Launched by DJ Stretch in 1995 with the help of record label Reinforced Records, A-Ko Recordings released numerous records by Stretch throughout the ’90s. A-Ko Recordings also inspired numerous offshoots, including AKO Beatz in 2014. AKO Beatz focused on promoting established artists and fostering new talent within the jungle and drum and bass music scene.

The London-based label also includes sub-labels AKO Reload, AKO10, AKO150 Arcade, and Warn Ah Bruddah. They are also responsible for running various underground shows throughout London.

Since its launch, AKO Beatz has released records by artists such as Ricky Force, Goldie, and Tom & Jerry across its main label and sub-labels.

In a statement about the 25-year milestone, DJ Stretch wrote, “I’m super proud to see a new generation getting to hear the sound we believed in back in the day, and bringing it into the future now. And it doesn’t stop there. Every year I’m raising the bar higher!”

AKO Beatz… 25 Years in the Jungle can be watched on YouTube.

Phinnegan and Madrush both hail from the U.K., and on account of the COVID-19 pandemic they haven’t had the chance to test this out on a real life crowd. New Zealand duo Melt., however, have returned to playing shows in front of real people, and have seen the damage this belter can do to a dance floor.

The ghostly intro smoothly swells into an absolutely filthy, crushed reese bass line. The modulating low-end wobble that has been synonymous with drum and bass since its inception still packs a powerful punch to the gut. Madrush MC’s slick vocals provide just the right amount of organic balance for a wall of halting amen breaks.

The trio masterfully demonstrate what makes drum and bass such a compelling genre. Its stark elements allow the body to experience the rhythm in a way that’s visceral. It feels fierce and chaotic, yet the drum programming is so subtly delicate and precise.

“Everyone” is available as part of the onesevenfour Vol. 1 compilation.