Scottish producer Rich Ellis is stepping up his game with the release of “Circulate,” a track that breathes fresh air into a UK Garage template. Drawing on everything from MJ Cole’s two-step to Bonobo’s indie-electronic atmospheres, Ellis pushes the sound into new territory—groove-heavy and undeniably melodic.
“‘Circulate’ is a bit of a change of direction for me. I’ve been sat on it for a while—the initial idea was started in 2022. 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. Artists such as Bonobo & Tourist really influenced it, and I’m so happy with the way it came out. 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. I’m really very proud of it,” – Ellis.
Known for bootleg remixes that turned heads on the club circuit, Ellis has built momentum with tracks like “Tango” and “Breathe,” both earning support from DJs and tastemakers on BBC 1Xtra, KISS FM, and Rinse FM. “Circulate” takes a slightly different path, trading speed-garage adrenaline for a soulful, contemplative vibe that’s no less compelling.
Ellis’s approach to production often feature blending the old and the new, and “Circulate” nails that sweet spot—throwing a nod to classic UKG while forging a rich, melodic future.