Beginning life as a duo in the early-00s, the creative direction of Crazy Cousinz now falls squarely on the shoulders of Luke "Flukes" Reid. Even if you weren't there at in UK funky's heyday, you will definitely know their huge hit with Kyla, "Do You Mind", and the sample that birthed Drake's hit "One Dance". But that was just the tip of the iceberg—"Bongo Jam", "Funky Anthem" and "It's That Funky" are still absolutely guaranteed to tear up any rave.
Though he's revered in the scene as a legend, an originator even, Crazy Cousinz is still in the vanguard of UK club music. Case in point: his latest single "No Way" with Yxng Bane and Mr. Eazi. The Crazy Cousinz funky sound is still plain to hear on his newer productions, but with the current surge in the popularity of Afrobeats—a sound that was pivotal in the shaping of UK funky—now is the perfect time for him to return.
Tell us a bit about your selections in this mix.
This mix includes some of the sounds which have heavily influenced and sculpted my DJ sets over the past few months. You'll hear them infectiously playing at festivals, clubs and practically anywhere a crowd loves a bit of filthy bass.
What was the one track you absolutely had to include?
The level of productions, mix-downs and mastering is incredible so it's hard to differentiate—but it has to be "The Groovy Cat". Only a handful of producers can get away with making the Pink Panther sample sound dope, especially in a tech-house record, and PAWSA is one of those producers. Absolute banger!
Any tracks that narrowly missed the cut?
Nope. I made sure I came fully prepared with this power mix. This is Complex Sessions!
What's the first single or album you ever bought?
Ah! It would've been Wiley's "Eskimo", on white label. Classic grime! I remember saving up school pocket money to travel to Transition Records in Lewisham every Friday. The struggle to buy vinyl at that age was real! Exciting times, nevertheless.
What's the last physical record you bought?
I bought J Dilla's Donuts and Roy Ayers' Ubiquity albums on vinyl. Perfect chill-out music.
What do you want to see happen musically over the next 12 months?
I'd like to see relatively unknown talented musicians get the recognition they deserve. The music scene is extremely crowded. It's harder than ever to stand out so I'd like to see more done to encourage independent artists to get out there.
What trend or scene absolutely needs to die right now?
Its difficult to say; it's a matter of opinion and perception. Life is too short to focus on negative aspects. However, off subject, those see-through squid-like shoes all these Instagram girls are wearing has got to go! Yeah, you know the ones. Keep those in the wardrobe! [Laughs]
Tracklist:
1. Le Duke - "Jam Hot"
2. Crazy Cousinz - "You Got Me"
3. PAWSA - "The Groovy Cat"
4. The Heatwave - "Walk Out Gyal" (Weaver Bros Remix)
5. Gorgon City - "Grooves On The Vinyl"
6. Chris Lorenzo - "My Own"
7. Billy Kenny - "Work"
8. Guille Placencia & George Privatti - "What A Bam"
9. Jessie Ware - "Alone" (Toddla T Remix)
10. Gregor Salto & Kuenta - "Otro Dia" (Alex Guesta Remix)
11. Chris Lorenzo - "Moggy"
12. VERSUS - "Keep On"
13. ANOTR - "Let Me Tell You"
