Let Ekali Take You On a Mental Vacation

It's not the first time that Nathan Shaw's music has been featured here on THUMP, nor will it be the last. I gave this mix a good listen while on vacation in BC's Gulf Islands, and the blend of beats, trap, and soul went perfectly with the idyllic scenery while also soothing my pain over losing my phone in an unexpected kayaking disaster. "I want to make club tunes that are also headphone music," says Shaw, and with this half hour mix I think he can say mission accomplished.

An immensely talented and versatile musician, Shaw's successes have been piling up since he made the transition from playing bass in Juno-winning band Said the Whale to also performing under his electronic alias Ekali. As the only Canadian to be admitted to the Red Bull Music Academy in Tokyo this October, Shaw will spend two weeks collaborating with 29 other artists from around the world. The producer is also a member of dreamy online label Flow-Fi, and his most recent release from them was one of our personal favourites.

Anyway, pause whatever you're listening to and cue this up right now. With things getting better and better for Nathan Shaw, keep an eye out for more good shit from the next major player on the Canadian electronic scene.

Keep up with Ekali on Soundcloud, Facebook, and Twitter.

Genevieve Michaels is a writer, gallery worker, and lounging enthusiast. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

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