Cover image for Radial EP

Drum & bass · Release review

Radial EP

Diode

Diode makes a powerful solo debut on VTO Records with the Radial EP, a fierce three-track release packed with raw neurofunk energy and industrial sound design.

VTO Records Released 25 July 2025

USA-based producer Diode charges into the spotlight with Radial, a heavyweight three-tracker that signals his first solo release on VTO Records. Building on the momentum of his contribution to Cells Interlinked Vol. 2, this EP marks a clear step forward—bolder, sharper, and unapologetically fierce.

“Flux” opens the release with eerie tension and guttural intent. A swirling brew of sub-layered synths and steadily rising pressure sets the mood before the percussion tears in—distorted, dense, and deeply effective. Once the drop lands, it’s pure neuro warfare. Diode’s trademark chugging rhythm work and punishing sound design lock into place for a punishing, high-impact ride.

“Radial Bomb” doesn’t hold back either. It toys with contrast, luring you into a false calm before unleashing cinematic dread and chaotic force. The percussion feels industrial and unrelenting—what some might call pots and pans, Diode turns into artillery. Every element of this tune is aimed squarely at the dancefloor.

“Brain Tag” might already be familiar to those tuned in to Cells Interlinked Vol. 2, but its return here is more than justified. A relentless roller driven by classic neurofunk grit, it hammers home the aesthetic Diode is carving out for himself. It’s aggressive, precise, and refuses to let up.

Taken as a whole, Radial is a no-nonsense statement from an artist who’s clearly found his lane and is accelerating fast. This one’s not just for fans of hard-hitting tech—it’s a signal that Diode is ready to move from the underground into centre view.

The Radial EP drops exclusively on Beatport and Spotify on 25 July 2025, with full release following two weeks later.

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