Get Crunked Up Heard It All B4 by Dred Controllers Versus Icons Anderson – A UK Garage Gem That Still Bangs
Alright, let’s talk about this wild little relic from the UK Garage scene: Get Crunked Up Heard It All B4 by Dred Controllers Versus Icons Anderson. Released back in 2001 on their own label (Not On Label, shoutout to DIY vibes), it’s one of those albums that feels like a time capsule but still slaps today. If you’re into UK Garage or just love tracks that make your speakers throb, this thing deserves a spot in your collection.
First off, gotta give props to “Get Crunked Up (B-Boys-Step Dub Mix).” This track is straight fire. The bassline hits hard—like, "I need new subs after this" hard. There’s something raw and gritty about the way it builds up, drops, then flips into these glitchy beats that feel like they shouldn’t work, but somehow do. You know when a song makes you wanna move even if you're sitting down? Yeah, this is one of those. I remember hearing it for the first time at some dodgy club years ago, and man, the energy was insane. People were losing it on the dancefloor. Like, proper losing it. Even now, throwing this on gets me hyped.
Then there’s “Heard It All B.4 (Downlow Remix),” which has this eerie kinda vibe going on. It starts slow, almost teasing you, before dropping into this deep groove that locks you in. The vocals are chopped and screwed just right, giving it an almost hypnotic feel. What sticks with me here is how moody it sounds compared to other garage tracks from the era. While most tunes were all about big hooks and flashy synths, this remix keeps things low-key and mysterious. Feels like sneaking through the back alleys of London late at night—dark, edgy, unforgettable.
The whole project screams early 2000s underground UK Garage. No shiny production tricks, no radio-friendly edits—just pure, unfiltered creativity. And honestly, that’s what makes it so good. These guys weren’t trying to fit any mold; they were out here doing their own thing, and it shows.
Reflecting on this album, it’s kinda crazy how music can take you back to specific moments in life. Listening to Get Crunked Up Heard It All B4 again feels like reconnecting with an old mate who hasn’t changed a bit—you pick up right where you left off. Plus, it reminds me why UK Garage will always hold a special place in my heart. It wasn’t just music; it was a movement, a vibe, a lifestyle.
Oh, and fun fact: apparently, this album came out without much promo, just word-of-mouth buzz. Makes you wonder how many more hidden gems we missed back then. Anyway, go cop this if you haven’t already. Trust me, your playlist needs it.
