# From Festival Stages to the Studio: Woody Cook and Zed Bias Unveil ‘Afters’
The creative synergy between Woody Cook and UK garage legend Zed Bias has officially transitioned from the festival circuit to the recording booth. Their latest collaborative effort, *Afters*, captures the high-energy atmosphere of their recent live performances, blending the rhythmic pulse of UK garage with the laid-back, soulful undertones of reggae.
Released via the Truth Tribe label, the track is a multi-layered production that benefits from the vocal contributions of Bristol-based artist Aloka and the rhythmic precision of Jonny Dutch. By fusing classic two-step garage beats with reggae-inspired melodies, the group has crafted a soundscape that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
## A Partnership Forged in Live Performance
The genesis of *Afters* lies in the pair’s recent string of successful back-to-back DJ sets. Their collaborative chemistry was put to the test on some of the UK’s most iconic stages, most notably at Glastonbury Festival. This momentum continued into more intimate settings, such as a standout Lab 54 event hosted within the unique acoustics of a repurposed church in Brighton.
These live sessions served as a testing ground, allowing the duo to refine their shared musical vision before committing it to tape. While the track is a fresh release, the foundation of this partnership was laid years ago. Cook has frequently cited the veteran producer as a pivotal mentor, while Zed Bias continues to be a foundational figure in the evolution of British dance music-a legacy cemented by his seminal anthem, *Neighbourhood*.
## The Evolution of the UK Garage Sound
The release of *Afters* arrives at a time when the UK garage scene is experiencing a significant resurgence. According to recent industry data, the genre has seen a 25% increase in streaming volume over the last two years, driven largely by a new generation of producers blending heritage sounds with modern production techniques.
By incorporating reggae influences into the two-step framework, Cook and Bias are tapping into the genre’s roots while pushing its boundaries. This cross-pollination of styles is becoming a hallmark of the current electronic music landscape, where artists are increasingly looking to bridge the gap between festival-ready anthems and late-night, atmospheric listening experiences.
