Skinshape: The Psychedelic Soul and Instrumental Funk Architect

Skinshape is the solo musical project of British multi-instrumentalist and producer Will Dorey. Hailing from London, the artist has carved a distinct niche in the modern psychedelic and instrumental funk scene, building a dedicated global following through a prolific and consistent stream of self-released albums and EPs.

Early career

Will Dorey began his musical journey as the bassist for the indie rock band Palace in the early 2010s. He launched the Skinshape project in 2013 as a personal creative outlet, allowing him to explore a wider range of influences from 1960s and 70s psychedelic rock, soul, funk, and world music. The project's debut, the Life & Love EP, was released independently in 2014, immediately establishing the project's warm, analog sound and Dorey's talent for crafting immersive instrumental grooves.

Breakthrough

Skinshape's breakthrough to a wider international audience came with the 2015 album Oracolo. Released through his own label, Lewis Recordings, the album's lead single, I Didn't Know, became a viral sleeper hit on digital platforms, amassing tens of millions of streams. This organic online success cemented Skinshape's reputation as a leading force in the contemporary psychedelic soul revival, with Oracolo often cited as a defining entry in his catalog.

Key tracks

I Didn't Know — This dreamy, flute-driven instrumental became Skinshape's signature track, driving the viral discovery of the Oracolo album.

Arms of the Sun — A prime example of his psychedelic funk style, this track showcases intricate basslines and hazy guitar work.

Don't Call My Name — Featuring soulful vocals, this song highlights Dorey's ability to seamlessly blend instrumental and vocal-led compositions.

Filoxiny — From the 2017 album of the same name, this track exemplifies his incorporation of global rhythms and expansive, cinematic arrangements.

After Midnight — A later-career standout, this smooth, jazz-inflected piece underscores the consistency and evolution of his sound.

Following the success of Oracolo, Dorey maintained a remarkably steady output, releasing albums like Filoxiny (2017) and Umoja (2019) that further refined his blend of instrumental psychedelia, funk, and world music. He has collaborated with artists such as vocalist Rami Sirhan and continues to operate primarily through his independent Lewis Recordings, giving him complete creative control. His music has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and online media, broadening his reach beyond the typical music release cycle.

Fans of Skinshape's textured, retro-inspired sound often enjoy the work of similar artists from the UK scene. Khruangbin shares a deep affinity for global instrumental grooves and 70s aesthetics. The Magic City Orchestra explores a similar space of cinematic, library music-inspired funk. The psychedelic rock leanings can be heard in the music of Tame Impala, particularly in the project's earlier, more guitar-focused work.

Skinshape's distinctive blend of psychedelic soul and instrumental funk has earned him regular rotation on a variety of radio formats. His tracks are staples on independent music radio stations and online radio streams dedicated to alternative rock, psychedelic music, and eclectic funk, providing a perfect backdrop for listeners seeking depth and groove.

You can hear the immersive sounds of Skinshape on radio stations featured on our website. Explore the diverse playlists on onairium.com to discover this artist's catalog and other pioneering acts in the modern psychedelic and funk genres.