Discussion: Dialogue with Diode - Un filtered Power and Dramatic Turmoil in 'Radial'
In the realm of drum and bass, Diode's unique blend of raw power and cinematic chaos is making waves, both in the UK and across the Atlantic in the US. The American artist's latest offering, the Radial EP, is a testament to this evolving sound.
The Radial EP, Diode's first solo release on VTO Records, is available for streaming on platforms like Beatport and Spotify. A full digital release is scheduled for the 8th of August, 2025. The EP consists of three tracks, each showcasing Diode's signature style that is at once energetic and intriguing.
One of the standout tracks in the EP is Radial Bomb, a lyrical hit that features the Bomb Squad. Another notable inclusion is the re-release of Brain Tag, a track Diode considers fun and important, reflecting his personality. The production across the EP feels deliberately raw and saturated, a testament to Diode's aim to create loud, raw, and gritty music.
Diode's style is more loop-influenced, similar to the days of MTV music Generator, yet he creates his own clips. He chooses FL Studio as his DAW of choice due to its fluid, non-static, and highly editable workflow. This versatility allows Diode to maintain a balance of originality and intrigue, avoiding chasing trends and ensuring his tracks mix well with today's hitters.
The EP's sound is heavily saturated, relentless, and horror-laced, a deliberate nod to Diode's intention to create a sound for Radial that matches Brain Tag from Cells Interlinked Vol 2. This intentionality is evident in Diode's live performances, such as their sets at Austin’s RKR x Rouge event in 2025, where the transatlantic influence and evolution of their sound within the US scene were on full display.
Diode's sound is a continuation of UK drum and bass traditions adapted to the American scene. Influenced by the pioneering UK drum and bass scene, particularly the Bristol sound, Diode's productions and live sets exude a cinematic and raw intensity, often described as dynamic and chaotic, but tightly controlled.
Their association with crews and events like Critical Control Point highlights their integration into the US scene as an influencer and performer who expands the sonic possibilities of drum and bass locally through their intense and cinematic style. Diode's style is more loop-influenced, similar to the days of MTV music Generator, yet he creates his own clips. He chooses FL Studio as his DAW of choice due to its fluid, non-static, and highly editable workflow. This versatility allows Diode to maintain a balance of originality and intrigue, avoiding chasing trends and ensuring his tracks mix well with today's hitters.
In addition to the Radial EP, Diode has collaborations and remixes in the works with Subminderz, Gntlmn, Bad Syntax, Knoxz, Faux Realz, J Augustus, Burner Broa, Inerpois, the Fi5th, Astro, a split release on Dirtbox, and a solo release coming on Warlock Audio, along with dancefloor releases coming on Manifest.
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- The Radial EP, Diode's first solo release, is available for streaming on platforms like Beatport and Spotify, merging technology for digital distribution with entertainment through music.
- Diode's creativity in music production, reminiscent of the MTV music Generator days, combined with his use of FL Studio, exemplifies the intersection of modern technology with the art of music production.
