When John-Christian Ulrich met Angela Johnson at the State University of New York art college, they formed the internationally acclaimed acid jazz outfit, Cooly’s Hot Box. After a string of singles in the late 90s, a full album was released in 2002 on UK imprint Dome Records. A year earlier, John-Christian had formed another group to explore more up-tempo music with bassist Jason Kriveloff and keyboardist Ethan White. Their experimental jam sessions eventually led to Tortured Soul’s debut LP ‘Introducing’, with additional production from Osunlade and subsequent remixes from DJ Spinna.

‘In Transit’, their much anticipated follow up album boasted ‘Your Dream Is My Dream’ as the lead track from its sampler; the smooth funk bass, space bound synths and the return of John-Christian’s tender melodies gave a tempting glimpse of things to come.

Their presence is captivating, their energy infectious, they are the trailblazing heroes of live, soulful house.