TNAM.UK X JUST FOR FUN
28 March 2026
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Bassline, somewhat predictably, lends its name to the distinctive bass that throbs under tracks. It induces a face-crumpling phenomenon known as “bass face”, and generally inspires a mindless, wobblingly good time. Nubiyan Twist’s latest single, “Reach My Soul – Bassline Version”, does precisely this. With a plinking, poppy four-to-the-floor beat, overlaying a burbling bass that thrums throughout the track, it is ridiculously fun.
“Reach My Soul – Bassline Version” is the second single to be released in anticipation of Nubiyan Twist’s upcoming album, NT Soundsystem. The album, set to be released on June 13th, is the fifth from Nubiyan Twist, an electronic reimagining of their fourth album, “Find Your Flame”. This single comes hot on the heels of “Battle Isn’t Over – D’n’B Version”, and seems to set up the concept of the album: reconstructions of Nubiyan Twist tunes with an eponymous twist; tracks infused with classic sounds of British electronic music. Expect a sonic education in the history of UK rave culture.
On rave culture history, Nubiyan Twist and bassline trace their roots up North. Sheffield, where the band hails from (although they now suffer the fate of many talented musicians, and are based in London), boasted Niche Nightclub, the epicentre of bassline, until a police raid led eventually to its closure in 2005. It seems fitting that, of all the tunes to herald Nubiyan Twist’s latest album, they chose a sonic sibling. That is not to say that “Reach My Soul – Bassline Version” bears any resemblance to Nubiyan Twist’s past sound, which is decidedly global (they count blues, soul, jazz, and afrobeat amongst their many influences). Rather, having a local favourite blast the path for their album, imbued with all the pluckiness of the old-school sound, is a nod to the rich dance music heritage this album seems to be elevating.
In many ways, “Reach My Soul – Bassline Version” epitomises bassline. Take the archetypal feature of distorted female vocals on bassline tracks. Here, the chopped vocal samples are extracted from Aziza Jaye’s determined, sensual starring role in the original “Reach My Soul”. They are sped up, perceptibly pitched, but not quite to the level of nightcore. It is enough to lend “Reach My Soul – Bassline Version” a kick of energy, commanding instant response: feet tapping, heads bobbing. This is exactly the more poppy sound bassline was known for and built its following from.
A note on the contrast here between the original tune and this latest instalment, “Reach My Soul” is a sultry, celebratory song of resilience and perseverance, dressed up with jazzy horns, seductive keys, and a cheeky, plucked guitar. It feels like sauntering into a smoky speakeasy, sexy, sly, and sincere. This version is far more playful – irresistibly moveable, demanding that listeners at least shuffle, it is borderline goofy in parts, especially when the bass receives proper treatment. But that’s the whole point of bassline – it is senseless, silly, and so, so fun.
