The Cross Records returns: The label behind James Hype ‘Ferrari’ resurfaces with a fresh musical outlook

After a two-year hiatus, The Cross Records has officially returned, revitalized, rebranded, and ready to reshape the landscape of house music. Launched as a joint imprint between Club Class, the powerhouse management team behind MEDUZA, James Hype, GENESI, and Tita Lau, and major label titan Island Records, The Cross has always existed at the intersection of underground credibility and mainstream reach. Now, with a sharpened vision and leadership, the label is stepping into its newest chapter yet.

The relaunch is guided by Matt Smallwood, former Head of A&R at Toolroom Records and now Head of Music at Club Class. Known for his instinct in breaking records that connect equally well on dancefloors and playlists, Smallwood views the rebirth of The Cross Records as a chance to do more than just pick up where it left off. “The goal is to create a fresh and exciting platform for both established and up-and-coming artists,” he says. “We want to elevate new talent while still delivering the kind of House music moments fans will remember.”

Leading the charge is none other than Australian duo Bag Raiders, who mark The Cross’s first release since the relaunch with their euphoric new single “Hold Me.” A shimmering, groove-heavy slice of House music, the track is an inspired choice for a label relaunch—feel-good, timeless, and tailor-made for both sun-soaked playlists and late-night dancefloors.

For Smallwood, the timing couldn’t be better. Post-COVID, dance music has expanded into fresh territory, with crossover hits breaking faster than ever through streaming and social platforms. “There’s so much passion and knowledge within the team,” he adds. “Everyone’s buzzing to get this music out into the world again.”

Island Records shares that excitement. Senior A&R Callum Ross explains, “I’ve built an incredible working relationship with Kev and Serg from Club Class over the last five years, and bringing Matt on board for this relaunch felt like the missing piece. He’s someone I’ve always respected as an A&R—his attention to detail, his connections, his vision. The Cross and Island EMI have worked in sync before, but this feels like the true beginning of something special.”

With Bag Raiders’ “Hold Me” as its first release, this new chapter promises to deliver music that resonates across the spectrum from festival stages to underground, and everywhere in between.

Listen to “Hold Me” below out now on all streaming platforms.