V.I.V.E.K is a London dubstep and electronic music producer and DJ associated with deep, bass-heavy dub sounds. He begins building music in 2004, moving from DJing into production, and works with tempos around 140 BPM after first making tracks at 170 tempo. His sound draws on the “golden years” of drum and bass, alongside dub and roots music.

Early releases and development

V.I.V.E.K first releases a 12-inch on On the Edge. Fellow producer Silkie passes a CD of V.I.V.E.K’s productions to Mala, leading to his first release for the Deep Medi / DMZ camp, Kulture / Meditation Rock, in 2009. That record helps establish his reputation in the 140 BPM scene, followed by sought-after dubplates and a concentrated run of releases.

Style and support

His music is described as precise and subterranean in feel, with a strong emphasis on sound system impact. DJs including Mala, Youngsta, N-Type, Mary Anne Hobbs, Skream, Distance, Gilles Peterson, Mistajam, Nihal of BBC Radio 1, and Anti Social champion his work.

Key releases and performances

The Feel It EP marks a high point in this period, presenting four tracks together with an accompanying mix session CD. It helps solidify his standing as a notable figure in deep dubstep. He also becomes a regular DJ on DMZ and Deep Medi nights, including sets at the DMZ 6th birthday celebrations in London and Amsterdam. An Eyes Down EP is also scheduled for Deep Medi in 2011.

Labels

V.I.V.E.K releases music on System Music and VIVEK, and is closely linked with Mala’s Deep Medi imprint.