Various Artists - Crosstown Rebels present SPIRITS V (2LP) [Crosstown Rebels]

Format: 2x12".

The release of Crosstown Rebels’ SPIRITS compilation is always a key moment for the label. The first edition came to prominence in 2017 and since then we’ve seen a yearly compilation demonstrating a constant vocation for pushing both established artists and promising new talent. Now, the acclaimed SPIRITS series from Crosstown Rebels will once again see the light of day in June, with the release of SPIRITS V.

New Yorker Layla Benitez opens the selection with ‘Fides’ – an introspective, progressive-leaning piece that maintains a clear dancefloor vocation. It kicks off the compilation with a compelling energy, perfectly matched by ‘Trabajar’, the Crosstown Rebels debut of Mr. Diamond, a recent addition to the Hot Creations roster.

With a more tech focus, hard-hitting four-on-the-floor rhythmic patterns create a very defined nighttime atmosphere, before giving way to British talent Denney with ‘Kill The Soundboy’. Showcasing the groove-laden house he has become known for, this near seven-minute piece promises to ignite many a club this year and sets the scene for ‘Talk To Me’. This is a collaboration between Munich-based artist ASK:ME and El Muerto, featuring Soulfoot on vocals. With a vintage, Detroit-style flair, its up-tempo nature builds a natural excitement before giving way to ‘Boom Room’ from Romanian-born label regular GruuvElement, who treats us to a cut of minimalist overtones.

Built on tribal-edged percussion and salsa-inspired instrumentation, the track proposes a playful foray into the margins of dance music, paving the way for young Peruvian producer Chinonegro with ‘My Moment’. Whether it’s the pluck of a guitar string or a jazz-tinged trumpet solo, the six-minute piece has an inherent authenticity to it, with a mid-track breakdown giving way to whispering hi-hats and a solid, steady rhythmic bedrock.

The penultimate offering comes from London-based French artist Maglia, who presents the enchanting ‘Rayiys’. Birdsong sits atop an ever-evolving bassline, leaving us ready for the compilation to close with ‘Thanks Moon’ from Spain’s I AM JAS. A heady combination of delicate lyrical input and soft electronic elements leads us to a state of calm and introspection. Closing the journey on a subdued note, the track evokes the last moments in the club, transporting the mind towards sunrise, cherished memories and everything in between.

Over nineteen years, Damian Lazarus’ Crosstown Rebels has evolved to become a globally renowned institution, conquering global audiences thanks to a consistent schedule of high-quality releases. Since its inception, artists including Maceo Plex, Art Department, Seth Troxler, Ali Love, Mathew Jonson, Pier Bucci, Acid Pauli, Dennis Kurtel, Francesca Lombardo, Glimpse, Aphrohead, Fur Coat and many other luminaries have found their home on the label.

The roster is international and reflects how Crosstown has shaped a truly global scene. Releases are born on different continents, from artists hailing from diverse countries, resulting in a sound that resonates around the world. Perhaps the most defining element of the label’s success is its musical proposal – it’s not governed by boundaries or genres. It is sustained by a genuinely eclectic sound, reflecting the diversity of Damian’s love of music. A drum and bass icon DJ Krust album here, an Audiojack debut LP there… traversing genres has been Damian’s speciality for decades, and Crosstown Rebels is the ultimate expression of that.