Heard It Here First

The versatile duo known as MLOTIK and Denver-based artist ZLEN have combined forces once again to bring fans the first edition of a two-part downtempo EP series, Ghost Room Vol. I is out now on Street Ritual.

Known for adding their own flavor to a wide variety of sub-genres, the MLOTIK boys have caught the attention of the underground bass community within the last couple of years. Having released several singles on the Spicy Bois label, it’s clear to see why this duo is a force to be reckoned with.

Prior to this downtempo EP, they gave fans a taste of just how far their sound can expand with the release of a four-track drum n bass EP on Ganja White Night‘s SubCarbon Records. Having supported rising stars such as Ravenscoon earlier this year, MLOTIK is gearing up to play more and more shows this Summer. Of particular noteworthiness, fans will be able to catch them throw down at the second edition of Interstellar Music Festival this August in Kentucky, with headliners that include Seven Lions, Zeds Dead, and Ganja White Night.

ZLEN is a name that rightfully deserves some more attention. Similar to the MLOTIK boys, ZLEN is a wickedly talented producer who has actually collaborated with the aforementioned duo several times. Having also appeared on Spicy Bois and SubCarbon Records, in addition to The Untz, Wavecraft Collective, and several other underground labels, it’s clear that ZLEN is ready to crank things up a notch. This is certainly a name to check out and pay more attention to moving forward.

Ghost Room Vol. I is a clinic in modern downtempo music. The spellbinding yet intrinsic qualities of this four-track project will certainly keep listeners coming back again and again. Starting with the first track, “Calypso”, we are quickly introduced to a new world that surrounds us with gritty textures and foley, peaceful plucks, and deep basslines that perfectly kick off the EP. This builds into more of a groovy flow about halfway through the track, featuring some out-of-this-world sound design that keeps listeners on their toes throughout.

Moving into the second track, “Session 626”, MLOTIK and ZLEN decide to turn the energy up with a heavy, heart-pounding flow featuring hard-hitting kicks and impeccable, organic basses. This one, in particular, blew me away, catapulting me out of my seat and making me feel as if I was witnessing a tug-of-war battle between the outer regions of space and the deepest, unexplored parts of nature here on Earth.

When we get to the third track, “Iota Draconis”, we have a chance to catch our breath with a beautiful combination of ethereal sounds and dark imagery. The drum break’s flow in the second half of the track really compliments the powerful reese bass that lays underneath.

This leads us into the fourth and final track, “Sundae Driver”, a peaceful outro that gives us the feeling we have completed the first part of a two-part mission. Having now properly ascended, MLOTIK and ZLEN leave us with a hopeful message through their sounds, getting us excited for what’s to come in the second part of this intergalactic downtempo adventure.

What did you think of the Ghost Room Vol. I EP by MLOTIK and ZLEN? Let us know in the comments below or on our social media! Be sure to show them love on socials, as well!

Support MLOTIK on Socials: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Spotify

Support ZLEN on Socials: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Spotify

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