Excision, the Canadian dubstep DJ and producer known for his aggressive drops and grimy soundscapes, has carved a significant niche in the world of bass music. But his influence extends beyond the stage – his record label, Rottun Recordings (formerly known as Rottun Records), has become a breeding ground for some of the genre’s most innovative and exciting artists. This review explores the inner workings of Excision’s label, examining its history, artist roster, and overall impact on the bass music scene.
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From Humble Beginnings to a Bass Music Powerhouse
Founded in 2006, Rottun Recordings started as a platform for Excision and his long-time collaborator Downlink to release their own productions. Early releases like Excision’s iconic “Nuke Them All” and “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Rockstar” showcased the label’s signature sound: high-octane dubstep with a focus on intricate sound design, pummeling basslines, and in-your-face energy. These releases quickly found favor with a growing legion of bass music fans, establishing Rottun as a label to watch.
Building a Diverse Roster of Bass Royalty
Excision’s Rottun Recordings isn’t just about showcasing his own thunderous soundscapes. It’s become a breeding ground for some of the most diverse and exciting artists in bass music. This dedication to a multifaceted roster is a key ingredient in the label’s success. Here’s how Rottun cultivates its “bass royalty”:
- Beyond the Dubstep: Embracing Genre-Bending Talent The Rottun sound isn’t confined to a single style. While undeniably rooted in dubstep, Excision actively seeks out artists who push the boundaries of the genre. The label features artists like Datsik, who injects elements of metal into his productions, and Kill the Noise, known for his glitchy, electro-infused bass music. This willingness to embrace diverse styles keeps the label’s sound fresh and attracts fans with different sonic preferences within the broad spectrum of bass music;
- Breaking the Mold: Spotlighting Established and Underdog Talent Rottun doesn’t just chase big names. The label champions both established bass music veterans and up-and-coming producers. Artists like Barely Alive bring years of experience and a loyal fanbase to the table, while acts like Dion Timmer and Wooli represent the cutting edge of the genre. This blend of experience and raw talent ensures a continuous flow of innovative music and caters to fans who crave both familiar favorites and the thrill of discovering new sounds;
- Collaborative Spirit: Fostering Synergy Within the Bass Nation. Rottun understands the power of collaboration. The label frequently facilitates projects between its artists, leading to exciting cross-pollination of ideas. Imagine a track with Sullivan King’s signature Viking metal aesthetics infused with Virtual Riot’s mind-bending breakbeat expertise – that’s the kind of sonic alchemy Rottun fosters. This collaborative spirit not only pushes creative boundaries but also strengthens the sense of community within the label and the Bass Nation as a whole;
- A Platform for Expression: Prioritizing Artistic Vision. Rottun doesn’t impose a rigid formula on its artists. Excision and his team prioritize artistic vision, allowing each artist to explore their unique sound and experiment with new ideas. This results in a vibrant tapestry of styles within the label, ensuring that every release feels fresh and authentic. Fans know that when they see the Rottun logo, they’re in for a unique bass music experience, not a cookie-cutter formula;
- The Future of Bass Royalty: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Stars. Rottun’s commitment to diversity extends beyond its current roster. The label actively seeks out and nurtures up-and-coming bass music producers. Through initiatives like demo submissions and artist development programs, Rottun identifies talented individuals and provides them with the resources and support to help them develop their craft and reach a wider audience. This ensures a steady stream of fresh talent for the label and secures the future of the “bass royalty” lineage.
By embracing diversity, Rottun Recordings has created a vibrant and exciting ecosystem for bass music. The label’s commitment to showcasing a wide range of styles, nurturing both established and emerging artists, and prioritizing artistic freedom has cemented its position as a leader in the genre.
More Than Just Drops: Artist Development and Support
Beyond simply releasing music, Excision and his team at Rottun (now rebranded as Rottun Recordings) prioritize artist development. They offer production mentorship, tour support, and a platform for up-and-coming producers to showcase their work. This commitment to fostering talent has helped launch the careers of many of today’s most popular bass music artists. Acts like Dion Timmer, Virtual Riot, and Wooli all credit Rottun for giving them their early breaks and nurturing their creative vision.
