The Truth is coming to town

Formed several years ago in Christchurch after a chance encounter with leading English Dubstep DJ and Producer Mala (of Digital Mystikz and DMZ), Truth is New Zealand’s leading international dubstep export. And this Friday, having just survived the biggest New Zealand earthquake in recent history, they are playing an exclusive DJ set at Sandwiches Nightclub to promote the recent release of their debut album Puppets.

What is dubstep though? Well…dubstep is a form of bass focused dance music born in South London in the early 2000’s. Existing directly within the same musical tradition (or lineage) as acid house, happy hardcore, jungle, garage, two-step and grime, dubstep was born from the early bedroom studio efforts of teenaged beatmakers like Skream and Benga, who attempted to emulate the highly musical garage and two-step sounds of the likes of MJ Cole, Wookie and EL-B. Getting certain aspects right, and other aspects completely wrong, they came up with a rhythmically syncopated, sub-bass underpinned sound form, which while melodically muted compared to the artists they wished to write like, presented a whole raft of new possibilities.

Since those halcyon days though, dubstep has spread from a niche culture in South London, to a global phenomena. Along the way it has become huge in New Zealand as well, through the use of dub reggae and jungle/drum and bass sound elements connecting with the younger gig going public to the extent where up to 4,000 people have been seen getting down to the music at major raves (Illuminate Paint Party I see you!).

As I stated before, our leading international dubstep export, Truth made their mark globally through a stellar single entitled ‘The Fatman’. They might not be from South London, but they write the music with an intent which has often seen their sound described as retaining the same vibe as the initial golden era of the music. And if you want to experience this for yourself, you have two options, buy the album, or attend the show. Personally, I suggest you do both.