With his upcoming EP Ruined, set for release on October 10th, 2025, Sydney-born and Germany-based producer Makanduk delivers a three-track statement of intent that highlights his ability to merge groove, atmosphere, and storytelling within the soundscape of deep house, EDM, and future bass. Self-taught and driven by sheer dedication, Makanduk transforms his passion for sound design into an evocative body of work that balances raw energy with cinematic imagination.
The EP opens with Crazy, a track that immediately sets the tone with its infectious rhythmic pulse. The percussive layers intertwine seamlessly with a bouncy bassline, creating a dynamic groove that keeps the listener moving forward. The rhythm here is tight yet playful, designed to pull the body into motion while leaving room for the melodic elements to breathe. Makanduk’s use of syncopation and subtle swing gives the track a sense of unpredictability, ensuring it never stagnates. The synth work, meanwhile, is crisp and energetic, weaving through the low-end foundation with a luminous texture that feels both futuristic and nostalgic. There is a narrative arc embedded in the way the beat develops, pulling listeners into a journey that constantly evolves without losing its core identity.
The second offering, Reason, shifts the mood into darker, heavier territory. The bass dominates here, with a gritty, distorted edge that leans into the future bass influence at the heart of Makanduk’s style. It is a track designed to provoke the so-called “bass face”—that visceral reaction to a filthy drop—and it succeeds with precision. The melody carries a sharp, almost mechanical quality, evoking imagery of futuristic cityscapes and sci-fi combat sequences. Rhythmic tension builds throughout, as the interplay between sub-bass and midrange synth stabs creates a layered sound environment that feels cinematic in scope. The groove, while heavier, is never lost; the kick and snare combination drives the track forward with relentless force, grounding the atmospheric elements in a structure that is both club-ready and deeply immersive.
Closing the EP is Ruined, the title track that encapsulates the release’s thematic and sonic essence. Where Crazy emphasized movement and Reason emphasized power, Ruined leans into atmosphere and storytelling. The rhythm is more restrained but equally impactful, allowing the synth layers to bloom with wide, reverberant textures. Here Makanduk crafts a sonic space that feels expansive and introspective, merging melancholic chords with futuristic pads that swell like waves of emotion. The rhythmic elements are subtly complex, with hi-hats and percussion adding intricate details that reward close listening. The track resonates with the themes of nostalgia and dual belonging that inspired the EP—Makanduk’s experience of living between Sydney and Germany, and the imaginative scenarios that fuel his creative process.
What makes Ruined stand out as a release is not only the variety across the three tracks but also the consistency of quality. Each song exists within the same stylistic framework of deep grooves, electronic textures, and forward-thinking sound design, yet each offers a distinct experience. The EP manages to balance accessibility with individuality: Crazy provides instant appeal with its lively rhythm, Reason pushes boundaries with its dirty bass-driven energy, and Ruined brings the emotional depth that ties the project together.
The production quality is remarkable, especially considering the humble circumstances of its creation. Recorded between Germany and Sydney using only a makeshift home studio, budget monitors, and headphones, Ruined proves that creativity, imagination, and technical discipline outweigh expensive equipment. Every element, from the clarity of the mix to the precision of the synth programming, speaks to countless hours of experimentation, learning, and refinement. Makanduk’s influences—Chris Lake, Chris Stussy, MPH, and others—are subtly present, but never overshadow his own voice. Instead, they inform a sound that is personal and uniquely his.
The atmosphere across the EP frequently evokes action and science fiction scenarios, a deliberate intention from the artist. Whether it is the adrenaline of cinematic chase scenes or the surreal imagery of flying through futuristic skylines, the tracks create immersive spaces where listeners can lose themselves. This imaginative quality elevates Ruined beyond functional club music, positioning it as both an emotional and physical experience.
Ultimately, Ruined is a high-quality release that we are proud to feature. It captures the essence of Makanduk as an artist: self-taught, passionate, and unafraid to merge groove-driven rhythms with expansive sound design. With its balance of energy, atmosphere, and emotion, the EP establishes Makanduk not just as a promising newcomer, but as a producer capable of crafting music that resonates deeply on multiple levels. For fans of deep house, EDM, and future bass, Ruined is a release not to be missed.