British producer duo RUZE make a bold statement with the launch of their new imprint, Staff Only Records, debuting with the groovy and high-energy compilation RUZE and Friends, out October 30th. The dynamic release features collaborations with Josh Butler, Ryan Nicholls, Chesster, Ranger Trucco, and THEOS, showcasing a diverse range of sounds across the house music spectrum.
The EP opens with RUZE and Ryan Nicholls’ “Time Again”, a high-octane house cut inspired by the golden era of ’90s Chicago House. Its hypnotic rhythm and driving groove set the stage perfectly for what follows. RUZE then team up with house veteran Josh Butler on “Surrender”, a dark, late-night roller filled with shadowy textures and brooding tension. Next, Ranger Trucco and RUZE deliver “Need Ur Lovin”, a sleek, groove-rich collaboration dripping with classic house flavor, while Chesster’s “House Train” takes listeners deeper into the groove with rolling basslines and irresistible swing. Closing the compilation, RUZE join forces with THEOS for “Let The Power”, an explosive finale crafted to ignite dancefloors with its relentless beats and driving bassline.
Born from a late-night jazz session and creative spark, Staff Only Records embodies community, collaboration, and inclusivity within club culture. “Everyone is part of the staff,” say RUZE, describing the label’s ethos — from ravers and DJs to the friends behind the booth. With a mission to bridge underground authenticity and accessible grooves, Staff Only focuses on soulful, garage-leaning house rooted in connection and creativity.
“Starting our own label has always been a dream (so cliché),” explain RUZE. “We’ve been working our way into the music scene for around 15 years now, and after all that time, it finally feels like we’ve found a space where we can make it happen.”
The debut VA compilation encapsulates the label’s ethos through a lineup of close collaborators and friends, each bringing a unique flair to the Staff Only sound — from Ryan Nicholls’ local groove to Chesster’s deep house touch, Josh Butler’s veteran presence, Ranger Trucco’s transatlantic energy, and THEOS’ French finesse.
Named one of Beatportal’s Ones to Watch, RUZE have built a global reputation for their signature fusion of driving basslines, crisp percussion, and soulful vocal layers. Their acclaimed discography includes releases on Hot Creations, PIV, Factory93, Universal, and Dansu Discs, consistently earning BBC Radio 1 support and multiple Beatport chart-toppers. Their 2024 album Journey on PIV Records hit No. 1 across all genres on Beatport within 48 hours, while their collaboration “Sample Inspector” (with Robbie Doherty and Chesster) became a club staple worldwide. Most recently, their track with Mr. Belt & Wezol surpassed one million streams in under a month and hit No. 2 overall on Beatport.
With RUZE and Friends, the duo officially open a new chapter, setting Staff Only Records on course to become one of the most exciting new labels in house music.
RUZE and Friends is out now on all streaming platforms via Staff Only Records.
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