Uploaded March 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Stream / Download: lnk.to/fw330
Written by Georgie Sweet & Marc Rapson
Lead & Backing Vocals by Georgie Sweet
Produced by Marc Rapson
VIDEO:
Directed by Marc Rapson
Shot by Warren Woodcraft
Featuring Zoe Rapson
———
First Word Records are incredibly proud to welcome our latest signing, Georgie Sweet, and a brand new two-track single.
Georgie is a singer / songwriter currently based in Brighton, with a uniquely smooth, soulful vocal tone. A vocalist from a young age, initially working with her musical parents (a producer and professional singer respectively), she previously released an album entitled 'Misunderstood' back in 2020 on Futuristica Music; an independent imprint run by Deborah Jordan & Simon S.
As welll as working with acclaimed producers like K15 and Mecca:83 on her debut record, it saw the start of a songwriting partnership with multi-instrumentalist Marc Rapson, who is on the boards throughout this new project. The duo began working on an abundance of beautiful new material shortly after the release of 'Misunderstood', with this single being a taste of what's to come.
Her previous material caught the ears of tastemakers including BBC 6 Music's Gilles Peterson ("incredible"), Jazz FM's Tony Minvielle ("something special") and found itself in the crates of legendary luminaries like DJ Jazzy Jeff & DJ Spinna amongst others.
Although Georgie is a new member of the First Word roster, this isn't her first appearance on the label; she featured on the title track of the highly-acclaimed sophomore album by Children of Zeus, 'Balance', along with Akemi Fox.
With a hugely diverse set of inspirations ranging from Stevie Wonder to Michael McDonald, Hiatus Kaiyote to Chappell Roan, Mac Miller to Sampha, and George Duke to EW&F, Georgie's respect, love and admiration for a wide range of music is clear; from jazz to soul to pop to hip hop.
An exciting new talent, her prowess as a vocalist and a songwriter is growing exponentially; this additionally to studying and working as an illustrator and animator, Georgie is an all-round creative soul.
The track 'Smaller' is a piece of bright, mid-tempo, alternative r&b. Georgie's harmonies gracefully glide across a lush laidback palette of keys and lo-fi drums, whilst lyrically it's a coming-of-age tale.
Georgie explains ""Smaller speaks to that part of yourself that feels like you're either too much or not enough, like you're always falling short or not quite where you need to be to deserve love. It's a reminder that you're worthy, just as you are."
'Smaller' is released March 20th 2025 and is taken from Georgie's forthcoming sophomore album 'I Swear To You', due for release on First Word later this Summer.
—
Stream / Download: lnk.to/fw330
Stream / Download: lnk.to/fw330
Written by Georgie Sweet & Marc Rapson
Lead & Backing Vocals by Georgie Sweet
Produced by Marc Rapson
VIDEO:
Directed by Marc Rapson
Shot by Warren Woodcraft
Featuring Zoe Rapson
———
First Word Records are incredibly proud to welcome our latest signing, Georgie Sweet, and a brand new two-track single.
Georgie is a singer / songwriter currently based in Brighton, with a uniquely smooth, soulful vocal tone. A vocalist from a young age, initially working with her musical parents (a producer and professional singer respectively), she previously released an album entitled 'Misunderstood' back in 2020 on Futuristica Music; an independent imprint run by Deborah Jordan & Simon S.
As welll as working with acclaimed producers like K15 and Mecca:83 on her debut record, it saw the start of a songwriting partnership with multi-instrumentalist Marc Rapson, who is on the boards throughout this new project. The duo began working on an abundance of beautiful new material shortly after the release of 'Misunderstood', with this single being a taste of what's to come.
Her previous material caught the ears of tastemakers including BBC 6 Music's Gilles Peterson ("incredible"), Jazz FM's Tony Minvielle ("something special") and found itself in the crates of legendary luminaries like DJ Jazzy Jeff & DJ Spinna amongst others.
Although Georgie is a new member of the First Word roster, this isn't her first appearance on the label; she featured on the title track of the highly-acclaimed sophomore album by Children of Zeus, 'Balance', along with Akemi Fox.
With a hugely diverse set of inspirations ranging from Stevie Wonder to Michael McDonald, Hiatus Kaiyote to Chappell Roan, Mac Miller to Sampha, and George Duke to EW&F, Georgie's respect, love and admiration for a wide range of music is clear; from jazz to soul to pop to hip hop.
An exciting new talent, her prowess as a vocalist and a songwriter is growing exponentially; this additionally to studying and working as an illustrator and animator, Georgie is an all-round creative soul.
The track 'Smaller' is a piece of bright, mid-tempo, alternative r&b. Georgie's harmonies gracefully glide across a lush laidback palette of keys and lo-fi drums, whilst lyrically it's a coming-of-age tale.
Georgie explains ""Smaller speaks to that part of yourself that feels like you're either too much or not enough, like you're always falling short or not quite where you need to be to deserve love. It's a reminder that you're worthy, just as you are."
