‘Shapes: Spectrum’ on limited edition double black vinyl

The vinyl release of ‘Shapes: Spectrum’ features essential album tracks and innovative reworks all exclusively on vinyl for the first time. It follows the digital release of latest addition to the Tru Thoughts series of essential label compilations curated by A&R, label founder and renowned DJ Robert Luis. After 23 years of independently releasing music, the ‘Shapes’ LPs celebrate the best of the Brighton-based label’s wide-ranging and international roster. The 35 track digital album features established acts such as Quantic & Nidia Góngora, Moonchild, Alice Russell, Anchorsong and Rhi and newer signings offerings from Rebecca Vasmant, Ebi Soda, Hemai, MELONYX, Anushka, Crafty 893 and Tiawa.

“I always enjoy putting together the annual Shapes compilation, as it allows me to pause and celebrate our recent releases as well as highlight the musical direction Tru Thoughts is going in. The label has always had a mission to be eclectic and represent a variety of genres and artists; with the more established artists being placed alongside newer acts and remixes from artists I am into. As usual, if you like a track on the compilation, it is always worth checking more music from that artist.” – Robert Luis

Opening the LP are North-London based Aurora Dee Raynes, with “Good For You” taken from their debut album ‘Invisible Things’ followed by Afronaut presenting “How It Goes”, previously described by The Observer as “A celebration of everything joyful, positive and inventive about British Music”. Stepping into the mix are the majestic duo of Moroccan Gnawa-master (maâlem) Rabii Harnoune and Frankfurt electronic producer V.B.Kühl, offering up funky modern club sounds with yourboykiran and Chandé’s take on “Aisha”. Meanwhile, Bruk Rogers (Zero T’s alias) delivers a Latin meets West London, Broken Beat inspired remix of MELONYX’s “Ujjayi”.

The compilation also features releases previously hugely in demand on vinyl including Sefi Zisling’s “The Sky Sings feat. Layla Moallem, Jasmin Moallem & KerenDun (Obas Nenor’s Extended Dub)”, Ben Hauke’s reimagining of The Seshen’s “Still Dreaming” and WheelUP’s take on “Soldiers”, taken from labelmate Tiawa’s debut album ‘Moonlit Train’.

‘Shapes: Spectrum’ shares “Serious Drug (Instrumental)” by Wildcookie, the timeless, boundary breaking imprint from Anthony Mills and Fredrik Lager AKA Freddie Cruger AKA Red Astaire, who has passed away in the time since the compilation was put together. We will continue the legacy of the late Fredrik Lager, an endlessly talented musician and dear friend who will be greatly missed. This tune was included on the physical release of ‘Shapes: Spectrum’ prior to his passing. He loved having his music on vinyl and we celebrate his memory with a tune that has rocked dancefloors and headphones across the world.