Jia Lissa
UK electronic music luminary Conducta has officially unveiled details of his forthcoming EP, titled ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’, slated for release on 28th May via Nia Archives’ esteemed Up Ya Archives label. This highly anticipated three-track offering marks a significant artistic evolution for the producer, delving deeper into the high-octane realms of jungle and breakbeat, sounds that have increasingly punctuated his dynamic DJ sets and captivated audiences globally. The lead single, ‘Low Can U Go’, featuring the distinct vocal talents of Jamaican artist BLVK H3RO, has been released concurrently, providing a potent first glimpse into the EP’s energetic and rhythmically complex sonic landscape.
A New Chapter for Conducta: Embracing Jungle and Breakbeat
The announcement of ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’ signals a pivotal moment in Conducta’s already distinguished career. Known primarily as a leading figure in the resurgence and reinvention of UK Garage (UKG) over the past decade, through his influential Kiwi Rekords label and a string of critically acclaimed releases, Conducta (real name Collins Nemi) has consistently demonstrated an acute understanding of UK dance music heritage. This new EP, however, sees him pivot with deliberate intent towards faster tempos, intricate chopped breaks, and the raw energy characteristic of jungle and breakbeat—genres foundational to the UK’s electronic music identity.
This stylistic shift is not entirely unexpected for those who have closely followed Conducta’s recent live performances and DJ mixes. Over the past year, his sets have increasingly incorporated elements that pay homage to the rich tapestry of jungle, drum & bass, and hardcore breakbeat. This exploration culminates in ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’, an EP that, according to early insights, is designed to reflect the exhilarating atmosphere of his contemporary club and festival appearances. The three tracks are poised to showcase his meticulous production prowess, adapting his signature melodic sensibilities and keen ear for groove to a more frenetic rhythmic framework.
The Historical Resonance of "Soundboy" and Jungle’s Revival
The EP’s title, ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’, carries significant cultural weight within the context of sound system culture and reggae, dancehall, and jungle music. A "soundboy" traditionally refers to a DJ or selector operating a sound system, often in competitive "sound clashes" where the aim is to "kill" the opposing sound with superior tracks and lyrical prowess. The term embodies a spirit of bravado, skill, and deep musical knowledge. By adopting this moniker, Conducta not only pays homage to the foundational roots of these genres but also positions himself within a lineage of artists who champion robust, bass-heavy, and rhythmically complex sounds.
The timing of this EP also aligns with a broader resurgence of jungle and breakbeat within the contemporary electronic music scene. Artists like Nia Archives, who herself has been a torchbearer for this revival, along with others such as Sully, Tim Reaper, and Coco Bryce, have brought these genres back to the forefront, introducing them to a new generation of listeners while satisfying long-time aficionados. This renewed interest is driven by a desire for raw energy, intricate rhythmic patterns, and a connection to the rebellious spirit that defined these sounds in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Conducta’s entry into this space is thus not an isolated event but rather a significant contribution to a vibrant and expanding movement. His unique perspective, having honed his craft within the UKG paradigm, promises to infuse the jungle revival with fresh textures and nuanced production.
‘Low Can U Go’: A Fusion of UK Rave and Jamaican Flair
The lead single, ‘Low Can U Go’, serves as the EP’s vibrant calling card, offering an immediate immersion into the project’s sonic ethos. The track is characterized by its high tempo, a hallmark of jungle and classic rave music, and makes heavy use of what Conducta describes as "UK ravey-breakbeats." These are not merely generic breaks; they are meticulously selected and chopped, often with a distinct swing and punch that evokes the golden era of UK hardcore and early jungle. The production features pulsating basslines, intricate percussive layers, and atmospheric synth stabs, all contributing to a sense of urgent, propulsive energy.
Crucially, ‘Low Can U Go’ features the compelling vocal talents of Jamaican artist BLVK H3RO. This collaboration is particularly noteworthy as it bridges the rich vocal traditions of Jamaica with the instrumental dynamism of UK electronic music. BLVK H3RO, known for his versatile delivery and powerful lyrical presence in reggae and dancehall, brings an authentic cultural dimension to the track. His vocals are seamlessly integrated, riding the complex breakbeats with a natural rhythm and commanding presence that elevates the track beyond a mere instrumental workout. This fusion exemplifies the cross-pollination that has historically defined UK dance music, drawing heavily from Caribbean influences to create something entirely new and exciting. The interplay between BLVK H3RO’s vocal cadence and Conducta’s intricate production creates a dialogue between two distinct yet interconnected musical worlds, resulting in a track that is both fiercely energetic and deeply soulful.