'Smaller' is released March 20th 2025 and is taken from Georgie's forthcoming sophomore album 'I Swear To You', due for release on First Word later this Summer.
—
Stream / Download: lnk.to/fw330
![Black Sumo & Black Sumo - Silent Stones [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/NZCmxjFQc5k/mqdefault.jpg "Black Sumo & Black Sumo - Silent Stones [Audio]
Download & Stream: https://kud.li/fw368
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#FirstWordRecords #RapHipHop #InstrumentalEastCoast
Album: Clarity [ALBUM]
Track: 4 of 12
Title: Silent Stones
Artist: Black Sumo & Black Sumo
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW368
Formats: Digital
Digital Release: 8th May 2026
About This Release:
First Word Records is proud to bring you Clarity, a new 12-track beat-tape from Black Sumo.
Black Sumo is the instrumental-hip hop alias of KRTS aka Kurtis Hairston; an artist raised in Pittsburgh, USA, traversing to Brooklyn, NY, and currently residing in Berlin, Germany.
In the early period of the pandemic, during a walk & talk with a Covid-meter of distance between each other, KRTS strolled the empty streets of Berlin with a friend. The details of the discussion are a blur, but the statement yo, that is as rare as a black sumo wrestler is recalled. They laughed & continued their walk. KRTS began reflecting on those words. Black Sumo… That could be an artist name… But, what kind of music?…. His friend agreed & quickly confidently replied definitely hip hop beats.
So was born the moniker & the concept. It began as a homage to the instrumental beat tapes hed make in his dark & musty basement in Pennsylvania at the turn of the century. Raw & gritty, they combined jazzy lo-fi boom bap, reminiscent of early 90s East Coast & Bay Area sounds, with added flares of dramatic layered melodies, and a hint of Shoegaze-esque walls of reverb.
Sonically Clarity embodies a conglomerate of those aural textures across its 12 tracks; from filtered ethereal ambience, to headnod hip hop. It includes the recent singles Silent Stones and Rehearsal.
2020 saw the first fruits of this project enter the world, on the self-released beat tape The Defeatist, or as Kurtis put it at the time the journey of becoming whole again.
He further explains what I did find as far as Clarity during the making of these tracks is how much of an immigrant I really am. I think it really became clear during the BLM marches in Berlin….
A number of tracks were created during the bleak Berlin Winter all the way into Spring; the clarity here being what appears in Spring that Winter was hiding.
The Black Sumo project was effectively put to bed at this point, only to have tracks revisited very recently, five years on, as a new form of Clarity for the feeling of these compositions came to light. A better understanding of the period, and an acceptance & embrace of the art that was created.
And so, it was felt the time was now right to release this material, now revised & revisited with a clearer state of mind. With Clarity…
Clarity is available May 8th on all digital platforms, with a limited cassette version available exclusively on Bandcamp.")
![Georgie Sweet - Become New [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/NsD-NpayUwo/mqdefault.jpg "Georgie Sweet - Become New [Audio]
Download & Stream: https://kud.li/fw328
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#FirstWordRecords #SoulRampB #Soul
Album: I Swear To You [ALBUM]
Track: 2 of 12
Title: Become New
Artist: Georgie Sweet
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW328
Formats: Vinyl LP/Digital
Digital Release: 20th June 2025
Physical Release: 27th June 2025
About This Release:
First Word Records are incredibly proud to bring you I Swear To You; the stunning sophomore album from Georgie Sweet.
Georgie is a singer / songwriter currently based in Brighton, with a uniquely smooth, soulful vocal tone.
Whilst working on her debut record (Misunderstood), Georgie began a songwriting partnership with multi-instrumentalist Marc Rapson, who is on the boards throughout this project. The duo discovered a natural musical connection instantly, and began working on an abundance of beautiful new material shortly after the release of the first album; writing and creating at Rapsons home in Hertfordshire at various sessions from 2021 onwards, culminating in this new 12-track album, I Swear To You.
Despite being one of the UKs best kept secrets, Georgies already been pricking the ears of some highly-respected selectors. The first single from this record (Smaller / All That We Were) received love from tastemakers such as BBC 6 Musics Gilles Peterson (this one melts), Jazz FMs Tony Minvielle (supremely talented) and Clash Magazine (exudes soulful grace), whilst previous material found itself in the crates of legendary luminaries like DJ Jazzy Jeff & DJ Spinna amongst others.
At the end of 2024, Georgie signed to Worldwide Award-winning independent London-based label, First Word Records; although she previously featured before on the label, via the title track of the highly-acclaimed 2021 sophomore album by Children of Zeus, Balance, along with Akemi Fox. Prior to this her debut album Misunderstood dropped back in 2020 on Futuristica Music; an independent imprint run by Deborah Jordan & Simon S, on which Georgie also collaborated with acclaimed producers like K15 and Mecca:83.
An all-round creative soul, away from creating music, Georgie also works as an illustrator and animator. However, her lifelong love of music is unquestionable. Shes been a vocalist from a young age, initially working with her musical parents (a producer and professional singer respectively).
With a hugely diverse set of inspirations ranging from Stevie Wonder to Michael McDonald, Hiatus Kaiyote to Chappell Roan, Mac Miller to Sampha, and George Duke to EW&F, Georgies respect, love and admiration for a wide range of music is clear; from jazz to soul to pop to hip hop.
Her own sound sits within the realm of glo-fi alternative r&b. From powerful piano-led ballads, to head-nod boom bap backdrops, this album exemplifies Georgies eclectic influences and unique talents as a writer and a vocalist, which are growing exponentially. A tapestry of sound that developed whilst Sweet and Rapson moved from the beat-driven vibes of Georgies earlier work, to finding themselves gravitating more and more to the simplicity of the piano and the voice.
Its this shift in styles that encapsulates the sonic and spiritual feel of the entire project, born out of a warm, creative environment, and full to the brim with heart and soul. I Swear To You is a deeply personal reflection on youth, grief and self-acceptance. An homage to childhood, and the transition into adulthood, exploring the range of experiences and emotions that come with that.
The album cover mirrors the essence of the record; a photo of a hopeful, younger version of Georgie, filled with optimism and joy. Despite the emotional highs and lows expressed throughout the songs, the overarching message remains one of hope; encouraging listeners to keep looking toward the future, to never give up, and to hold onto that youthful sense of possibility.
From the ethereal acapella opening of The Ones We Loved, through to the irresistible jazz-hop bounce of tracks like As I Am, Smaller and In My Stride, to the midtempo soulful bop of Equal Measure and previously-released Energy, to epic ballads like Bedsheets and first single All That We Were, to the more melancholy tones of Patricia and Maybe in a Different Life, to the almost-gospel flavoured closing title track, this is a truly accomplished and timeless piece of work from edge to edge.
I Swear To You is released on vinyl and digital worldwide, Friday June 20th 2025.")
![Ruby Wood - On My Mind [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Ns_mgUfLwyo/mqdefault.jpg "Ruby Wood - On My Mind [Audio]
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#FirstWordRecords #SoulRampB #NeoSoul
Album: No Rain, No Flowers [EP]
Track: 5 of 8
Title: On My Mind
Artist: Ruby Wood
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW366
Formats: 12 Vinyl/Digital
Digital Release: 24th July 2026
Physical Release: 24th July 2026
About This Release:
First Word Records proudly bring you the sophomore EP from Ruby Wood - ‘No Rain, No Flowers’.
Ruby is a singer / songwriter hailing from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire in the UK. Her soulful yet distinctive voice has enabled her to front numerous projects over the years; perhaps best known as lead vocalist of the critically acclaimed Submotion Orchestra, since 2009.
Her first solo EP ‘Sincerely’ dropped back in 2023, and received love from the likes of Jamie Cullum, Craig Charles, Jyoty, Huey Morgan, Wordplay & saw Ruby named Mi-Soul Radios One to Watch.
The follow-up EP ‘No Rain, No Flowers’ is a personal tale of growth through adversity. Reflecting on long-term love, fleeting intimacy, grief, and the relationships that shape us. Rather than offering answers, the 8-track EP sits with life as it is. Imperfect, cyclical and shared. The title speaks to the belief that difficult experiences are not separate from growth, but essential to it.
Musically, the project encompasses contemporary flavours within the realms of r&b, soul and hip hop. It features an impressive collective of vocal collaboraters; Illa J, Devin Tracy, Abnormal Sleepz & PRIDO. Each bring their own distinct perspective, whilst complimenting the EP’s introspective tone; favouring warmth, restraint & lyrical authenticity. All are backed by a smooth sonic backdrop of beautifully rich instrumentation, produced primarily by Rob Mitchell of Abstract Orchestra.
Ruby has performed live shows with Nightmares on Wax & Abstract Orchestra as well as with r&b legend Bryson Tiller at his sell-out UK gigs, including Wembley Arena & Manchester Apollo. This is additionally to touring with Bonobo & Nubiyan Twist, and collaborating with the likes of Krept & Konan, Alfa Mist, GLXY and Roska, to name a few.
The diversity of her career, ranging from the intimate to the large-scale performances, gives Ruby a unique balance of vulnerability and musical depth, prioritising authenticity over spectacle. As a solo artist, her work is rooted in honest lived experiences, leading to a focus on songs that resonate long after first listen.
This EP offers a reflection of where Ruby is at now, informed by where she’s been before. It’s a project that embraces imperfection, recognising that those experiences that challenge us the most, shape us the deepest.
‘No Rain, No Flowers’ is released on vinyl & all digital platforms Friday July 24th.")
