absysrec.com/absdig021 Here we are with something worthy of the 21st century – our 21st digital release. This one features three collaborative works by the likes of Physical Illusion and Hidden Element , which is a much welcome comeback as both names have appeared in our back catalogue a few times already. Their joint efforts have borne fruit in the form of an excellent EP entitled “ Raw Cuts ”, and the name is as apt as it can get. The EP includes three deep-basslined and heavy-percussioned cuts, each a bit different, but all forming a consistent story unfolding progressively from a gentler start to a heavier end. “ Ancient Spirit ” opens the EP, offering the listener a dive into microfunk-ish drum programming and a drilling line of bass sounds accompanied by tension-building samples and vocal inserts. “ Badman ” changes the course towards a rougher direction; a no-nonsense razor-sharp syncopated stepper with a booming bassline is bound to set the dancefloor in motion. The ender, “ Primal Rhythm ”, is yet another one on the harsher side. A regular roller, propelled by a flooding low end and a rain of rushing beats, designed as an effective crowd-mover. The EP is all the more exciting as it reveals a tougher face of artists known otherwise for their gentler take on drum & bass. Served raw and sounding as fresh as you’d expect.