Ego-Free Sequences drops ‘Headshell / Relent’ on Dark Red Records

The fifth release from Dark Red Records presents a double A-side digital offering from label owner Ego-Free Sequences, featuring ‘Headshell’ and ‘Relent’. The latter also includes vocals from Devashish, a close friend and member of the Manchester band Brigantis. Mastering on this release has been executed beautifully by Manchester’s very own Sappo.

Ego-Free Sequences has been steadily carving out a distinct presence in the underground Drum & Bass scene, known for his intricate sound design, immersive atmospheres, and genre-blurring approach. With a background rooted in experimental electronic music, his productions often fuse deep, hypnotic textures with raw, driving rhythms. His work embodies a forward-thinking ethos, balancing technical precision with emotive depth, making each release a journey rather than just a collection of tracks.

Both ‘Headshell’ and ‘Relent’ originate from the same sonic palette, sharing many of the same drum elements and patches. ‘Relent’ took shape first, built around a layered old-school acid synth patch that weaves through the mix. A continually shifting high-end filter interacts with a deep, intense sub, locking into a half-time drum pattern to create a tech-driven groove that hits with force. Devashish’s haunting mantra-like vocals are pitched up and arranged in a loose collage, adding emotional depth and a natural cadence to the unfolding narrative. Reece and hoover synths punctuate the track, injecting classic rave elements that contrast and complement the atmosphere, driving the energy forward.

‘Headshell’ emerges from the same foundation but takes on a subtly distinct character. The acid synth line is adjusted to bring a playful bounce to the groove, this time built around a dancehall-influenced structure, raising the energy and enhancing the dancefloor appeal. This track is all about the relentless build. Carefully placed shakers and percussive hits weave in and out of pounding, industrial-tinged drums. A dramatic orchestral hit serves as a pre-chorus moment, launching into a gnarly main section where metallic snares slide between hoovers, heightening the tension. The momentum continues to rise as additional percussion elements propel the track into a full-throttle second act, switching grooves before the breakdown and returning with full force to close.

This release further cements Ego-Free Sequences as an artist unafraid to explore the outer edges of Drum & Bass, seamlessly blending deep atmospheres with high-impact sonics. With a growing catalogue that showcases a meticulous ear for sound design and a clear passion for pushing boundaries, his productions continue to resonate with listeners who appreciate both depth and dancefloor functionality.

Today we premiere ‘HEadshell’ which you can check out below. The 2 tracker dropped today (Friday 31st January) and is available for you to get your hands on here!