![Georgie Sweet & Georgie Sweet - Energy [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/OChNV1prNVU/mqdefault.jpg "Georgie Sweet & Georgie Sweet - Energy [Audio]
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#FirstWordRecords #SoulRampB #ContemporaryRampB
Album: Energy (Children of Zeus Remix) [SINGLE]
Track: 2 of 2
Title: Energy
Artist: Georgie Sweet & Georgie Sweet
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW363
Formats: Digital
Digital Release: 19th February 2026
About This Release:
First Word Records are proud to present the Children of Zeus remix of Georgie Sweets Energy.
This is the first in a set of new versions of tracks that originally appeared on the Brighton-based singer-songwriters soulful sophomore album I Swear To You, released Summer 2025, produced & co-written by Marc Rapson.
This record received an abundance of love & praise from the likes of Gilles Peterson (including a live Worldwide FM session), Lauren Laverne (BBC 6 Music), Jamie Cullum (BBC Radio 2), Tony Minvielle (Jazz FM), Patrick Forge (NTS), Clash Magazine, Somewhere Soul, Assorted Tapes (USA), Bandcamp (Albums of the Year) and many more, across Rinse FM, Soho Radio and beyond.
The remix of Energy comes courtesy of label-mates and Mancunian hip hop-soul kings, Children of Zeus. This follows on from a previous collaboration between the artists, as Georgies first appearance on the First Word label was her feature on the title track of the duos last album Balance, back in 2021. For this new version, Konny Kon and Tyler Daley flip the track in their trademark bass-weighted style of alternative R&B, with Tyler also providing additional vocals to the piece.
More mixes to follow in the coming months from a varied selection of producers at the top of their game right now, including Nu:Tone, Kaidi Tatham, Don Leisure & Last Nubian.
For now, soak up this SWEET soulful Springtime Energy…
Released on all digital platforms, February 19th 2026.")
![papaya noon - blush [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/PrHyPijUeIQ/mqdefault.jpg "papaya noon - blush [Audio]
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#FirstWordRecords #SoulRampB #ContemporaryRampB
Album: blush [SINGLE]
Track: 1 of 1
Title: blush
Artist: papaya noon
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW371
Formats: Digital
Digital Release: 21st May 2026
About This Release:
First Word Records are very proud to welcome papaya noon, and their debut single for the label - ‘blush’.
papaya noon are a Cardiff-based duo comprised of vocalist Annie Mirza and multi-instrumentalist Greg Marriott.
Formed five years ago, they make jazz-infused R&B music that incorporates their mutual love of classic soul, hip hop & electronica.
To date, they’ve only previously released one single independently (‘flutter’ from 2022), yet have already amassed an impressive fan-base online, garnering over 80,000 followers across their socials, and receiving praise from such luminaries in the US as Missy Elliot, Snoop Dogg, Queen Latifah, 9th Wonder, Bootie Brown & the late great Fatman Scoop.
This is a result of their unique style, captivating grooves & deeply catchy hooks, encompassing a distinctive blend of soul music, from retrospective 90s vibes to alternative futuristic flavours, creating a sonic palette that’s wonderfully contemporary, yet very much their own.
All their music is written, performed & produced single-handedly by the duo themselves, who’ve managed to create a magically powerful potion from their plant-filled Cardiff studio space, and create huge anticipation for their future output in-turn.
The future is NOW, as papaya noon are finally ready to unleash their music into the world, signing to acclaimed London-based independent label, First Word (home to Children of Zeus, Allysha Joy, Don Leisure, Georgie Sweet and many more).
We set things off with ‘blush’; the first taste of their forthcoming debut EP ‘through the moods’. This is an infectiously spellbindng track that exemplifies their sound, and their prowess for production and songwriting. Greg’s intricate textured playing combines with Annie’s sweet soulful vocal harmonies to create a blend smoother than butter.
The duo said that ‘blush’ was “built on a foundation of swung drums, modulating chords & groove-led bass, which allowed space for Annie’s vocals to breathe.”
They explain further that “the track draws on experiences of loss. Specifically, the shame which follows after we put off seeing estranged loved ones. It was important to capture what shame felt like, through repetition and drive. As with the entire EP, the songs were crafted in a way that’s really open to interpretation, and we hope that people resonate with this music based on their own experiences.”
Following a long period of feverishly teasing tiny loops of music online, they finish by saying “it’s such an amazing feeling when audiences at our live shows sing back the seven second clip theyve been listening to on our socials!…”. We’re delighted that people will finally be able to enjoy the track in full!
Already hailed by some as “the Welsh Moonchild”, papaya noon were named as one of Clash Magazine’s “must-see” acts at FOCUS Wales in 2025, bringing their music to life on stage with their 5-piece live band, additionally performing at Brick Lane Jazz Festival, The Great Escape, Inglefest, Nowadaze, Swn Festival & Good Vibrations Society, as well as NXNe and BreakOut West in Canada, and supporting the likes of Hot 8 Brass Band & Reel People.
With everything already pointing to the duo swiftly becoming one of the hottest new soul acts in Britain, this is only the beginning of the journey for papaya noon…
‘blush’ will be released on all digital platforms on Thurs 21st May, with the debut EP set to drop in July.")
![Amanda Whiting - Rite of Passage (feat. PEACH.) [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Q2fNouayFdY/mqdefault.jpg "Amanda Whiting - Rite of Passage (feat. PEACH.) [Audio]
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#FirstWordRecords #Jazz #Fusion
Album: The Liminality of Her (Deluxe Edition) [ALBUM]
Track: 9 of 14
Title: Rite of Passage
Artist: Amanda Whiting (feat. PEACH.)
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW332
Formats: Digital
Digital Release: 11th April 2025
About This Release:
First Word Records is very proud to present a deluxe edition of Amanda Whitings The Liminality of Her album, featuring three brand new tracks along with a remix from label-mate, Quiet Dawn.
Amanda Whiting is a highly-acclaimed Welsh harpist & composer. A virtuoso in her field, this classically trained musician quickly established herself as an essential player in the UK jazz scene, carving her own unique sound, following on from the paths forged by Ashby and Coltrane.
Following the release of The Liminality of Her a year ago, the album featured in Spotifys Best UK Jazz of 2024 and received glowing reviews in Mojo, Jazzwise, Somewhere Soul, Bandcamp, Clash, AllMusic, Harp Column, Apple Music and HHV, to name a few, along with numerous Album of the Year nods and various other accolades, garnering praise critically and publicly.
Over the past few years, shes had the support of radio stations & tastemakers such as BBC Radio 2 (Jamie Cullum), BBC 6 Music (Cerys Matthews, New Music Fix). BBC Radio 3 (Soweto Kinch, Breakfast Show), BBC Wales (Adam Walton), Selector Radio (Sian Eleri), NTS Radio (Patrick Forge), FiP (Laurent Garnier), Soho Radio (Tina Edwards) and Jazz FM (Tony Minvielle, Chris Phillips, Robbie Vincent, Dom Servini), who also nominated her for Instrumentalist of the Year.
This album exemplifies Amandas talents as a performer and composer, taking in an array of hypnotising sonics from the worlds of jazz; from fusion to spiritual and beyond. A confident display of purposefully blissful compositions that saunter as much as they soothe, whilst being unafraid to lean into some deep uptempo grooves.
Amanda describes the theme of this project as liminality... that place in between, the transition from one place to another. No longer what it was, yet not what its going to be.
The harp always presents itself at these moments. Its a sound that causes an emotion. My instrument chose me. Its been with me through every chapter of life. Its how I speak, especially when there are no words.
This album is a rite of passage for her. A feeling of alchemy, a feeling of liberation. Moments of inner searching, intertwined, waiting but moving forward. Never looking back.
The Liminality of Her encompasses the highs and the lows. The nomadic love of freedom and spirituality. Its all so much bigger than you or I…
For this special deluxe edition, Amanda takes on Hammerstein & Rodgerss classic My Favorite Things, presents two new compositions (Mary Over There and At Ease) and French multi-instrumentalist Quiet Dawn provides a dancefloor friendly remix of the single Intertwined, featuring the vocals of Brighton-based singer PEACH.
Amanda joined the First Word label roster via a collaborative project with Don Leisure, Beyond The Midnight Sun, as well as a feature on his Welsh Music Prize nominated project Shaboo Strikes Back.
Shes previously performed, toured and collaborated with a wildly eclectic set of artists, including Matthew Halsall, Rebecca Vasmant, DJ Yoda, Gizmo Varillas and Chip Wickham (who also features on this project), whilst previously releasing three solo albums on Jazzman Records, and a remix project for Scrimshires Alberts Favourites imprint, ending 2024 with a divine seasonal album A Christmas Cwtch, also on First Word.
Shes performed with her own trio at numerous festivals across Europe, including We Out Here, and had headline shows at The Jazz Cafe and Hootananny in London, with an upcoming show at the legendary Ronnie Scotts in June 2025.
The Liminality of Her (Deluxe Edition) is released digitally on April 11th 2025.")
![Ruby Wood - This Thing Called Life (feat. Illa J & Abstract Orchestra) [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Q6cNQKmntQg/mqdefault.jpg "Ruby Wood - This Thing Called Life (feat. Illa J & Abstract Orchestra) [Audio]
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#FirstWordRecords #SoulRampB #NeoSoul
Album: No Rain, No Flowers [EP]
Track: 2 of 8
Title: This Thing Called Life
Artist: Ruby Wood (feat. Illa J & Abstract Orchestra)
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW366
Formats: 12 Vinyl/Digital
Digital Release: 24th July 2026
Physical Release: 24th July 2026
About This Release:
First Word Records proudly bring you the sophomore EP from Ruby Wood - ‘No Rain, No Flowers’.
Ruby is a singer / songwriter hailing from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire in the UK. Her soulful yet distinctive voice has enabled her to front numerous projects over the years; perhaps best known as lead vocalist of the critically acclaimed Submotion Orchestra, since 2009.
Her first solo EP ‘Sincerely’ dropped back in 2023, and received love from the likes of Jamie Cullum, Craig Charles, Jyoty, Huey Morgan, Wordplay & saw Ruby named Mi-Soul Radios One to Watch.
The follow-up EP ‘No Rain, No Flowers’ is a personal tale of growth through adversity. Reflecting on long-term love, fleeting intimacy, grief, and the relationships that shape us. Rather than offering answers, the 8-track EP sits with life as it is. Imperfect, cyclical and shared. The title speaks to the belief that difficult experiences are not separate from growth, but essential to it.
Musically, the project encompasses contemporary flavours within the realms of r&b, soul and hip hop. It features an impressive collective of vocal collaboraters; Illa J, Devin Tracy, Abnormal Sleepz & PRIDO. Each bring their own distinct perspective, whilst complimenting the EP’s introspective tone; favouring warmth, restraint & lyrical authenticity. All are backed by a smooth sonic backdrop of beautifully rich instrumentation, produced primarily by Rob Mitchell of Abstract Orchestra.
Ruby has performed live shows with Nightmares on Wax & Abstract Orchestra as well as with r&b legend Bryson Tiller at his sell-out UK gigs, including Wembley Arena & Manchester Apollo. This is additionally to touring with Bonobo & Nubiyan Twist, and collaborating with the likes of Krept & Konan, Alfa Mist, GLXY and Roska, to name a few.
The diversity of her career, ranging from the intimate to the large-scale performances, gives Ruby a unique balance of vulnerability and musical depth, prioritising authenticity over spectacle. As a solo artist, her work is rooted in honest lived experiences, leading to a focus on songs that resonate long after first listen.
This EP offers a reflection of where Ruby is at now, informed by where she’s been before. It’s a project that embraces imperfection, recognising that those experiences that challenge us the most, shape us the deepest.
‘No Rain, No Flowers’ is released on vinyl & all digital platforms Friday July 24th.")
![Ruby Wood - When Im With You (feat. PRIDO) [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QZP8I3Gv1Mg/mqdefault.jpg "Ruby Wood - When Im With You (feat. PRIDO) [Audio]
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#FirstWordRecords #SoulRampB #NeoSoul
Album: No Rain, No Flowers [EP]
Track: 8 of 8
Title: When Im With You
Artist: Ruby Wood (feat. PRIDO)
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW366
Formats: 12 Vinyl/Digital
Digital Release: 24th July 2026
Physical Release: 24th July 2026
About This Release:
First Word Records proudly bring you the sophomore EP from Ruby Wood - ‘No Rain, No Flowers’.
Ruby is a singer / songwriter hailing from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire in the UK. Her soulful yet distinctive voice has enabled her to front numerous projects over the years; perhaps best known as lead vocalist of the critically acclaimed Submotion Orchestra, since 2009.
Her first solo EP ‘Sincerely’ dropped back in 2023, and received love from the likes of Jamie Cullum, Craig Charles, Jyoty, Huey Morgan, Wordplay & saw Ruby named Mi-Soul Radios One to Watch.
The follow-up EP ‘No Rain, No Flowers’ is a personal tale of growth through adversity. Reflecting on long-term love, fleeting intimacy, grief, and the relationships that shape us. Rather than offering answers, the 8-track EP sits with life as it is. Imperfect, cyclical and shared. The title speaks to the belief that difficult experiences are not separate from growth, but essential to it.
Musically, the project encompasses contemporary flavours within the realms of r&b, soul and hip hop. It features an impressive collective of vocal collaboraters; Illa J, Devin Tracy, Abnormal Sleepz & PRIDO. Each bring their own distinct perspective, whilst complimenting the EP’s introspective tone; favouring warmth, restraint & lyrical authenticity. All are backed by a smooth sonic backdrop of beautifully rich instrumentation, produced primarily by Rob Mitchell of Abstract Orchestra.
Ruby has performed live shows with Nightmares on Wax & Abstract Orchestra as well as with r&b legend Bryson Tiller at his sell-out UK gigs, including Wembley Arena & Manchester Apollo. This is additionally to touring with Bonobo & Nubiyan Twist, and collaborating with the likes of Krept & Konan, Alfa Mist, GLXY and Roska, to name a few.
The diversity of her career, ranging from the intimate to the large-scale performances, gives Ruby a unique balance of vulnerability and musical depth, prioritising authenticity over spectacle. As a solo artist, her work is rooted in honest lived experiences, leading to a focus on songs that resonate long after first listen.
This EP offers a reflection of where Ruby is at now, informed by where she’s been before. It’s a project that embraces imperfection, recognising that those experiences that challenge us the most, shape us the deepest.
‘No Rain, No Flowers’ is released on vinyl & all digital platforms Friday July 24th.")
![Victoria Port - Dont Let Me Fall [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Qp8651DfJLk/mqdefault.jpg "Victoria Port - Dont Let Me Fall [Audio]
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Album: Barefoot In The Garden [EP]
Track: 4 of 5
Title: Dont Let Me Fall
Artist: Victoria Port
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW343
Formats: 12 Vinyl/Digital
Digital Release: 7th November 2025
Physical Release: 7th November 2025
About This Release:
First Word Records are proud to present the sophomore solo EP from Victoria Port.
