Prolouge

When Shapeshifters, aka Simon Marlin and Max Reich, put out a few promo copies of their debut single at the end of 2003, an instrumental track entitled 'Lola's Theme' (inspired by Lola, Simon's wife), little did they realise exactly how well it would be received. It's funky groove, lush strings, and uplifting vibe proved irresistible. The underground buzz over a handful of copies soon became a tidal wave of fevered discussion and anticipation. DJ's, music fans, and clubbers across the world clamoured for a copy or at least a listen of the track from dance music's hottest new band.

Interview

MPFS - First off then, how did you two get together and create Shapeshifters?

Shapeshifters – Myself and Max have been working together for about 8 yrs. I met Max in Sweden while Dj'ing out there, I was working for a small Indie label at the time and Max played me his stuff and I signed him straight away.
We have been working together ever since on different projects and in November 2003 we decided to set up Nocturnal groove, along with Lola and make music together for the first time as a partnership rather than as his A+R/Manager and that's when Shapeshifters was born!

MPFS - You've both been a part of the dance music industry long before Shapeshifters, can you tell us a little about what you were doing and what prompted the move towards house music?

Shapeshifters - I personally have always been a house head, Max was a little darker and techier than me but before that he was a Hip House kid. We have both been doing this in various ways since dance exploded with rave Acid House back in 88. We both put on parties and made records and somehow made a living from Dance Music.

MPFS - Miami's winter music conference helped put Lola's theme out there, immediately becoming the anthem so to speak, is that the moment you knew it was going to be huge?

Shapeshifters – Errrr no! But it helped. We have only just started to believe it, as we have been in denial till now. But we have been playing all over the world recently and it's hitting home very fast how many people love it which is very humbling.

MPFS - The inclusion of lyrics by Cookie has been met by both criticism and admiration, what prompted the decision to add them?

Shapeshifters - We always knew some people would give us a hard time about adding a song, they always do! But we think we have kept the integrity of what the original was always about.
Our answer to those who are disappointed is keep playing the original.
If house is to survive it needs to be represented on daytime radio from time to time and it's not going to be able to compete if there are no songs.

MPFS - Cookie's had her fare share of excitement in the music industry, what with working along side Kylie and Depeche Mode, will you be working with her again in future projects?

Shapeshifters - Yes, of course she is a real find and an exciting talent we are already working on other records. We will also work with other singers and musicians for the album.

MPFS - Everyone's quick to jump on the "clubbing is dead" bandwagon, yet with Lola's Theme reaching world renowned status, what do you say to these people?

Shapeshifters - House is a feeling!

MPFS - Who are your inspirations?

Shapeshifters– Jonnie Taylor & Patrick Moten, Stevie Wonder, Fleetwood Mac, Tears for Fears, Al Green, Frankie Knuckles, David Morales and Lola to name a few.

MPFS - Do you both Dj or is it a production thing only?

Shapeshifters - We both play out as Shapeshifters and I have a residency at nocturnal @ the aka in London which I do under my own name.

MPFS - If you could go back and change anything during your career in music, what would it be?

Shapeshifters - Very little, any mistakes or low times we have had has only made us more determined to succeed.

MPFS– And finally what's next for Shapeshifters, and how do you think you'll cope with the pitfalls of following up after such a huge track?

Shapeshifters - We are going to continue Ding and we are just putting a Mix Compilation together. Then we will work on the album and around Feb. 2005 release another single and then the album.
We will also release some underground cuts on our label nocturnal groove.
As far as follow-ups we'll just continue doing what we do and hope people like it. You can be sure of one thing though, it will be House!

From all the staff at MPFSPromotions we'd like to thank Shapeshifters for their time and wish them all the best in 2004 and beyond. Don't forget, Lola's Theme, the years biggest funky hit by far is released on the 19th July. If you've not picked up that hot promo yet, keep your eye out for the official release soon.

Nocturnal Groove website
Positiva Website

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