Yellow Claw: Amsterdam Trap Mavens at Twerk

Words and interview by Richardine Bartee (originally published on MTV’s IGGY on October 4, 2013)

Name: Yellow Claw

Where They’re From: Amsterdam, Netherlands

When They Started: 2010

Genre: Trap, Hip-House, Dubstep

For Fans Of: RL Grime, Donkong, Zeds Dead, Major Lazer

Sounds Like: A twerkfest at a Dutch brothel.

It’s a shame that this audacious electronic trio, recently signed to boutique Mad Decent imprint Jeffree’s, has yet to diffuse through the dense stratum that is the American music market. Best known for their sonic individuality, which often manifests itself in meter complexity, straight drum beats, and rap and reggae influences, Yellow Claw should be counted as major players in today’s popular twerk-influenced dance culture. Usually, their tracks’ catchy vocals come from group member Bizzey and are then looped and added to the production to give it more depth and rhythm. The adroit trio transforms “normal” electronic music into monstrous pockets of creativity that we all can playback on our mobile devices.

Just three years ago, Yellow Claw came together and started a very popular club night in Amsterdam at Jimmy Woo and soon the group will complete their first stateside tour, The United States of Yellow Claw Tour. They may get their due yet.

Check out the new release simply and aptly titled “Amsterdam Twerk Music,” it’s so good that I’ve attached a warning for beginning listeners: First, put on your stylish cervical collars. Then, pump up the volume.