With his upcoming debut single “Alive,” Birmingham producer Nearside steps into the spotlight with a track that feels both deeply personal and sonically ambitious. Set for release on 21 November 2025, “Alive” isn’t just another drum and bass cut—it’s a milestone in the young artist’s journey, shaped by self-belief, community support, and a newfound confidence in his sound.

Nearside’s story is one many emerging producers will recognise. He discovered drum and bass in 2022, falling in love with the genre after hearing artists like Turno and Chase & Status. The turning point came in 2023 at his first rave—a moment that opened the door to the pure, electrifying energy that defines the scene. From there, he dove deeper, finding inspiration in the melodic power of Subfocus and Dimension, whose catchy leads and heavy mid-basses left a clear imprint on his developing style. Additional influences from artists like Pirapus and 5x helped shape the melodic edge that now defines his music.

“Alive” was created quietly in his bedroom about a year ago, long before Nearside ever planned to release anything. At the time, fear held him back. Like many new producers, he was worried about judgment, unsure whether his work was “good enough” to share. But everything changed when fellow producers—particularly James Taupo—encouraged him to push past that anxiety. Digging through months of unfinished projects, he rediscovered “Alive” and realised it was the track that deserved to mark his first official step forward.

That context makes the single’s title feel especially fitting. “Alive” doesn’t just refer to the energy of the song—it reflects Nearside’s new sense of artistic awakening. As he puts it, “Fear of what others think will kill a dream,” a line that encapsulates the emotion behind the release. This single is his way of choosing passion over doubt, community over isolation.

Sonically, “Alive” captures everything that drew Nearside to the genre in the first place. The track blends bright, memorable melodies with the kind of punchy mid-bass that fills a dancefloor. You can hear the Subfocus and Dimension influences clearly, yet the production still carries Nearside’s own fingerprint—a balance of uplifting hooks and driving, dance-ready intensity. It’s the type of track that feels built for both headphones and festivals, offering an instant energy boost without losing its emotional core.

What makes “Alive” stand out is its sincerity. The production is polished, but the heart behind it is unmistakable. Knowing the story of how it was created—buried under unfinished ideas until the right encouragement brought it back to life—adds an extra layer of meaning. It’s a debut that doesn’t just showcase skill; it showcases growth.

For Nearside, “Alive” represents more than a first single. It’s proof of what can happen when an artist stops holding themselves back. The drum and bass community thrives on support, and this release is a clear reflection of that spirit. If “Alive” is any indication of what’s ahead, Nearside is a name listeners will be hearing a lot more of in the coming years.

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