Bass Music Acts to Watch Out for in 2025
We’re listing some artists across the bass music spectrum who should definitely be on your radar in 2025, featuring Azotix, UKato, Gifta, WOST, and more. 2024 has been an incredible year for bass music, a genre that continues to evolve and cement its place as one of the most dynamic and sought-after communities in the…
We’re listing some artists across the bass music spectrum who should definitely be on your radar in 2025, featuring Azotix, UKato, Gifta, WOST, and more.
2024 has been an incredible year for bass music, a genre that continues to evolve and cement its place as one of the most dynamic and sought-after communities in the dance music scene. From underground venues to festival main stages, every facet of bass music has seen remarkable growth, both in its sound and its global reach. Whether it’s gritty underground tracks or polished festival anthems, bass music is proving its versatility and undeniable appeal.
What makes this growth truly special is the steady influx of groundbreaking talent that comes through every year. Each year, new artists emerge, bringing fresh perspectives, innovative sounds, and boundless energy. These newcomers fuel the genre’s evolution, challenging the status quo and ensuring that bass music remains at the cutting edge of electronic music. Looking at 2024, it’s clear that many of the acts we anticipated to break through have done just that. They’ve taken their craft to new heights, earning widespread recognition and carving their own paths in the scene.
With so much happening, it’s the perfect time to highlight the acts we believe will be at the forefront in the year ahead. These are the names you’ll be hearing a lot more of soon—the innovators, risk-takers, and game-changers who are set to make waves in the ever-expanding world of bass music.
AZOTIX
Nearly two years after his full debut on Overview Music, the Romanian drum & bass prodigy Azotix shows no signs of slowing down. Known for his signature deep and laidback sound, he has made his mark on labels like Overview Music, Critical Music, The North Quarter and Vandal Records, among others. Despite an impressive catalog that fully embodies his unique style, it feels like Azotix is only just getting started.
As he continues to build momentum, all signs point to 2025 being another big year for Azotix. With his consistent output, growing influence, and an ever-expanding audience, it feels inevitable that he will soon establish himself as one of the key players in the drum & bass underground. If his trajectory so far is anything to go by, the future of Azotix promises not just more music but a deeper impact on the genre he’s helping to shape.
LYLY
If LYLY is planning to drop more music this year, it’s not just likely—it’s inevitable that he’ll redefine the boundaries of drum & bass and jungle. The Belgian producer has already proven his ability to push the envelope with last year’s ‘Fragments’ EP, released on the Czech drum & bass label Sinful Maze. This debut wasn’t just an introduction; it was a masterclass in innovation. The EP married leftfield experimentation with vocal-driven tracks and high-energy dancefloor appeal, resulting in one of the most forward-thinking and impactful releases of the year.
With a penchant for risk-taking and a relentless drive to innovate, 2025 feels like the year LYLY will fully ascend. LYLY’s ability to balance avant-garde elements with accessible grooves speaks to his deep understanding of the genre’s roots while confidently pushing it into uncharted territory, which makes him one act to keep a keen eye on in 2025.
WOST
After delivering one of the most iconic dance anthems of 2023, the Venezuelan luminary WOST, now based in Medellín, has swiftly ascended from a rising force in Latin America to a global phenomenon. In just under eighteen months since the release of his breakout track, ‘Calentura Vaginal (Hard Drum Edit),’ WOST has captured the attention of the global dance music scene.
WOST’s signature style is a seamless fusion of diverse influences—UK Bass, reggaetón, house, and beyond. His 2024 output was nothing short of extraordinary, with funk-driven, bouncy releases that kept the energy high and the vibes unmistakably Latin. Not only did his tracks dominate playlists, but his dynamic performances behind the decks showcased his ability to channel his deep-rooted Latin influences into unforgettable DJ sets. WOST’s shows weren’t just about the music—they were cultural celebrations, vibrant and unrelenting in their energy.
Heading into 2025, WOST seems to be all geared up with his club anthems that are set to solidify his position as a trailblazer in cutting-edge dance music, all while staying true to his distinct Latin-infused style.
UKATO
One of India’s brightest drum & bass talents, UKato, has been on an unstoppable trajectory since his debut on the legendary RAM Records back in 2022. His breakout track, ‘Delhi Shuffler,’ marked a pivotal moment for bass music in India, putting the country on the global drum & bass map. However, UKato’s defining moment came in 2024 when he officially remixed the Dutch drum & bass titans Noisia, alongside Noizbleed. This milestone not only showcased his production prowess but also solidified his status as a key player in the international drum & bass community.
