Review of Overmono: This track is a shining example of how rave culture can energize a dancefloor with its sharp, fragmented beats.

While DJ sets in clubs often feature pounding kick drums, speedy hi-hats, crawling basslines, and looped vocal samples, Overmono is part of a trend in dance music that proves the genre can also succeed in larger venues without losing its raw appeal. The Roundhouse in London offers an alternative big-room experience compared to the usual tech-house-loving crowd, but its concave roof enhances the sound and creates an immersive dance experience on a Wednesday evening.

Tom and Ed Russell, also known as Truss and Tessela, start their set with a high-energy collaboration featuring Joy Orbison and Kwengface called Freedom 2. They then move into more synth-heavy and exhilarating tracks. Along with popular songs like Gunk and BMW Track, they also incorporate crowd-pleasing samples like Ruff Sqwad’s Functions on the Low, The Streets’ Turn the Page, and Tessela’s own Hackney Parrot. The transitions between these songs are seamless, and even those sitting down cannot resist getting up and dancing to the infectious beats.

As the initial fragmented rhythms of So U Kno begin to play, the audience erupts with anticipation for the duo’s iconic song, causing an escalation in dancing and energetic movements. It seems as though every person in the venue is shouting the lyrics “I let you get me, want me, want me, want some” in perfect unison; laughter and happiness fill the pulsing beat. Later on, during Bby, the phrase “Baby if you want my love” is also joyfully chanted as the subwoofer sends bass riffs reverberating through the floor.

Due to the limited time of an evening live performance, there is not much opportunity for the duo to explore their electronic experimentation. It would have been interesting to see them deviate from their usual groove and try something more improvisational. However, the show ends early, breaking the momentum. Nonetheless, for a brief moment during a dull weeknight, Overmono creates an exhilarating and complex rave experience.