The Vaults, Cardiff Bay
Fri 26 Oct
As Cardiff’s club scene gears up for another packed autumn, the capital is being graced with one of the best in underground history. Roni Size has been a gamechanger since his beginnings in the 90s, where his Jamaican heritage paired with the influence of Bristol’s infamous nightlife has propelled him into legendary status.
Following a rash of singles which helped to cement an identifiable Bristol drum’n’bass sound, Size founded Reprazent, who just one year after formation, won a Mercury Music Prize with debut album New Forms. Thereafter, he established a new project, Breakbeat Era, while continuing to release solo material that ensured his place as a festival staple. Looking to his latest creations, his collab with Rockwell, Easy, is an exemplary track that combines traditional dubs with a fierce contemporary flare. With Size’s influence being one of the most respected in UK drum’n’bass, his sets have evolved into being revered for his balancing old school classics of both d’n’b laced with current tracks that make for eclectic sets.
Vaults itself is one of Cardiff’s most unique spaces, where delving underground makes its events a truly submersive experience. Formerly a bank vault, the space is a grungy haven for those who completely want to lose their inhibitions. Accompanying Roni comes a stacked line up, with support from Ransom, Mascot, Beenson and Lubi J, while room 2 will be taken over by Cardiff native bassline organisers Got Bass.
Size’s ability to produce sets that encompass generational love for the genre is extraordinary. If you haven’t seen him before, his passion for the music is a spectacular performance that shouldn’t be missed. With being such a predominant figure in the scene, the night will not only be a celebration of his everlasting career, but it’s a 9-5 worth booking in the calendar. FFION RIORDAN-JONES
Tickets: £14. Info: www.vaultspresents.com