Across the latest and long-awaited studio album Let Loose, his first LP since 2006, The Shapeshifters pledges rhythmic allegiance to the golden era disco records and their spellbinding qualities; embracing the tension often found between tradition and future to craft a euphoric, certifiable body of work presented to the devoted audience he garners.
The Shapeshifters exemplifies a flourishing scene, one that is now engaging an ever-younger fan base. With Marlin and Glitterbox at the heart of the modern disco sound, it’s easy to see why The Shapeshifters are more in demand in the clubs than ever. Their relationship sees not only an unrelenting mutual respect of dance music’s rich history but the inclusivity and enduring liberation that is rooted within it.
The twelve-track album is illuminated with vocal collaborations including the recently released and debut collaboration with the Grammy, Tony and Emmy Award-winning Billy Porter, ‘Finally Ready’ and ‘Life Is A Dancefloor’ featuring CHIC’s Kimberly Davis - both were playlisted on BBC Radio 2.
The album’s “The One That Got Away” also features London-born multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Obi Franky who has recently joined The Shapeshifters on tour with impeccable summer performances at Glitterbox @ Hï, Café Mambo On Tour at Castle Howard, Defected Croatia and Brixton Disco Festival.
Covid inevitably slowed down the completion of Let Loose, which begun back in 2020 with Simon and his right-hand man and multi-instrumentalist Colin Smith heading Stateside with rough instrumental demos to start writing sessions on the LP, aided and abetted by one of Simon’s co-writers, New York based Audrey Martells.
“The initial idea was to go to Brooklyn, hire a loft, immerse myself, be around great musicians. And we did it, but the plan to go back and record and mix in New York couldn't happen. There were sessions in between lockdown lifting, with various COVID restrictions, it was all very confusing. The whole process lasted two years.”
Layers of rushing strings, flares of brass and hedonistic grooves provide refreshing dancefloor power dynamics and deliver a liberating, triumphant and inherently uplifting record.
“This recording would not have been possible without the incredible talent and musicianship of so many other people. It is a collective effort on so many fronts and I have been truly blessed to have so many amazing and creative people around me, I thank each and every one of you for your energy and love for what you do.”
Taking an impeccably smooth course through disco-infused house, The Shapeshifters continue the rich relationship with Glitterbox and its record label; one that has yielded instant classics such as ‘Try My Love’ featuring Teni Tinks; undoubtably hailed as the Glitterbox anthem that epitomises the label’s ethos for preserving disco’s mission to uplift and empower.
