Whenever Protohype releases a new EP, the collective dubstep universe hits the pause button for a brief moment and takes a deep breath before diving head first into some of the most badass bass music on the block. After big daddy Datsik put out the Encore EP on his label (Firepower Records) last week, dubstep devotees everywhere have lined up to hear what all the fuss is about. Often described as dub-hop, Protohype’s signature sound has undoubtedly resonated with dance music fans from all walks of life. With live performances that rival the energy he crams into every single one of his studio productions, it’s simple to see why this artist’s rapid ascent hasn’t gone unnoticed. Protohype is the truth. Protohype is the future. Protohype is bass music at it’s best.

To get the party popping, Protohype kicks things off with the invigorating “Fight To Hold.” The chaos-causing collaboration featuring vocalist Jeff Sontag makes for quite the opening statement. An interesting note for any fellow Chicagoans, but 12th Planet actually dropped this tune (alongside Protohype) at his Spring Awakening set  in 2013. Granted, the song went under a different alias at the time (“Countdown”) and it didn’t sound nearly as refined as the finalized version, it’s still pretty darn remarkable that it took over a full year for this track to get an official release.

Moving on to the the main course, “Encore” is the type of title track that doesn’t just define an EP, it defines an entire genre. Would you rather let the screeching synths stab your ears to death or allow the brutal bass to beat your body to a complete pulp? Either way, your well-being is definitely in jeopardy. Next up is “Zero,” a no holds barred collaboration with Firepower frontman Datsik. Answering the all-important question of, “how many fucks you give?,” both of these prominent producers send a loud and clear message to all the haters in their mists. The final original song, “Playing With Gold,” takes a team effort from Protohype and the girls from Duelle. Imagine Krewella with a little bit more of a dubstep flare to them, and BOOM, there you have it. To add more enjoyment to an already sensational collection of tunes, Twine steps in on the final track and puts a trap(step) spin on “Encore” that provides the perfect compliment to Protohype’s bevy of dubstep beauties.

Don’t be shy about supporting Protohype, because this is one EP that you cannot afford to live without. Jump on over to Beatport and make your wisest purchase of 2014.

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