Australian bass music talent Hydraulix tackles his lockdown-induced inner demons in his versatile 20-track debut record, Imposter Syndrome.

Hydraulix’s penchant for experimenting with sounds culminates with the release of his innovative debut album, Imposter Syndrome, out now via WAKAAN.

While fans can expect the artist’s signature hard-hitting bass and heavy drops, Imposter Syndrome takes Hydraulix away from his comfort zone.

The album, said to have been formed from the artist’s lockdown-induced insecurity and self-doubt, features a collection of 20 tracks that delve into freeform bass, trap, drum ‘n bass, dubstep, rap, and even pop.

Hydraulix explains the concept behind the album,

“One thing that I’ve always struggled with is the feeling of not knowing what I was doing most of the time or not deserving my success and accomplishments.”

When COVID hit last year, everything changed for me; my US tour got cut short and I go back home [to Australia] and straight into lockdown. After facing the reality of things, I realised I had been dealing with a case of ‘imposter syndrome’ for quite some time. It was a tricky time and I wanted to push myself to create something that truly tested me and my production skills. The concept of ‘Imposter Syndrome’ really hit home for me, and I knew it would be a fitting title for the album.”

The album is notable for featuring 16 co-collaborators and artists to help expand Hydraulix’s sonic vision.

Fans have listened to a selection of tracks in the past few months with singles such as the unrelenting bass-metal gem ‘Concrete’ with grungy vocals from up-and-coming singer Jasiah, the bombastic trap lead ‘Waratah’ with Nitti Gritti, and the dreampop dance hybrid ‘Wish I’d Never Met You’ with Veronica Bravo.

Also read: Hydraulix and Jasiah pair up for bass-metal tune ‘Concrete’

Notable new highlights include ‘Ridgy’, which sees musician Charlie McMahon take up the digeridoo that builds up to an epic drop as well as the hazy, hip-hop drenched ‘Another Minute’ with enigmatic producer Muchi.

Hydraulix adds,

“I feel like everyone who does anything creative can at some point suffer from ‘Imposter Syndrome.’ It’s such a common feeling that I’ve shared with many other people – overthinking and overanalyzing can lead to feelings of doubt about your skills or your ideas. I’m proud of how ‘Imposter Syndrome’ has come together, and I’m forever grateful for the people who have supported, pushed, and inspired me to keep growing as an artist and a person.”

Listen to Imposter Syndrome via Spotify below.