Picture this: you’re deep in the heart of London’s underground dance scene, basslines pulsing through your veins, and the air’s thick with the kind of energy that makes you feel alive. That’s the vibe Mel Blue captures in their latest single, “None of That,” featuring Aussie sensation Sycco, from their upcoming album nomorejacketsplease, set to drop on September 26th via Nettwerk. This track is a wild ride through UK garage, drum & bass, and juke/footwork influences, with a raw emotional core that’s impossible to ignore. Let’s dive into why this song—and this band—is about to take over your playlist.
A Sound That’s Both Nostalgic and Fresh
“None of That” is a masterclass in blending the gritty nostalgia of 90s jungle and drum & bass with a modern, polished edge. The track kicks off with a skittering beat that feels like it’s racing through a neon-lit cityscape, layered with atmospheric synths that add a dreamy, almost melancholic vibe. Sycco’s vocals are the perfect counterpoint—smooth yet commanding, delivering lyrics that channel anger into something transformative. As Mel Blue puts it, the song is about wrestling with that fiery, complex emotion and using it to grow. It’s not just a banger for the dancefloor; it’s a cathartic release for anyone who’s ever felt the sting of injustice or pride.
The production is tight, with Oscar Sharah, Luke Gerber, and Jacob Siles flexing their knack for crafting dance music that’s introspective yet euphoric. The contorted rhythms and bass-heavy drops nod to genre-defining acts like Underworld and The Prodigy, while Sycco’s feature brings a fresh, soulful energy. Fun fact: Oscar produced Sycco’s track “Buttered Up” alongside Chrome Sparks, so this collab feels like a natural, full-circle moment. The result? A song that’s equal parts reflective and ready to ignite any club night.
Who Are Mel Blue?
For those new to the trio, Mel Blue—formed by producers Oscar Sharah (vocals) and Luke Gerber (bass), later joined by Jacob Siles—is a Sydney-London hybrid act with a knack for turning clashing emotions into sonic gold. Their name, short for “melancholic blue,” hints at their core: music that’s both wistful and uplifting, lost yet grateful. Since finding their voice in 2018 during a creative retreat at Sanctuary Point, they’ve been carving out a space in the indie-electronic scene with their unique blend of pop sensibility and underground dance influences.
Their upcoming album nomorejacketsplease is a love letter to London’s vibrant electronic music culture, inspired by nights spent at iconic spots like Fabric and Phonox. But it’s not just about the music—it’s about the struggle and growth that came with relocating from Sydney to London. Expecting a career slingshot, the trio instead faced isolation and 9-5 teaching jobs to make ends meet. That raw, real experience shaped the album’s themes of redemption and resilience, wrapped in fast tempos and danceable beats. Tracks like “Slice,” “Frake,” and “Secret Crush” promise to keep the energy high while telling a deeply human story.
Why “None of That” Hits Different
What makes “None of That” stand out in today’s crowded electronic music scene? It’s the way Mel Blue balances raw emotion with club-ready production. The track’s jungle and DnB influences tap into the current resurgence of 90s-inspired sounds—think artists like PinkPantheress or Nia Archives, who’ve brought UK garage and drum & bass back into the mainstream. Yet, Mel Blue’s introspective spin sets them apart, making “None of That” a song you can lose yourself in on the dancefloor or vibe to during a late-night drive.
Sycco’s contribution can’t be overstated either. Her soulful delivery adds a layer of authenticity, turning the track into a conversation between anger and growth. It’s the kind of song that feels personal, like it’s speaking directly to your own battles, while still being universally relatable. Plus, the music video (check it out on Nettwerk’s site!) amplifies the track’s energy with visuals that match its frenetic, emotional core.
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Final Thoughts
“None of That” is more than just a single; it’s a glimpse into Mel Blue’s evolution and a testament to the power of underground dance music to tell real, human stories. With nomorejacketsplease dropping soon, this trio is poised to make waves in the indie-electronic scene. So, crank up the volume, let Sycco’s vocals and those pulsing beats wash over you, and get ready to add this track to your playlist. What do you think of Mel Blue’s sound? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s vibing with you!