Barefoot In The Garden is a 5-track selection merging classic soul with contemporary sounds.
Put together from sessions recorded at the world famous Abbey Road Studios in London, and Victorias home studio Candle Shop, this project exemplifies her talents as a singer-songwriter, developing upon the building blocks of her debut EP Did it Again and Victorias work as one half of electronic-soul duo, Anushka (BBE / Tru Thoughts / Brownswood).
On this EP, Victoria is accompanied by a wealth of talented artists in their own right, including frequent collaborators Hemai and JNR Williams, the highly-acclaimed drummer Moses Boyd, and vocalists such as Lea Lea, to name just a few.
The sonic tapestry stitched together on this EP epitomises the quality of British soul music of modern times; a vintage symphonic feel approach with modern-day production techniques, encompassing the Ronson-era of the late great Amy Winehouse, to the pack leaders of nowadays such as SAULT and Jungle. Its a logical progression considering Victorias lifelong influences of US luminaries like Minnie Riperton, Gladys Knight, Nina Simone and Dionne Warwick.
Her fanbase includes Gilles Peterson (BBC 6 Music / Worldwide FM) who has tipped her as an exciting emerging new artist whose sound fits alongside current successful acts like Cleo Sol, Lynda Dawn and Yazmin Lacey.
Victorias previous EP had support from a wide range of tastemakers, including Cerys Matthews, Huey Morgan, Somewhere Soul, Mo Ayoub (Selector Radio), Ronnie Herel (Mi-Soul Radios One to Watch), Tony Minvielle (Jazz FM) and across platforms like Rinse FM, NTS, Soho Radio and Global Soul, whilst her work with Anushka also received airplay from Annie Mac, Jamz Supernova, Huw Stephens and BBC Radio 1.
Victoria says this EP comes from a place of nostalgia. Its kind of reflective of parts of life up to this moment, culminating in Barefoot in the Garden. I guess its me starting to understand the things that are truly important to me. How I want to love and be loved, the way I want to spend my time, and just me starting to filter out a lot of the noise. Sonically its been such a dream to explore elements of old soul and jazz with so many incredible musicians, and to put our own unique spin on the genre.
Already a seasoned live perfomer, additionally to various live appearances solo past & forthcoming including We Out Here, Jazz Cafe, Koko and the London Jazz Festival, Victoria Port is set to be one of the leading lights in the world of British soul music. This EP provides some solid examples as to why.
Barefoot In The Garden is due to be released on vinyl and digital, November 7th 2025.")
![Kaidi Tatham - Kanji [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QtbBLVHNGyk/mqdefault.jpg "Kaidi Tatham - Kanji [Audio]
Download & Stream: https://kud.li/fw317
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#FirstWordRecords #ElectronicaDance #BrokenBeat
Album: Miles Away [ALBUM]
Track: 4 of 10
Title: Kanji
Artist: Kaidi Tatham
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW317
Formats: Vinyl LP/Digital
Digital Release: 28th March 2025
Physical Release: 28th March 2025
About This Release:
First Word Records are very proud to bring you a brand new album from the legendary Kaidi Tatham.
Miles Away is the sixth full-length solo project for the award-winning London-based independent label.
Comprised of 10 new tracks, performed entirely by the multi-instrumentalist himself once again, this is an array of forward-thinking eclectic electronic jazz. Rhodes, pianos, synths, strings, horns and flutes weave in & out atop of vibrant percussion and mind-bending drum patterns, forming a sound that is uniquely King Kaidi.
We begin with the delicate groove of Misty Garden, before the infectious synth-boogie of Sweet Cherry Punch. The almost-Quincy / EWF vibes of lead single So Happy follow, ahead of the mid-tempo stomp of Kanji. Silkie Bantam keeps the energy nice while picking up the BPM a touch, as we reach the half-time title track Miles Away, which also features Kaidi on vocals. Hipsteppin does what it says on the tin; another slice of infectious bruk-tinged jazz-boogie. Then its the return of frequent collaborator, the super-dope MC Uhmeer (aka Jazzy Jeffs son!) on the smooth soulful hip hop bounce of Wave. Hydration brings the funk; clavi keys and some weighty live bass accompany some truly knockin drums that switch in & out. The set closes with a real treat for the reggae steppers; Ku Deh is a short sweet touch of uplifting rock steady.
For those that dont know, Belfast-based Kaidi Tatham has been an innovative powerhouse in the world of British black music for decades. From his early days as one of the pioneers of the broken beat movement, to his recent prominence as a key-player for DJ Jazzy Jeffs PLAYlist project, he has inspired an array of artists and tastemakers across the globe, from Madlib to Gilles Peterson.
