“After ten years, I wanted to show the world what we stand for musically, and that’s what #RESET is all about” – Mark Knight
After over a decade in the music industry, Toolroom Records is about to enter a new phase with the launch of #RESET; we all know dance music in the UK is in rude health right now so the timing of #RESET could not be better. Toolroom Records have chosen to reignite their passion for House music, combining a meticulous artist roster, with a new album series and a forthcoming events concept, Toolroom is at the start of a new chapter in their history which aims to illustrate their strong musical vision by bringing credible House music to the attention of like minded ravers and skankers.
Over the past ten years, Toolroom have signed and even discovered some legendary artists; whilst continually remaining true to their ethos of hard hitting dance music in an ever more saturated soundscape. As the industry has morphed and evolved, Toolroom have been able to do the same whilst maintaining their musical integrity and their forthcoming artist roster is definitely one we are excited about.
Having stripped back and refocused, leaving only artists they are truly passionate about, Toolroom have an exciting array to offer – foremost amongst them is Weiss – regonizable for his penchant for deep jacking grooves, warm rumbling subs, sweet sharp percussion and delicate vocal treatment have had ravers two-stepping from day one, and he’s clearly an artist they’re very proud to support.
“I’ve known the guys at Toolroom for a long time… Where they are going musically is fresh; it’s exciting. Toolroom is my label. It’s my home and it’s where I’m proud to be” – Weiss
Toolroom have always been proud of their ability to release dance music that covers a wide spectrum within the bass music scene – building close relationships with a plethora of artists, only serves to reinforce their pledge of being at the forefront of contemporary bass music. London-based duo Tough Love, whose commitment to producing the freshest House cuts has seen them develop a cult following and rapidly rise through the ranks of the UK House scene, sit comfortably alongside long-term label mates Prok & Fitch and Rene Amesz – all of whom have remained pivotal, contributing hugely successful singles and album tracks, as well as regularly joining them at events worldwide.
Amtrac – “Those Days”:
Musical polymath and turntablist extraordinaire Doorly remains central to the sound, alongside US one-to-watch artist Amtrac, who has developed a strong following through relentless touring and consistent releases, and Beatport top 10 regular Bontan. Developing artists and bringing them into the Toolroom family remains their central focus with much to look forward to from these artists in the future. The newly formed artist roster will also house the talents of Argentinian Tech pioneer Adrian Hour, with his ability to make unforgettable main room Techno making sure these are ones and twos of the highest calibre.
“Toolroom is a natural home for me because… they gave me that opportunity that another labels didn’t… Toolroom has the chance to release a big Techno track, or big House track, or Deep House, etc. And that is what I like – creative freedom” – Adrian Hour
Finally, the roster would not be complete without label leader Mark Knight. His ability to straddle the underground and commercial sounds is unparalleled. With a decade’s worth of experience leading the label and many more years experience in production and touring, he is the perfect figurehead, alongside the rest of the Toolroom team, to guide, support and encourage the artist roster.
‘Toolroom Live’ is a brand new album concept where Toolroom Records can highlight their key artists, present new tracks, and give their fans a taste of the live experience, and new album Toolroom Live 01 is the album that cements the label’s key figures and defines their musical space. Three mixes from Mark Knight, Weiss and Adrian Hour take you from underground House music right through to main room Techno, highlighting the vast musical spectrum Toolroom Records are privileged to occupy, while also shining a spotlight on the three core artists, leading the label into the next ten years.
To truly get a feel of the #RESET concept, the live arena experience is one of the best on offer and this is where their brand new events concept fits in. Toolroom Live brings alignment between the label’s musical vision, musical output and events. With a focus on their roster to create some unforgettable nights, the team at Toolroom and their artists are really excited to share #RESET with you and your posse so make sure to get yourselves down for the Toolroom Live Tour as they begin a new and exciting journey.
Toolroom Live 01 – The Album:
Purchase: Toolroom Live 01 mixed by Mark Knight, Weiss & Adrian Hour (iTunes)
Words by Akua Ofei // Edited by Ayo Adepoju
