donsurf, last nubian: dreamer
Francisco Espregueira
The UK underground is, as we know, always and forever alive and well. Our latest favorite project is Dreamer, a fresh collaborative project from the groove-heavy Don Surf and South London's Last Nubian. Amassed over a few years of casual studio link-ups, this self-released EP is a candid snapshot of the sonic space both producers currently occupy. They effortlessly weave through house, bruk, samba, and garage, creating a sound that feels distinctly British yet globally inspired. Last Nubian (real name Tre Wright) has already been making serious noise with his jazz-inflected broken beat releases on respected labels like Eglo and Tiff's Joints. Meanwhile, Don Surf brings his signature slick, UK funky and electronic deepness to the fold. Together, they blend their distinct influences into a musical journey that feels incredibly organic and relaxed.
“Feel Someway” eases you in with a steady groove before flipping expectations, Henry Weekes’ flute gliding over drums that subtly shift under your feet. Thandiwe’s debut vocal drifts in like a faded postcard. “Shining” brings Achanté back into the fold, her touch riding Latin-tinged percussion and soft modal keys. The title cut, crafted by Last Nubian alone, is all warm subs and hazy vocal fragments—pure club meditation. Then Don Surf reworks it with low-end menace, stripping it back and rebuilding it with dubwise intent. Across Dreamer, the duo sketch a candid portrait of their shared space: soulful, rhythmic, and unafraid to bend genres until they blur. Available via Bandcamp.