The list of artists hes worked and collaborated with reads like a fever dream - Amy Winehouse, Mulatu Astatke, Soul II Soul, Leroy Burgess, Nubya Garcia, Slum Village, Andrew Ashong, Marcos Valle and beyond. Additionally to a number of releases with 2000 Blacks Dego and The Herbaliser, hes also dropped records for Theo Parrishs Sound Signature and Alex Nuts Eglo Records, taking in a number of aliases along the way, including Agent K, Shokazulu, Blakai, Da One Away and Likwid Biskit - the latter two projects alongside IG Culture (New Sector Movements / LCSM). Hes also worked with fellow First Word label-mates like Children of Zeus, Allysha Joy, Darkhouse Family and Eric Lau.
As ever, this album is another truly diverse set from the Grammy-winning Kaidi Kyat, exuding quality and good vibes throughout, crossing genres and borders with intergalactic energy, taking us Miles Away.
Miles Away will be released 28th March 2025 on vinyl & digital.")
![Georgie Sweet - All That We Were [Audio]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/RgM3EZuEqjA/mqdefault.jpg "Georgie Sweet - All That We Were [Audio]
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#FirstWordRecords #SoulRampB #Soul
Album: I Swear To You [ALBUM]
Track: 3 of 12
Title: All That We Were
Artist: Georgie Sweet
Label: First Word Records
Cat#: FW328
Formats: Vinyl LP/Digital
Digital Release: 20th June 2025
Physical Release: 27th June 2025
About This Release:
First Word Records are incredibly proud to bring you I Swear To You; the stunning sophomore album from Georgie Sweet.
Georgie is a singer / songwriter currently based in Brighton, with a uniquely smooth, soulful vocal tone.
Whilst working on her debut record (Misunderstood), Georgie began a songwriting partnership with multi-instrumentalist Marc Rapson, who is on the boards throughout this project. The duo discovered a natural musical connection instantly, and began working on an abundance of beautiful new material shortly after the release of the first album; writing and creating at Rapsons home in Hertfordshire at various sessions from 2021 onwards, culminating in this new 12-track album, I Swear To You.
Despite being one of the UKs best kept secrets, Georgies already been pricking the ears of some highly-respected selectors. The first single from this record (Smaller / All That We Were) received love from tastemakers such as BBC 6 Musics Gilles Peterson (this one melts), Jazz FMs Tony Minvielle (supremely talented) and Clash Magazine (exudes soulful grace), whilst previous material found itself in the crates of legendary luminaries like DJ Jazzy Jeff & DJ Spinna amongst others.
At the end of 2024, Georgie signed to Worldwide Award-winning independent London-based label, First Word Records; although she previously featured before on the label, via the title track of the highly-acclaimed 2021 sophomore album by Children of Zeus, Balance, along with Akemi Fox. Prior to this her debut album Misunderstood dropped back in 2020 on Futuristica Music; an independent imprint run by Deborah Jordan & Simon S, on which Georgie also collaborated with acclaimed producers like K15 and Mecca:83.
An all-round creative soul, away from creating music, Georgie also works as an illustrator and animator. However, her lifelong love of music is unquestionable. Shes been a vocalist from a young age, initially working with her musical parents (a producer and professional singer respectively).
With a hugely diverse set of inspirations ranging from Stevie Wonder to Michael McDonald, Hiatus Kaiyote to Chappell Roan, Mac Miller to Sampha, and George Duke to EW&F, Georgies respect, love and admiration for a wide range of music is clear; from jazz to soul to pop to hip hop.
Her own sound sits within the realm of glo-fi alternative r&b. From powerful piano-led ballads, to head-nod boom bap backdrops, this album exemplifies Georgies eclectic influences and unique talents as a writer and a vocalist, which are growing exponentially. A tapestry of sound that developed whilst Sweet and Rapson moved from the beat-driven vibes of Georgies earlier work, to finding themselves gravitating more and more to the simplicity of the piano and the voice.
Its this shift in styles that encapsulates the sonic and spiritual feel of the entire project, born out of a warm, creative environment, and full to the brim with heart and soul. I Swear To You is a deeply personal reflection on youth, grief and self-acceptance. An homage to childhood, and the transition into adulthood, exploring the range of experiences and emotions that come with that.
The album cover mirrors the essence of the record; a photo of a hopeful, younger version of Georgie, filled with optimism and joy. Despite the emotional highs and lows expressed throughout the songs, the overarching message remains one of hope; encouraging listeners to keep looking toward the future, to never give up, and to hold onto that youthful sense of possibility.
From the ethereal acapella opening of The Ones We Loved, through to the irresistible jazz-hop bounce of tracks like As I Am, Smaller and In My Stride, to the midtempo soulful bop of Equal Measure and previously-released Energy, to epic ballads like Bedsheets and first single All That We Were, to the more melancholy tones of Patricia and Maybe in a Different Life, to the almost-gospel flavoured closing title track, this is a truly accomplished and timeless piece of work from edge to edge.
I Swear To You is released on vinyl and digital worldwide, Friday June 20th 2025.")
