burgeoning genre of future garage.  It's swift beat, underscored by an unrelenting bassline, is complimented by numerous glitches and a shuffling tribal rhythm. Making Mr. Sub the perfect example of Zeds Dead's versatile abilities in the studio. 

Playa

Playa is my personal favorite off the Hot Sauce EP.  This song is like nothing I've ever heard before.  It features hip-hop vocal samples combined with cleverly-placed symbols and siren sounds that create a chill moombahton  vibe.  However, Playa is so diverse, its exact genre is difficult to nail down - I just know it's a jam.  

Rave

An appropriately titled track, Rave reminds me of the dance music that was being played in the 90's rave scene, an ambience set by its cool, cleanly separated synths. Zeds Dead's first official shot at breakbeat, Rave shares many elements with drum & bass, but it is also completed with wobbles, unique lazers and - of course - plenty of bass.

Trouble

Taking us back to their glitch-hop style of last year, Zeds Dead picked the right song to close out their Hot Sauce EP.  Trouble is built around a strong, yet simple piano loop and a steadily persisting drum beat.  Providing that signature flavor DC and Hooks bring to the table, but with new and interesting twists.

Overall, the Hotsauce EP lives up to its name. The genre-exploring EP delivers the same riotous energy that Zeds Dead is known for, but this time - they mixed it up and tried some new things. With four genres covered in five tracks, breaking out of the box is a good thing, and artists are finally starting to accept it.

Beatport: Zeds Dead - "Hot Sauce EP"