First Listen: Reel People help nine to five and Ruby Francis get "Shady"

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    (March 26, 2019) As electronic dance music stretches the boundaries of pop, soul, and so many other genres in the 21st century, there are more specialized labels that cater to showing the musical genius of the leaders of dance music.  One such company is the UK-based Foliage Records, whose roster includes the duo of nine to five - Simon Gray and Adrian Zagoritis.  Grey’s jazz flavored keyboard work and drumming background propel nine to five’s funk-filled soundtracks, even as he and has guested with other artists such as soul/jazz veterans Incognito.  In the production chair, Zagoritis is responsible for the success of various pop artists in several countries and is part of another electronic duo, York.  In a collaboration entitled “Shady Shoes,” songwriter/producer Ruby Francis, who has released two E.P.’s - Night Time Therapy and To Be Fair - adds her warm, playful voice to the dance party.

    (March 26, 2019) As electronic dance music stretches the boundaries of pop, soul, and so many other genres in the 21st century, there are more specialized labels that cater to showing the musical genius of the leaders of dance music.  One such company is the UK-based Foliage Records, whose roster includes the duo of nine to five - Simon Gray and Adrian Zagoritis.  Grey’s jazz flavored keyboard work and drumming background propel nine to five’s funk-filled soundtracks, even as he and has guested with other artists such as soul/jazz veterans Incognito.  In the production chair, Zagoritis is responsible for the success of various pop artists in several countries and is part of another electronic duo, York.  In a collaboration entitled “Shady Shoes,” songwriter/producer Ruby Francis, who has released two E.P.’s - Night Time Therapy and To Be Fair - adds her warm, playful voice to the dance party.

    For our latest First Listen installment, we focus on the remix of “Shady Shoes,” courtesy of dance masters, Reel People.  The delicious Latin beats and deep fried bass enhance the sexy, accented by the neo-soul/pop vibe from Francis, Grey’s colorful jazz improvisations and enticing backing vocals.  With all those musical ingredients in motion, Foliage registers a dance club winner that showcases the distinctive talents of nine to five, Francis and Reel People.

    By Peggy Oliver

    nine to five feat. Ruby Francis - "Shady Shoes"
    (Reel People Remix)