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DIODE: A Journey Through Drum and Bass Evolution
Drum and bass powerhouse Diode has been a defining force in the scene for nearly two decades. Known for his dark, high-energy tracks and relentless drive to evolve, his upcoming release featuring the tracks “Nightmare Creatures” and “Bitcrush” promises to push the boundaries of the genre once again. In this exclusive interview, we dive deep into his journey, inspirations, creative process, and the energy fuelling his latest creations.
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Release Details
- Beatport Exclusive Release Date: January 31st 2025
- Worldwide Release Date: February 14th 2025
- Tracks:
- Diode – Nightmare Creatures
- Diode – Bitcrush
From Breakdancing to Basslines
Diode’s music journey began in an unexpected place: the dancefloor. Starting as a breakdancer known as StyleLord, his transition into music production began during the days of MTV Music Generator, crafting breaks and trance tracks under the alias SounDesign. But everything changed when he heard Panacea’s “King of the Jungle” at a local drum and bass event.
“That track hooked me,” Diode reflects. “Shortly after, I started producing drum and bass and adopted the name Diode, suggested by a friend. It stuck.”
The Evolution of Diode’s Sound
How would you describe your sound to someone who’s never heard your music before?
I’d say it’s a mix of dark jump-up and techstep. It’s fast, heavy, and gritty with basslines that hit hard and keep the energy high. I use the stab/chop method for a fast-paced feel, but I’m constantly evolving, focusing on engineering and efficiency.
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Who are your biggest influences in drum and bass?
When I began I would say Pendulum, Panacea, and Noisia were my most influential and yes that’s changed. As the scene grows I’m no influenced by he who makes the dirty sound clean. Producers like Mefjus, Teddy Killerz, Bou, Basstripper, Chase and Status influence me. then those in the underground who make music and share ideas, wips, and techniques are people who I look up to a ton. Korax, J August, Subminderz, FauxRealz, Noisesmith, Kathy Rev, Bad Syntax and the twitch crew fuel me. They make production a lot less lonely and the feedback or even listening to their new ideas pumps me up.
Unleashing “Nightmare Creatures” and “Bitcrush”
Tell us about “Nightmare Creatures”—what inspired this track?
ENERGY! This track is all about adrenaline. Picture speeding down the road chasing shadow demons with blind shades, laser machetes, and Knight Rider’s KITT. The cinematic sample adds a fun twist—it’s pure chaos, but in a controlled way.
And what about “Bitcrush”?
It’s gritty and raw, designed for easy double drops in a set. I kept the bassline intentionally raw to match the crushed aesthetic. It’s a simple but powerful track that pairs perfectly with a bootleg I’m working on—stay tuned for that!
The Tracks
![diode, nightmare creatures album cover](https://stonxmusic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Cover-smol.png)
1 Diode – Nightmare Creatures:
Prepare yourself for a relentlessly aggressive groove in “Nightmare Creatures.” The track opens with a haunting vocal sample that chants “nightmare creatures,” before plunging into a punishing drop. Driving basslines, razor-sharp drums, and ominous textures create an unyielding energy that grips the listener and refuses to let go. It’s a masterclass in raw, industrial-tinged neurofunk.
2 Diode – Bitcrush:
“Bitcrush” begins with a hypnotic arpeggio filtering into focus, layered with tension-building drums. Just as the atmosphere becomes ethereal and open, a devastating bassline tears through the mix. The drop hits with anvil-like snares, screeching leads, chopped vocals, and an onslaught of energy that’s quintessentially DIODE. The interplay between airy melodies and ferocious grooves keeps the listener entranced from start to finish.
Connecting Through Streaming
When Diode isn’t in the studio, you’ll often find him hosting “Let Me DNB” every Wednesday at 9 PM EST on Twitch. Streaming, he says, is as much a part of his creative process as production.
“Streaming hypes me up,” he shares. “It’s why I do it. My audience isn’t just fans—they’re friends. Twitch makes production a lot less lonely, and the feedback helps me grow.”
What’s Next for Diode?
What can fans expect from you in the future?
I’ve got a lot of exciting projects lined up—releases on VTO Records and BrainRave, plus collaborations with FauxRealz, Korax, and Noisesmith. My goal is to release more EPs, DJ live, and keep learning. Feed me your knowledge, people!
Any advice for up-and-coming producers?
Keep pushing, keep learning, and don’t let setbacks stop you. And remember—help each other out. The sun will shine for everyone if you let it.
“I’m constantly learning, pushing myself to be more efficient, and making music that reflects the energy I want to feel.”
Diode
As Diode gears up for the release of “Nightmare Creatures” and “Bitcrush,” his passion and dedication to drum and bass remain stronger than ever. Follow Diode on Instagram and visit his website to stay updated on his journey.
For more updates, keep an eye on our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages.
Pre-save and Pre-order here: https://cygnusmusic.link/kxeo1mn
Follow Diode: Soundcloud > Instagram
Words by STONX and Stonx Music Co – Founder Ollie Barron