What sets UKato apart is his ability to push the boundaries of drum & bass beyond its traditional confines, blending it seamlessly with other genres and scenes, particularly within Indian music. His versatility was on full display last year with collaborations that bridged gaps between drum & bass, hip-hop, and pop. Teaming up with Indian hip-hop superstar King and the iconic Desi rapper Raga, UKato injected his signature style into ‘Orange Pepsi’ alongside Bharg Kale.
As 2025 unfolds, all eyes are on UKato to see how he continues to build on this incredible momentum. With his innovative spirit, growing fanbase, and unyielding passion for the scene he loves, UKato is poised to make this year yet another landmark for himself and for the burgeoning drum & bass culture in India.
SOUL MASS TRANSIT SYSTEM
The dynamic UK-based act is making some serious moves with his fresh take on UK garage and bassline. Specializing in crafting tracks that fuse the classic sounds of the UK underground scene with contemporary production techniques, Soul Mass Transit System creates music that resonates across club culture while paying homage to the roots of the genre.
Pushing the sound characterized by skippy 2-step rhythms, groovy basslines, lush pads, and chopped-up vocal samples, Soul Mass Transit System embodies the essence of garage music with a modern twist. Over the year, he has released music on several respected labels, including Shall Not Fade, Time Is Now, and Warehouse Rave, earning him widespread acclaim for his ability to capture the nostalgic vibes of the early 2000s garage scene while keeping things fresh and forward-thinking.
2024 saw him return to Shall Not Fade while delivering memorable performances across the length and breadth of the UK, USA, Europe and down under. It was a year of growth and increased visibility for Soul Mass Transit System, as he continued to influence the UK garage and bassline genres through both his productions and live sets; and when a man like Hamdi says Soul Mass Transit System is about to have a big year, you better pay attention.
GIFTA
Gifta is a name that embodies the true essence of the drum & bass underground community. Known for her unwavering dedication to pushing her own brand of ‘Skatimal’ drum & bass, she has not only made waves as a DJ and producer but has also become a prominent figure in fostering a supportive, inclusive environment for emerging talent. Through her Phase Records label, Gifta champions artists she genuinely believes in, providing them with a platform to showcase their work and thrive. Her commitment to the scene goes beyond just releasing music; she’s deeply involved in promoting events, organizing community initiatives, and creating a space where artists and fans alike can connect and grow together.
Her tireless work ethic and natural leadership skills have earned her respect from across the genre. Gifta’s approach to the music she creates and the community she nurtures reflects her desire to elevate drum & bass to new heights while staying true to its roots.
In 2024, Gifta continued to deliver a steady stream of impactful releases that exemplified the ‘Skatimal’ style she’s known for—tracks filled with raw energy, intricate beats, and heavy basslines. But what truly sets her apart is the way she goes above and beyond the DJ booth and studio. Her influence stretches far beyond her own productions; she is a mentor, an advocate, and a driving force in the drum & bass community. Her label, Phase Records, serves as a beacon for emerging talent and a symbol of her dedication to the future of the genre.
In the new year, we can expect a fresh wave of music that further refines her unique sound, along with new artists under the Phase Records banner continuing to make their mark. The future is bright for Gifta, and the scene she so passionately supports will undoubtedly continue to flourish under her influence.
STONES TARO
A key contributor to Japan’s burgeoning bass music landscape, Stones Taro has been known for his dynamic contributions to electronic music, particularly within the realms of house, UK garage, breakbeats, and jungle since 2014. Since embarking on his sonic journey a decade ago, Stones Taro has become a prominent figure in the Kyoto music community, consistently delivering tracks that blend rhythmic precision with melodic depth.
Taro’s productions are deeply influenced by the vibrant sounds of ’90s UK dance music, including house, UK garage, and jungle. He is particularly drawn to the innovative beat programming and experimental bass sounds characteristic of UK garage, as well as the revolutionary rhythms of jungle music. In addition to his solo work, Taro co-founded the label NC4K with fellow artist Lomax. The label focuses on releasing music that embodies their love for classic ’90s house and UK dance music, aiming to create tracks that are both innovative and danceable
In 2024, the Kyoto-based DJ and producer continued to make significant contributions to the electronic music scene with several notable releases like ‘Anywhere Dub,’ the ‘Dwellers Of The Seabed’ LP, and the ‘Clutch’ EP which exemplifies Stones Taro’s dynamic style, blending elements of UK garage and breakbeat.
Given his history of engaging releases and collaborations, it’s reasonable to expect that he will continue his consistent output and contribute to the electronic music landscape in the coming year with fresher styles and perspectives.
This is just a small selection of the many promising and exciting artists emerging from the vast pool of talent that we can expect to make waves in 2025. From innovative producers to boundary-pushing DJs, the bass music scene is brimming with fresh ideas and evolving sounds. It’s an exhilarating time for fans of the genre, as we’re on the brink of witnessing an explosion of creativity that blends influences from all corners of the music world.
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