Released on , as part of Datsik's Sensei EP , "Nasty" was a highly anticipated collaboration between Canadian dubstep pioneer Datsik and German sound design prodigy Virtual Riot. The track is known for its aggressive energy and complex synthesis, characteristics that made it a staple in festival sets like Lost Lands 2018 . Composition and Sound Design
The track features distinctive vocal samples, including Paul Levesque (Triple H) and YouTuber Markiplier.
The track is a masterclass in the "riddim-influenced" dubstep style popular at the time. Key elements include:
While the track remains a high-water mark for dubstep production, its legacy is often viewed through the lens of Datsik's subsequent controversy , which led to his removal from major tours and festivals shortly after the track's peak popularity. Despite this, the collaboration remains a critical study in sound design for aspiring bass music producers.
Virtual Riot released a VIP (Variation In Production) that further pushed the technical limits of the original.
Elements of the track were later used in other Virtual Riot projects, such as Purple Dragons.
"Nasty" gained significant traction within the EDM community, amassing over 24 million views on promotional channels like DubstepGutter. Its popularity led to several iterations, most notably: