UK producer Tom Carruthers returns to Skylax with ‘Deepline’, a five-track release that digs deep into the foundations of house music while keeping things firmly rooted in the present.
Known for his machine-led approach on labels such as L.I.E.S., Clone Jack For Daze and Craigie Knowes, Carruthers has built a reputation on restraint, groove and feel rather than excess. His work was recently featured, showcasing a more ravey, synth-heavy vibe. This new outing continues his streak of form, offering a record that feels classic without leaning too deeply into nostalgia.
Here we look at the A1, ‘Deepline‘ sets the tone from the first bar. It’s a slick, understated house jam that oozes class, driven by a blissed-out chord sequence that gently cycles without ever becoming predictable. There’s a clear Detroit influence running through the track, not just in the harmonic language but in the sense of space and patience it allows itself. Stuttering drum machine rhythms keep things moving with classic 909-sounding hi-hats and a powerful clap that cuts through the mix like butter.
There’s also a subtle nod to the deeper side of Chicago here. The mood recalls that Moodymann sweet spot, where soul, swing and repetition meet, but Carruthers filters it through a more minimal, stripped-back lens. Nothing feels overworked. Every element earns its place, from the soft push of the low end to the crisp percussion that gives the track its quiet momentum. The clever use of the high energy vocal gives the track that big room energy, without going too far.
This is what makes the track particularly effective. It’s subtle, yet big and full of character. Versatility to a tee. You can easily imagine it lifting the room in an intimate, sweaty basement, where details matter and the system is pushed just enough. At the same time, the groove is broad and confident enough to hold its own on a much bigger stage like Dekmantel or a huge festival setting. Genuine house music filled with soul that understands both context and timing.
As an opening track, ‘Deepline’ captures the essence of the wider release: a respectful dialogue between late ’80s machine funk and early ’90s deep house, delivered with Carruthers’ trademark clarity. It’s pure, functional and soulful without ever feeling sentimental. A strong A1 that does exactly what it needs to do, and a reminder of why Carruthers remains such a trusted name when it comes to timeless house music.
Buy the record from deejay.de
More info on Tom Carruthers
Instagram | Soundcloud | Bandcamp | Discogs
More info on Skylax Records
Instagram | Soundcloud | Bandcamp | Discogs
