Anna Grubauer

North London artist Ruby Francis revisits her recent EP ‘Pages Of Philosophy’ through a club-focused lens, transforming a project originally created in her bedroom studio into a more dancefloor-oriented remix collection. While the original’s blend of neo-soul, jazz and ‘00s R&B leaned into a softer sonic palette and intimate songwriting, Francis’ affinity for dance music was always palpable — this time round, it takes centre stage.

Amsterdam’s LAZA trades the driftier moods of his recent releases for a brighter broken beat approach on ‘Acceptance’, a three-track EP for United Identities. The producer’s affinity for soulful music clearly shines throughout the record — warm textures and layered percussion creating grooves that feel playful yet tightly wound, the loose-limbed rhythms of ‘To The Rhythm That We Love’ and ‘Get What U Won’t’ meeting a warm-n-fuzzy bass, with flashes of soul in the piano and vocal work.

Perfectly in time for summer, London-based artist KINGH steps forward on her debut EP ‘DARE TO DREAM’, released via Shy FX’s Digital Soundboy. Across the record, rare-groove and soul influences meet a nostalgic ’80s palette without feeling trapped by it. Instead, KINGH’s understated, sultry vocal cadence keeps things contemporary, set against funky basslines and crisp drums. The title track is an updated take on Viola Wills’ classic of the same name, but with soulful, breathy, rap-tinged vocals.