Colossus by The Soundsystem: A 1999 UK Gem That Still Bangs (Kinda)
Alright, let’s talk about Colossus, the 1999 electronic brainchild of The Soundsystem. Released via Not On Label (because apparently naming your label is too mainstream), this album dives headfirst into House, Breakbeat, Progressive Trance, and Tech House. And yeah, it’s got that late '90s vibe—like someone threw a rave in a warehouse and forgot to turn off the strobe lights.
First up, the track “Untitled.” Wait, seriously? Untitled? Bold move or lazy genius? Either way, it sticks in your head like gum on a hot summer day. It’s one of those tunes where you’re not sure if you’re dancing or just having a minor seizure—either way, your feet won’t stop moving. The beat builds slowly, teasing you with layers of synths before dropping a bassline so thick it could double as a sandwich filling. Wally C., who mastered this bad boy, deserves props for making it sound crisp without losing its gritty edge.
Then there’s another banger—I wish I could tell you its name, but hey, maybe it’s also untitled. This one’s got breakbeats sharp enough to cut glass, layered over a hypnotic progressive trance melody. Imagine driving through London at 2 a.m., neon lights reflecting off puddles while this plays in the background. It’s cinematic, bro. Like, Quentin Tarantino should’ve used it for some intense getaway scene.
What makes Colossus stand out isn’t perfection—it’s personality. You can hear the DIY spirit all over it, which feels refreshing compared to today’s overly polished EDM anthems. Sure, some tracks feel a bit dated now, but that’s part of the charm. It’s like finding an old mixtape in your attic; sure, it smells weird, but damn, does it bring back memories.
Reflecting on Colossus, it’s wild to think how much music has changed since ‘99. Back then, people were still figuring out what electronic music could be, experimenting with sounds like mad scientists. Listening to this album reminds me that sometimes, rules are meant to be broken—or at least bent until they snap.
Oh, and fun fact: mastering engineer Wally C.? Legend has it he did half the work hungover. If true, respect. Because honestly, most of us can barely microwave toast after a night out, let alone tweak audio levels.
So here’s the deal: Colossus might not change your life, but it’ll definitely make your next house party less awkward. And really, isn’t that what matters?
Final verdict: 8/10. But only because I couldn’t find a tracklist longer than two songs. What gives, guys?
