British house duo RUZE unveil new VA compilation via new imprint Staff Only Records
British producer duo RUZE offer up an eclectic mix of groove and club bangers with new VA compilation RUZE and Friends, featuring Josh Butler, Ryan Nicholls, Chesster, Ranger Trucco and THEOS on their new label Staff Only Records, out on 30th October.
The EP kicks off with RUZE and Ryan Nicholls’ high-energy record ‘Time Again’, a thumping house cut that channels the spirit of ’90s Chicago house. Its driving groove and hypnotic rhythm make it the perfect introduction, setting the tone for the release. Next up, RUZE joins forces with house heavyweight Josh Butler on ‘Surrender’, a deep and brooding roller made for late-night clubs. Pounding kicks and shadowy textures create tension over an atmospheric groove, showcasing the duo’s mastery of dark, dancefloor-ready energy. Ranger Trucco steps up with ‘Need Ur Lovin’, a sleek collaboration with RUZE that oozes classic house vibes. Its groove-heavy rhythm and vibrant energy make it a must-play for any late-night set. Chesster takes the spotlight with deep grooving anthem ‘House Train’, brimming with irresistible grooves and rolling energy that keep the momentum soaring. Closing out the EP, RUZE and THEOS deliver ‘Let The Power’, a full-throttle house banger with a driving bassline and relentless beats – a climactic finale built to leave the dancefloor buzzing.
Born from a late-night jazz session and a flash of inspiration, Staff Only is the new record label making its mark on the global house scene. Built on a foundation of community and collaboration, Staff Only embodies the idea that “everyone is part of the staff.” From the ravers bringing the energy, to the DJs behind the decks, to the friends who never leave the booth, the label celebrates every part of the ecosystem that fuels the dance floor. Musically, Staff Only bridges the gap between underground and accessible sounds, with a focus on soulful, groovy, garage-leaning house.
“To start our own label has always been a dream (so cliche)” RUZE explain. “We’ve been working our way into the music scene for around 15 years now, and after 15 years of trying it finally feels like we’ve found a space where we can start the label up.”
The label launches with a standout VA featuring Ryan Nicholls, Chesster, Josh Butler, Ranger Trucco, and THEOS – a hand-picked lineup that reflects Staff Only’s broad creative vision. The release brings together long-time collaborators and close friends, each representing a distinct flavour of the Staff Only sound. From Ryan Nicholls’ local flair and Chesster’s deep house touch to Josh Butler’s legendary influence, Ranger’s transatlantic groove, and THEOS’ unmistakable French finesse, the debut compilation sets the tone for what’s to come.
Named as Beatportal’s Ones to Watch, the dynamic duo are cementing their status in the global house scene with a distinctive fusion of driving basslines, crisp percussion, and soulful vocal energy. Their expanding discography spans influential imprints such as Hot Creations, Chaos, Universal, Factory93, PIV, AWD, Dansu Discs and more – a testament to their versatility and crossover appeal across underground and commercial spheres. Consistent chart success defines their catalogue, with multiple Beatport No. 1s and widespread BBC Radio 1 support. Their 2024 Journey LP on PIV Records soared to No. 1 across all genres on Beatport within just 48 hours, while their Factory 93 release Sample Inspector (with Robbie Doherty & Chesster) earned backing on Radio 1 and became a staple in sets worldwide. Most recently, their collaboration with Mr. Belt & Wezol surpassed 1 million streams in under a month, climbed to No. 2 overall on Beatport, and secured heavy rotation on BBC Radio 1, Radio 538, and beyond.
Debuting on the newly launched Staff Only Records, a label poised to make waves on the global house scene. RUZE and Friends is out now on all streaming platforms.
