Sharky releases ‘Up Till Now’ anthology

The release of ‘Up Till Now’ follows Sharky’s debut album “People Are Strange” and subsequent remixes from Donsurf and El Payo, which received support from the likes of Lauren Laverne, Sian Eleri (BBC Radio 1), Jamz Supernova (BBC 1Xtra), Don Letts (BBC 6Music), Jess Iszatt (BBC Radio London), Anne Litt and Scott Dallavo (KCRW), Jyoty (Rinse FM), NME Magazine, Clash Magazine, Fusicology, Stereofox, NTS and Soho Radio.

“Tenerife 2” is producer/husband Todd Speakman’s tweaked version of the acclaimed “Tenerife”. This disco-era reimagining breathes new life into the song, boasting a revamped drum kit and arrangement. The result is a harmonious fusion of nostalgia and modernity, where the synth-heavy, 80s influences meld effortlessly with avant-soul vocals. This retrospective sound serves as a poignant backdrop whilst Sharky reminisces and recalls memories that shaped her perspective of her Mum.

‘Up Till Now’ serves as an anthology, combining a carefully curated selection from Sharky’s musical journey, including previously unreleased instrumentals. The LP opens with full-of-attitude “Hawaii”, born from a collaborative session with the dynamic producer-artist duo Speakman Sound (Todd and Guy Speakman) and Jon Moody (of Franc Moody), inspired by The Parliament’s Funkadelic set at Glastonbury. “Hawaii” was first released in 2018, alongside jazzy alt-pop single “Bold As Brass”, recognised by Okayplayer for possessing “a range and power that few can hold a candle to”.“Fruit”, “Touch”, “Two Armies” and “Romanian Moths” are taken from Sharky’s Fruit EP (2019), originally out on ETLW Records. The genre-bending melodies, bubbling beats and otherworldly vocals are reminiscent of Minnie Riperton and NAO, with sonic influences from PJ Harvey and Stevie Nicks. The funky “Cause and Effect”, radiates with silky smooth “sass”. This track is a jubilant celebration of the confidence Sharky finds in being a woman. The dynamic energy persists with the punchy builder “He Burned Down the City”. Delivering a powerful vocal performance that aligns with its hard-hitting, tribal rhythms.

Collaborating again with Speakman Sound, who combine UK bass music with atmospheric sounds and deeply infectious rhythms, Sharky released “Shade”, “Love and Ownership”, “Morning Glory” and “Story Telling” as part of the ‘Love and Ownership’ EP (2020). Sharky elaborates, “I set out to continue exploring the sonic landscape of the Fruit EP and wanted to further explore the childhood influences such as Janet Jackson and Cyndy Lauper”. These tracks are part of ‘Up Till Now’, among the 16 featured selections that encapsulate Sharky’s musical journey leading up to her latest album, ‘People are Strange’.

‘People Are Strange’, her debut album, celebrates Georgia’s ability as a lyricist to reflect on personal and poignant themes with a sense of humour and openness. Sharky’s catalogue has garnered support from key players, from Annie Mac to Gilles Peterson and BBC Radio 4, where she was invited to perform on Loose Ends.