Without Ya

Released in late 2024, Without Ya serves as a definitive distillation of Bakermat's 'soulful house' philosophy. The Dutch producer, known for his pivotal role in the melodic house movement of the 2010s, uses this EP to deepen his exploration of gospel and jazz influences. The project is characterized by its high-fidelity production and its reliance on the saxophone as the primary melodic engine. Unlike many of his contemporaries who lean into darker, more industrial techno sounds, Bakermat remains committed to a bright, major-key aesthetic. The track 'Praise Break' highlights his ability to sample and recontextualize spiritual music for a modern electronic audience, while the title track 'Without Ya' demonstrates his growth in song structure and melodic phrasing. Critically, the album represents a refinement of his sound rather than a departure, solidifying his position as a leader in the intersection of house, soul, and jazz.