Nia Archives and Up Ya Archives: A Platform for Innovation
The decision to release ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’ via Nia Archives’ Up Ya Archives label is a significant endorsement and a testament to the collaborative spirit thriving within the UK’s electronic music community. Nia Archives has rapidly ascended as one of the most exciting and influential voices in contemporary jungle, not only as a producer and DJ but also as a curator and label head. Her own releases, often characterized by their raw emotion, nostalgic sampling, and modern production techniques, have garnered widespread critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase.
Up Ya Archives, launched by Nia Archives as a platform to champion forward-thinking electronic music, particularly within the jungle and drum & bass spectrum, provides an ideal home for Conducta’s new direction. This collaboration underscores a mutual respect and shared artistic vision between two prominent figures who are pushing the boundaries of traditional genre definitions. For Conducta, releasing on Up Ya Archives is a clear statement of his commitment to this new sound and aligns him with a label known for its authenticity and innovative spirit. It signifies an embrace of the contemporary jungle movement, rather than merely dabbling in it. The label’s ethos, which champions raw talent and distinctive sonic identities, makes it a perfect incubator for an EP that seeks to explore new territories while honouring established roots. This partnership not only strengthens both artists’ profiles but also highlights the vibrant ecosystem of independent labels driving innovation in UK dance music.
Conducta’s Evolving Narrative: From UKG Innovator to Genre Alchemist
Conducta’s journey to ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’ has been a continuous narrative of evolution and artistic exploration. His foundational work in UK Garage, particularly through Kiwi Rekords, was instrumental in bringing a new wave of energy and creativity to the genre. He was celebrated for his ability to blend classic UKG tropes with modern production, fostering a vibrant community of artists and helping to redefine the sound for a new generation. His 2020 DJ Mag cover interview, a significant milestone in his career, detailed his vision for UKG, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his aspirations to push the genre forward while maintaining its integrity.
The shift towards jungle and breakbeat, as evidenced by ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’, is a natural progression for an artist who has always been deeply immersed in the broader spectrum of UK bass music. His recent set from DJ Mag HQ, which showcased a more eclectic and energetic selection spanning house, bass, breaks, jungle, and UKG, offered a clear preview of this artistic pivot. In that performance, Conducta demonstrated a masterful ability to weave different genres together, maintaining a cohesive yet dynamic flow that kept the audience engaged. The inclusion of faster tempos and intricate breakbeats in his live sets was not merely an experimental phase but a clear indication of a new direction he was keen to explore in his studio work. This continuous reinvention underscores his status not just as a producer but as a true tastemaker, unafraid to challenge expectations and follow his creative instincts.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
The release of ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’ carries several broader implications for Conducta’s career and the wider electronic music landscape. For Conducta himself, it solidifies his reputation as a versatile and boundary-pushing artist, capable of excelling beyond the genre he is most commonly associated with. This EP is likely to attract new listeners who are drawn to jungle and breakbeat, expanding his audience base while retaining the loyalty of his existing fans who appreciate his commitment to quality production and authentic UK sounds. It also positions him as a significant bridge between the UKG revival and the burgeoning jungle movement, demonstrating the inherent interconnectedness of these genres.
From a broader industry perspective, ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’ contributes to the ongoing narrative of genre fluidity and artistic cross-pollination. In an era where rigid genre boundaries are increasingly dissolving, artists like Conducta exemplify the benefits of drawing inspiration from diverse musical traditions. This EP reinforces the idea that innovation often springs from revisiting and reinterpreting foundational sounds through a contemporary lens. The collaboration with BLVK H3RO further highlights the potential for fruitful cultural exchange, enriching both the electronic music scene and the global soundscape.
Looking ahead, ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’ is likely to set the stage for Conducta’s future projects. It suggests a potential for more jungle and breakbeat-infused releases, perhaps even a full-length album that further explores these territories. His live performances will undoubtedly continue to evolve, with new tracks from the EP becoming staples in his sets. The release on Up Ya Archives also opens doors for potential future collaborations within Nia Archives’ network of artists, fostering an even richer tapestry of sound. Ultimately, ‘SOUNDBOY JOHNNY’ is not just an EP; it is a statement of artistic intent, a celebration of UK dance music heritage, and a powerful indicator of Conducta’s continuing journey as one of the UK’s most dynamic and influential electronic music producers.
