This Tokyo-based producer has kicked out one of his best productions to date onย More East. Yusuke Nakano, aka Bugseed, has released numerous beat tapes in the past all developed with his own presence of gritty beats and interesting loops. You can find him on many compilations (which I am sure where I first tuned in) like the Wake N’ Bake compilations from Cheeba Cheeba or the prestigious EXPEDItion series from Digital Vinyl. But, you need to check the breadth of his catalog to get a sense of how far he has come. His Soundcraft volumes on Cascade Records are one way to see how Bugseed has developed his productions over a 12 year period. He’s more polished, more thoughtful, and maybe more creative. Cascade said it best with Volume 1. “Bugseed is a faithful and worthy soldier from this time. Showcasing his stuttering spin on hip-hop instrumental, Bugseed demonstrates no shortage of ideas and energy on Soundcraft.”
This latest collection showcases that craft of his sound like so many others in the genre seems to be rooted in skateboard culture. But, Bugseed has a clear style of his own from what you might expect from that simple depiction. More East is filled with melodic beats of the underground from the mysterious back alleys of Chiba. There is something unique about this release with its regional undertones and instruments. One track from this EP-sized release is a perfect portrait of the influences of this island nation. Spot Seek includes many interesting layers that meld into a beautiful thought work all introduced subtly at times to create a well-rounded soundscape. The other tracks on this album also carry this same level of detail and perfection. Well suited for some late night gyoza.
Track Listing:
1. Spiral 02:44
2. One Shot 03:20
3. Spot Seek 01:53
4. Oakland 02:09
5. Sadhana 03:01
6. Time Remembered 01:58
7. Fade Away 01:55
Buy here.
