Yo, if your speakers have been feeling a little too polite lately, Funk Cartel just dropped the antidote. Their new track "Need U" (part of the Need U EP) is straight-up designed to wake up the dancefloor, blending tech house grooves with that raw, old-school house energy that hits different in 2026.
Picture this: chunky basslines that rumble through your chest, minimalistic percussion that locks you in, and just enough funk to keep the vibe alive and breathing. It's the kind of production that feels both futuristic and nostalgic at the same time – sleek modern tech house meets those classic warehouse house flavours that made underground clubs legendary. The extended mix clocks in at a perfect 6-minute journey, giving DJs exactly what they need to build tension and then let it explode. No filler, all killer.
Behind the name Funk Cartel stands the brother duo Blame Rory (Rory Cochrane) and Kimono Cam (Cameron Cochrane) from London. These guys have been carving out a serious reputation in the underground scene for years with their signature "rave-ready flavours" – that perfect mix of life, soul, and pure dancefloor energy. Whether it's on labels like Etiquette, Hottrax, or now Metamorfosi Records, they consistently deliver tracks that feel like they were born to be played loud in sweaty basements or open-air raves.
In a year where minimal house and deep tech are blowing up again (check any 2026 playlist and you'll see the wave), Funk Cartel are right in the sweet spot. The underground house scene is thriving with that raw, hypnotic energy, and "Need U" captures it beautifully – groovy, driving, and impossible to stand still to. It's the soundtrack for late-night sets when the lights go low and the bass takes over.
What I love most is how they manage to keep it stripped-back yet full of character. The minimal house elements give it that clean, hypnotic drive, while the old-school house influence adds warmth and that unmistakable funk that makes people move. It's rave-ready without being chaotic – precise, soulful, and seriously addictive.
If you're a DJ hunting for fresh weapons or just a fan who loves proper underground house music that still feels exciting in 2026, do yourself a favour and spin this one. Funk Cartel continue to prove why brotherly chemistry in the studio translates to pure fire on the speakers.
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What do you think – is "Need U" going straight into your rave playlist? Drop your thoughts in the comments, tag a friend who needs this energy in their life, and let me know what other underground gems we should be checking out right now!
