DJs deliver a new sound to Cincinnati's Mad Frog

Last month, after witnessing the serious throw downs of the UK Freestylers in Dayton, Ohio, I questioned the direction of Cincinnati’s electronica scene. But after Saturday night’s “Pressure” event, it’s clear that electronica is finally making a breakthrough in the Queen City.

Hosted at the Mad Frog at Vine and McMillan streets, the “Pressure” events are no stranger to Cincinnati; however, it does appear that many people are just now catching wind of these events. Pressure events are held every third Saturday of each month at the Mad Frog and are expected to gain in popularity across the city.

As I was walking down the stairs I could already tell it would be a fun night. The bass was relentless and, at one point, the bass was so heavy it literally blurred my vision. Cincinnati native Keezy kicked off the night, spinning some very grimy dubstep with a dash of drum and bass.  Followed by Use Error, who played break core and dark drum and bass sets, is proof that Cincinnati DJs can hang with the heavyweights on the scene.

As the night went on, Royal Sound Systems played more familiar tunes mixed with their signature heavy bass sound to ensure that the crowd was fully hyped for Dallas, Texas DJs Mundo and Royal Highnuss. They thrust the crowd into a melodic trance and lead them through a bass-filled musical experience.

Mad Frog’s dungeon-like atmosphere was perfect for these events. The dry, moldy smell of old carpet helped set the tone for a dark and bass-filled show. The setting was accented by very dim lighting and walls adorned with old Egyptian paintings reminiscent of a bad 1970s horror movie.  Though some may view these characteristics negatively, for me, all these traits were welcome and appreciated, as they emphasize the true meaning of this music genre’s culture.

Throughout the evening, listening to the DJs spin dark and brooding dubstep sets, it was apparent that this genre of music draws audiences as diverse as their footwear styled by Timeberlands, classic Adidas, Converse and flip flops. One attendee flip-flopped across the crowd sporting a mullet while shirtless, demonstrating that electronica does not discriminate among its listeners.

It is apparent that this part of Cincinnati’s electronic scene is really just getting started. Granted, house music in Cincinnati has already established itself among electronica fans, but the dubstep genre is bringing something totally different and brand new to the Cincinnati area.

Dubstep originally found its roots in the United Kingdom in early 2000, gaining popularity over the course of 10 years. It then slowly made its way into the United States and is starting to take up residency in the Midwest, and, in particular, throughout Ohio.  Though we may be several years behind the UK in introducing this relatively new music genre, the timing could not be more perfect for us. So Cincinnatians prepare to brace your selves, because the dubstep movement is here – and it is here to stay.