Preview: Baker Street 5th Anniversary Sampler

Baker Street is one of those labels which consistently delivers musically without ever creating much fuss or hype. Based in Leeds and run by Paul Hardy, Baker Street has spent half a decade popping out dancefloor gems tailored to the more discerning DJ.

Moodymanc, Sei A, Sasse, Lee Mortimer, Demarkus Lewis and many more stalwarts of the scene have appeared on the label, and to celebrate their birthday they are releasing a full length LP featuring brand new remixes of their finest tracks.

I was sent a 6 track sampler of the release, which is available from April 9th in all major download stores, and I'm happy to report that all of the mixes are very good indeed. In particular, look out for Paul Hardy & McKai's remix of Paul Hardy's 'Ninja Slipper', and Jay Shepheard's sublime remix of 'Dust' (also composed by Hardy).

I believe it's no coincidence that my two picks on the anniversary sampler are produced by the label boss himself. Freerange & Lost My Dog are just two examples of many great labels whose owners have created much of their most memorable output, and Baker Street fits into the same mold. There's something special about a small label run by a great producer; creativity happens more easily, artistic respect is mutual, and a unique style is naturally achieved.

So here's to Baker Street, and another five years of fine house music bearing the image of a certain fictional pipe-smoking gentleman.

Paul Hardy & McKai have produced a mix to accompany the album release, which is available to stream or download here:

5th Anniversary Mixed by Paul Hardy & McKai by Baker Street Recordings

www.bakerstreetrecordings.com