A Label for the Fans: Community Engagement and the “Bass Nation”
Excision understands that a thriving label hinges on a passionate fanbase. He’s cultivated a dedicated community of fans known as the “Bass Nation” through several key strategies:
- Social Media Domination: Rottun leverages social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to keep fans engaged. Exclusive content like behind-the-scenes studio glimpses, artist interviews, and sneak peeks at upcoming releases fuel excitement and anticipation. Interactive elements like polls and Q&A sessions foster a sense of connection between fans and artists;
- Interactive Livestreams: The rise of livestreaming platforms like Twitch has opened new avenues for artist engagement. Rottun capitalizes on this by hosting live DJ sets, production masterclasses, and interactive Q&A sessions with its artists. This allows fans to see their favorite artists in a more intimate setting and directly interact with them, strengthening the bond between artist and fan;
- Large-Scale Events: Cultivating the “Bass Nation” Experience: Rottun goes beyond the digital realm to create real-world experiences for the Bass Nation. Events like the label’s flagship festival “Lost Lands” offer fans a chance to immerse themselves in the music, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and witness Rottun artists perform live. These events solidify the sense of community and shared passion that defines the Bass Nation;
- Fan-Centric Merchandise: Rottun understands the power of merchandise in fostering fan loyalty. They offer high-quality, label-branded apparel and accessories that allow fans to proudly represent their love for the label and its artists. Limited edition merchandise further fuels fan excitement and create a sense of exclusivity within the Bass Nation.
By nurturing an engaged and vibrant community, Rottun Recordings fosters a powerful sense of loyalty amongst its fanbase. This not only translates to consistent support for established artists but also fuels excitement for up-and-coming talent within the label.
Impact on the Genre: Pushing Boundaries and Breaking Barriers
Rottun’s influence on bass music cannot be understated. The label has helped to popularize the genre, taking it from underground rave scenes to mainstream recognition. Excision’s dedication to pushing boundaries in sound design, production techniques, and visual aesthetics has inspired a new generation of bass music producers. Rottun’s willingness to embrace different styles and sounds within the genre has also helped to broaden the appeal of bass music, attracting new fans and ensuring continued growth and evolution.
A Look Ahead: The Future of Rottun Recordings
Excision’s Rottun Recordings has established itself as a powerhouse in the bass music scene. But what does the future hold for this innovative label? Here are some exciting possibilities to consider:
- Genre-Bending Collaborations: Rottun could push boundaries even further by fostering collaborations between its bass music artists and producers from other electronic genres, like techno or house. This could lead to fresh and unexpected sounds, further expanding the label’s appeal;
- The Rise of the Livestream: Live Streaming platforms like Twitch have become a powerful tool for artist engagement. Rottun could leverage this by hosting exclusive events and production masterclasses featuring its artists, fostering a deeper connection with fans and nurturing new talent;
- The Metaverse & Virtual Concerts: The burgeoning metaverse presents exciting opportunities for labels like Rottun. Imagine interactive virtual concerts featuring Rottun artists, allowing fans to experience the music in a whole new way;
- Focus on Sustainability: As environmental consciousness grows, Rottun could champion sustainable practices within the music industry. This could involve eco-friendly merchandise production, carbon-neutral touring initiatives, and raising awareness of environmental issues within the bass music community;
- Breaking Barriers Beyond Genre: Rottun’s diverse roster positions it to bridge the gap between bass music and other musical cultures. Imagine collaborations with international artists or incorporating global sounds into the label’s productions, further enriching the bass music landscape.
By embracing these possibilities, Rottun Recordings can solidify its position as a leader in bass music innovation. The label’s commitment to pushing boundaries, nurturing talent, and engaging its fanbase ensures its continued relevance in the ever-evolving world of electronic music.
Conclusion
Excision’s Rottun Recordings has carved a unique and impactful path in the world of bass music. It’s more than just a platform for Excision’s own music; it’s a breeding ground for innovation, a champion for emerging talent, and a dedicated community builder. The label’s commitment to pushing boundaries in sound design, artist development, and fan engagement has propelled both established artists and new voices to the forefront of the genre. As Rottun Recordings continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: it will continue to be a driving force in shaping the future of bass music.