About the ruralsNo one ever expects it.In fact, people often scratch their heads, puzzled by the thought that the picturesque pastures of Devonshire, England can be home to the distinctive sound of delicate jazzy beats laid over the sweetest soul drenched vocals.

Yet, it's true.Since 1994, The Rurals have been perfecting a unique style of live elements melted with thumping electronic music from their countryside haven.It all began when singer Marie (or 'Tweek' as she is better known) met musician turned DJ/producer Andy Compton.

The two eventually married and settled in the English countryside. Since then, the group have been prolific, releasing over 50 EPs and 9 long-players on their self-owned label, Peng. They've also worked with Motown, Naked Music, EMI South Africa, and Large Records amongst many others.

Their latest album, Nettle Soul, is another Rural's demonstration of how House music can be composed as real songs with lyrics and instrumentation. Tweek provides sexy, melodic vocals over Maceo-style sax, guitar arpeggios, Dub style sub bass, and enrapturing Hammond chords.

They have also just completed a couple of remixes of Marvin Gayes Aint Nothing But The Real Thing for Motown records, and recently had 2 tracks commissioned for the hit US Television series Six Feet Under.

Next year marks a milestone for The Rurals, marking eleven years of releasing the music that has won them fans worldwide including Larry Heard (the legendary Mr Fingers, who often invites The Rurals to play live on his radio show), Scott Silva (KCRW), Scott Sterling of URB Magazine and DJ Magazines KateWildblood.

Unlike many in the world of electronica, The Rurals are making music that's more than laptop soul… theirs is an expansive of genre and style.If you'd like to interview The Rurals or discuss their source of inspiration, the upcoming tour dates and what else is planned for the 11-year anniversary please contact us at rurals@peng.

co.ukcheckouronlinesuperstore www.peng.co.uk/shop myspace - www.myspace.com/theruralsweb- www.therurals.com