As the iconic Brighton i360 Tower prepares to host Russell Small’s debut daytime party, Elevation, anticipation is building for the event and the release of his latest album, Earworm. Known for his influential roles in Phats & Small and the Freemasons, Russell’s long-standing career continues to evolve with fresh collaborations, new sounds, and a commitment to soulful dance music.
Earworm, set to drop on 27th September, promises a unique blend of house, soul, and infectious energy - a fitting title for a project already lodged in listeners’ minds. Buy/Stream it via https://bfan.link/earworm-fm030.
With Carl Cox joining him for the Brighton event and a lineup of esteemed collaborators on the album, Russell sat down to discuss the inspiration behind Earworm, his love for Brighton, and the changes he’s witnessed in the dance music scene over the last three decades.
Your new album, Earworm, will be released on 27th September. What inspired the title, and how does it reflect the music within?
Lulu’s brother, Billy Lawrie, co-wrote the top line on “Shine Forever.” Every time we played him a track in the studio, he’d say, “That’s a real earworm.” The phrase stuck with me and DNO P. It’s such a great fit for the album, as we made tracks in lockdown that we’d want to hear on the dancefloor—catchy, soulful tunes. We kept going and ended up with enough material for an album. Even though we didn’t plan for it, the tracks work well together.
You’ve collaborated with DNO P on this album. How did this partnership come about, and what unique elements does DNO P bring to the project?
We’re both Brighton-born and have been friends for a long time. Dino (DNO P) and I always talked about working together, as we both started DJing as teenagers in clubs along the South Coast. Dino’s known for his psytrance career, but he’s also rooted in acid house from the ’90s. His knowledge of trance helps blend different sounds and rhythms, which adds depth to our productions. This partnership evolved organically, and after nearly 10 years, we knew it was time to release an album.
Earworm features an impressive lineup of guest artists. Can you tell us about working with Ultra Nate, The Illustrious Blacks, Lulu, and Katherine Ellis?
Working with this group has been a privilege. These collaborations came together quite naturally through mutual connections and conversations. During lockdown, we worked remotely, which brought surprising results. It’s been my most relaxed and musically satisfying album, as we had no pressure from a record label to churn out hits. I’ve also reconnected with familiar faces like Amanda Wilson, Katherine Ellis, and Ben Ofoedu. It’s been rewarding to see where we are now as artists.
Any memorable moments from these collaborations?
One standout moment was recording with Lulu in our Brighton studio, which used to be an underground public toilet! Another was with Ben Ofoedu, who people will remember from our Phats & Small days. We hadn’t seen each other in 20 years, then bumped into each other by chance at a gig. A week later, he was recording vocals for our track “Jeux Sans Frontières” with Gabriella Kaye. That’s one of my favourites from the album, not just for the result but for the process.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of your global hit Turn Around with Phats & Small. How does it feel to reflect on that success while launching new music?
Now that things have slowed down a bit, I can finally reflect! Back then, it was all a whirlwind—going from weekly residencies in Brighton to traveling the world overnight. There were years when I took over 200 flights, and that pace continued with the Freemasons. The level of creativity was intense, but it wasn’t sustainable. Looking back, I’m really proud of what we achieved. Now, with Earworm, success for me means people dancing to it and more invites to play it live.
You’re hosting “Elevation” at Brighton’s i360 Tower on 29th September to launch the album. What can attendees expect from this event?
Elevation is my debut daytime party in Brighton. It’s an intimate gig with Funktion One sound, and we’re revisiting that relaxed Sunday party vibe from the old days. Dino and I will perform a DJ-led live showcase of Earworm, with several featured artists performing their tracks. It’s going to be a first for us all. Carl Cox, a long-time friend, will also join us. It’s going to be a celebration of soulful house and unforgettable beats.
Carl Cox is joining you for the Elevation event. How did this come about, and what does it mean to have him involved?
Carl’s been a solid friend and fellow Brighton resident for years. He’s always supported my music, and we’ve done a lot of gigs together. We’d planned to do something together this year, and his schedule just happened to align with Earworm’s release. He’ll be playing a House and Classics set, which will be a perfect fit for the vibe we’re aiming for.
Brighton has played a significant role in your music journey. How has the city shaped your career and this new project?
Brighton has been central to my music partnerships—from Jason to James and now Dino. The city’s energy, clubbing scene, and people ready to party have influenced me from day one. I DJ-ed at parties from around thirteen and got into dance tracks with big vocal hooks thanks to Brighton’s iconic clubs. The city has been a unique place for creativity and collaboration.
Looking back at your 30-year career, what’s been the most significant change in the dance music industry?
Social media’s impact on the industry has been massive. It’s changed how we find new music and how it’s promoted. For some, DJing has become more about the image than the skills. The dominance of big brands has also made it harder for smaller labels and clubs to reach new audiences. We’ve lost many smaller venues, and it’s more important than ever to support our local networks. It’s back to basics in many ways.
Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring producers and DJs?
First, don’t give up. Keep working hard, and make yourself heard by promotors and labels. Second, develop your own style. If you’re starting out, find a residency and learn how to read a crowd. Lastly, look after your mental health. There’s more awareness now, which is great. It’s been a wild journey for me, and I wouldn’t change a thing, but knowing what I do now would have made it easier.
Russell Small & DNO P’s ‘Earworm’ album is out on 27th September. Buy/ Stream it via: https://bfan.link/earworm-fm030.
Russell Small presents Elevation at Brighton’s i360 with Carl Cox on Sunday, 29th September. Buy your tickets via: https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Brighton/Brighton-I360/Russell-Small-Music-Presents-Elevation-with-Carl-Cox/39249609/.
Russell Small
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