‘Shapes: In Space’ is the latest in Tru Thoughts’ series of essential label compilationsput together by A&R and co-owner (and renowned DJ) Robert Luis. Encompassing the best of the Brighton based label’s eclectic and international current roster,as well as some classic cuts and three exclusive tracks, this is an amazing complation of music!<br/><br/>
“I always enjoy putting together these compilations and I personally love how this series shows the eclecticism of the Tru Thoughts artist roster”, says Luis; “I am a firm believer in the often used phrase "There are only two types of music: good and bad", and the tracks on the Shapes series always cover a wide variety of genres and styles, all linked by a constant of true creativity and soul.”<br/><br/>
As well as the sonic variety, this collection also highlights the diverse origins of the music on the label. From the UK, there are the soulful, forward-looking and beat-laden offerings of rising stars Werkha, Bryony Jarman-Pinto and Harleighblu, while from the USA there is Moonchild (who have been praised by the likes of Jazzy Jeff, Laura Mvula and Tyler, The Creator), Lost Midas, The Seshen and Space Captain. Repping the authentic New Orleans sound, Grammy-nominated Hot 8 Brass Band have continued to win more and more fans across the world since they first started working with Tru Thoughts a decade ago.<br/><br/>
A newer signing to the label is London based Austrian artist Manu Delago, who is a key player in Björk's band alongside his solo work, and who delivered a deep, experimental album last year to much acclaim. Various strands of Reggae/Sound System culture are represented here by Ghost Writerz, Wrongtom and Rodney P (whose “Holes In The Building” single with DJ Die lit up theofficial BBC 1Xtra Playlist earlier this year). Anchorsong (a London based Japanese producer) comes with a track from his ‘Ceremonial’ album, on which he explores Tropical and vintage African rhythms and has gained huge acclaim including official BBC 6Music Playlisting. And Quantic comes with another new project, The Western Transient, an inspired instrumental jazz outing that shows once again what a strong creative musical force he is.<br/><br/>
Having celebrated 15 years of independent success in 2014, Tru Thoughts is riding high with flagship artists like Quantic, Alice Russell, The Hot 8 Brass Band and Hidden Orchestra – and UK legends like Rodney P, Zed Bias and brand new signing Flowdan - being joined by a powerful new wave of talent, pushing the boundaries of diversity and quality yet further. Cutting edge electronic explorations and thundering bass and dub sit alongside spine-tingling soul and folkloric fusion through to dexterous hip hop, not to mention combinations of all the above and more.A1. Werkha - Dusk feat. Bryony Jarman-Pinto
A2. Moonchild - The Truth
A3. J-Felix - Patience feat. Abi Flynn
A4. Space Captain - Remedy
A5. Harleighblu - Mmm feat. Dr Zygote
B1. J-Felix - 101 Reasons (El Train Remix)
B2. Werkha - Sidesteppin' feat. Bryony Jarman-Pinto (Henry Wu Remix)
B3. Anchorsong - Oriental Suite
C1. The Bamboos - On The Sly (Jonny Faith Remix)
C2. Gold Dubs - What!
C3. Ed West & RTKal - Style Pon Target feat. Ghost Writerz (Esgar Remix)
C4. Rodney P & DJ Die feat. Indigo Kid - Holes In The Building
D1. Lakuta - Bata Boy D2. Titeknots - Hummingbirds
D3. Jonny Faith - Firefly (Clap! Clap! Remix)
D4. Dizz1 - Higher feat. Frank Nitt (DJ Manny Remix)
