Strictly Rhythm to relaunch via Defected Records

After a 4 year hiatus, iconic dance label Strictly Rhythm will relaunch via a strategic alliance with Simon Dunmore of Defected Records. Simon Dunmore assumes the role of creative head in the new venture, working alongside founder Mark Finkelstein.

Dunmore will be responsible for reactivating the catalogue via singles re-issues and compilations. Focus will also be centre on new signings in order to re-establish the imprint in the contemporary dance market. The labels classic catalogue will also be available digitally for the first time ever.

The New York dance legend first opened its doors in 1989 and quickly rose to pre-eminence first with underground tracks by the likes of Roger Sanchez, Todd Terry, Danny Tenaglia, Armand Van Helden and Masters At Work and later with crossover records by Reel 2 Real, Ultra Naté, Barbara Tucker, Josh Wink and Wamdue Project. In 2000 the label entered into a joint venture with Warner Music, an arrangement that ended with the label closing its doors two years later.

Strictly Rhythm's official website is soon to be re-launched.

"I can’t think of a better person to help reactivate Strictly Rhythm than Simon Dunmore. He has an ear for the music, has worked with many of the producers and artists who have released records on the label and we’ve been friends for 15 years." comments Mark Finkelstein.

"I am often quoted saying that Defected aspires to be as revered as Strictly Rhythm was ‘back in the day’. The label was the starting point for anybody who is anybody in today’s scene, be it as a producer, a DJ or a collector, Strictly Rhythm left on them an indelible mark," says Dunmore.