Proving that he is an artist who is as interesting as he is dynamic, Rich Ellis takes a step into new sonic territory with Circulate, a track that trades his usual dancefloor-ready tracks for a more intricate, groove-infused UK Garage sound. Known for his speed garage remixes and DJ-ready cuts, the Scottish producer leans into a more refined, indie-electronic influence, channeling artists like Bonobo and Tourist while still maintaining his signature finesse.
From the outset, Circulate sets a different tone- lush, moody chord progressions intertwine with plucky synth melodies, replacing the usual higher-intensity tracks with a more immersive and emotive atmosphere. The two-step rhythm and smooth beats give a nod to UKG pioneers like MJ Cole, but Ellis brings a modern, personal twist to the genre. The result is a track that feels intimate yet still deeply rhythmic, merging nostalgia and innovation.
Ellis himself acknowledges the shift, statingf, "Circulate is a bit of a change of direction for me. Unlike a lot of my discography so far, it’s not written for DJ sets. It’s a lot more low-key and more influenced by indie/electronic than anything else." The absence of vocals- originally considered- only strengthens the track’s storytelling, as he explains, "I nearly got a vocal on it, but I felt the plucky synth did the talking, and I think it really tells a story as an instrumental."
This song is an ode to Ellis' skill as a producer and reputation as an artist who is unafraid to experiment. Circulate isn't just a departure- it’s a masterful reinvention, displaying why he is one of few to be successful in breaking out in the electronic music scene.
