Rudimental Unveils Plans for ‘The Lost Tapes’ Featuring Ed Sheeran

British drum and bass group Rudimental has announced an exciting new project: a compilation titled The Lost Tapes, which will feature unreleased collaborations with a host of major artists, including Ed Sheeran and Raye. The band revealed this development during a recent interview following their performance at the Reading Festival, where they also celebrated the release of their fifth studio album, Rudim3ntal, on September 8, 2023.

The band, comprising members Piers Aggett, Kesi Dryden, and Leon “Locksmith” Rolle, shared that they have accumulated a substantial collection of unreleased tracks over the years that could easily fill the upcoming album. Piers Aggett emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “There’s a Raye track there that could have easily made this album.” He revealed that their collaborations with Ed Sheeran date back as far as eight years, indicating a treasure trove of material waiting to be explored.

In discussing the potential album, Kesi Dryden suggested a fitting title, The Lost Tapes, to signify the unreleased tracks that have long been hidden away. “Just put out all the tunes that should have come out that never came out,” he remarked, highlighting the excitement surrounding these tracks. Locksmith added a light-hearted comment about generational differences, quipping, “The only thing is, you’re going to have an 18-year-old wondering what a tape is.”

Rudimental’s latest album marks their first new release in four years, though the band has remained prolific in the studio during that time. Piers noted that they had written approximately 3,000 songs in preparation for their latest album, emphasizing the creative process that led to their recent work. He mentioned that many tracks were written even after the album was initially completed, illustrating their dedication to refining their music.

Looking ahead, Aggett shared that they are already in the early stages of their next album, which is approximately 70 percent complete. The band has a history of successful collaborations, having worked with artists such as Anne-Marie and Emeli Sandé, and they are now set to launch their own record label in 2026. Kesi expressed their commitment to supporting new talent, stating, “As Rudimental, we’ve always been a platform for artists,” and underscoring their role in nurturing emerging vocalists and producers.

In addition to their musical endeavors, the band has made a significant impact on the UK music scene by championing a variety of artists over the years, including Ella Henderson and Charlotte Plank. Their forward-thinking approach demonstrates not only their dedication to their craft but also their commitment to fostering the next generation of musical talent.

As Rudimental prepares to unveil The Lost Tapes, anticipation builds for what promises to be a remarkable collection of music that showcases their illustrious collaborations with some of the industry’s biggest names. The combination of their rich history and innovative future projects positions them as a significant force in the contemporary music landscape.