The HeavyTrackerz were a relatively unknown production outfit to most people until Meridian Dan’s German Whip stormed into the UK charts at number 13.
The truth, however, is the collective from Walthemstow have been bubbling under the surface for a while like lava in a volcano waiting to blow.
It’s fair to say their production credits have been just as hot. Grime greats Wiley, Boy Better Know, Ghetts and Big Narstie are just a small sample of artists who have received the Trackerz treatment. And that number is set to grow as the guys attract overseas attention in the form of Iggy Azalea and Mystery Skulls queuing up for a remix with the signature Trackerz whisper on it.
Bonded by the “same mind frame of how grime should sound”, Teedot explains the idea for the crew was born over 11 years ago and has grown organically since then, propelled forward by the chemistry between them.
Witnessing first hand how they bounce off each other, it’s easy to picture how things unfold in their two-story studio where Teedot is often downstairs, Raseye upstairs in the recording room and Tank in the lounge.
“I like to make a lot of noise when I make music. I like to walk around and shout – they do too. Some people don’t get that. They’re like ‘I thought those guys would be serious.’ We’re not serious at all,” Teedot says.
While their method may not be serious, the results they achieve definitely are. Producing MOBO award winning Stomzy’s EP Dreamers Disease, and the UK remix for Vic Mensa’s Down on my Luck, the Trackerz have established themselves as the go-to guys for that authentic British sound – a feat that could be attributed to the diversity in the camp.
The age range of the Trackerz spans eight years and Teedot says: “We are all from different backgrounds and have different influences we can bring to the table. People dig that.”
To call them eclectic would be an understatement. A quick game of iTunes roulette with Dan and Teedot reveals just how far ranging their musical tastes are.
Stromae’s Alors Un Dance, Katy Perry’s Roar and MIA’s Paper Planes are thrown up along with tracks by Chris Brown, Michael Jackson, Ed Sheeran, Skepta and Miley Cyrus. They say you can also find French rap and artists from the Ivory Coast and Congo lurking on their iPods.
Recently signing to Bucks Music Group, The HeavyTrackerz take care of all of their production in house. Between them, they have mastered the drums, keys, songwriting, engineering and vocals. As well as making them a one-stop-shop, it also acts as a means of quality control.
Building a reputation for outstanding output, beats are often sent out with concepts attached to avoid the disappointment of a track not quite meeting their expectations.
“I have my own values and beliefs, and certain subjects I’m just like: nah bro,” Teedot says before adding: “Funny enough German Whip was probably the only one not done in our studio. But guess what: it worked.”
The release of their new single Old Habits sees the guys venture into new territories. Rather than being unseen heroes they now take center stage – a move that doesn’t leave them entirely comfortable.
“It was a bit of a fight on how we wanted to market ourselves. I wear the mask constantly. Not because I’m trying to copy Daft Punk; I just don’t really want to be out there,” Teedot explains. “In a way it’s a double edged sword: you don’t want to be known, but you have to be known to do your music.”
Looking to the future, it seems The HeavyTrackerz are well on their way to joining the ranks of producers they want to emulate including Rudimentals, Basement Jaxx and Quincy Jones.
While respect for their work grows, it seems their bank balance will follow suit as they list some of the artists they have in the pipelines: Wiley, Mikill Pane, Rizzle Kick, Iggy Azalea and Mystery Skulls – punctuating each with the word “Kaching”.
The top 5 best produced tracks according to The HeavyTrackerz
Anything by Buraka Som Sistema
Old Habits is out now
@HeavyTrackerz
