Get To Know: EQ50
Since 2018, London-based collective EQ50 have been working towards fairer representation within drum and bass. Over the past couple of years, they have launched a mentorship in collaboration with Critical Music, Function Records, Shogun Audio, Ram Records and V Recordings. Outlook UK will be their debut at the festival, featuring sets from Aum, Spectral, Anikonik, Mizeyesis, Elisa Do Brasil, and Sweetpea. Ahead of Outlook UK, we caught up with EQ50 to discuss what excites them about the festival and what we can expect from their takeover.
EQ50 are taking over a stage with a killer line-up, tell us a bit about who’s onboard and what to expect?
“We’ve put together a killer line up of both established and emerging artists. We’ve got DJs from all over the UK and are so pleased to have the amazing Mizeyesis from the US join us. For many of the artists playing on the EQ50 stage, this will be their Outlook debut so the excitement levels are so high!”
Who are EQ50 championing/working with right now that needs a shout-out?
“EQ50 is working behind the scenes getting things ready for our second mentorship. We’ll be working with new record labels and are so excited so launch, select and work with our future mentees! Mentoring Anikonik, Athena, Charla Green, Mandidextrous, Nia Archives and Spectral throughout 2020/2021 was hugely rewarding and made a big impact. Our standards and expectations are just as high for the next round!”
What are you excited about for Outlook UK? Who else on the lineup are you looking forward to seeing?
“We can’t wait to check out the other stages and hear the killer sound systems. The team at Outlook don’t skimp on sound so we’re expecting belly shaking bass! Highlights for us are 30 years of DJ Storm and Jah Shaka.”
If people could take away one thing from EQ50, what would it be?
“If you care deeply about the culture you’ll understand the importance of dismantling barriers that prevent marginalized groups from participating in this industry. If we want the music to be the best it possibly can be we need to make sure it’s accessible to all. We’ve got to keep diversity and inclusion at the forefront.”
EQ50 will be taking over The Keep stage at Outlook UK on Friday 1st July. Listen to recent mix Sweetpea did for us below.