Fresh off the heels of the internationally-televised 2004 Dancestar USA Awards show, Ultra Records is again at the top of their game with their latest commercial compilation "Dancestar USA Radio Hits 2004." Even though many of the songs have been released for a while, Ultra delivers a perfect collection just in time for the summer party season. If this CD is a sign of what is in store for the US electronic music scene in the future, then we have something to be very excited about.
This unmixed collection of ear candy begins with the international smash by Angel City, "Love Me Right (Oh Sheila)" and continues with "Take Me to the Clouds" by LMC v. U2, which samples "With Or Without You." After more than a decade of the proliferation of samples being the major building block for a number of top dance tracks, it still surprises me how creative a musician can be with the use of them. Another track with heavy sample use is Dannii Minogue's "Don't Want to Lose This Feeling" which samples Madonna's "Into the Groove" (though 'sample' is an understatement). Using 80's dance tracks for the backing of her songs works for Dannii, but it would be nice to hear something a little more authentic.
As far as pure, aesthetic dance tracks, "Cruising" by N&K vs. Denis the Menace feat. Alex Prince (could any more names be included?) certainly fits that description and is a song that captures the laid-back, carefree, spirit of summer. Another great tune is "Stand Back" by Linus Loves feat. Sam Obernik (of Tim Deluxe "It Just Won't Do" fame), which is one of the best covers (Stevie Nicks and Prince) I've heard in a while. For the more bold, club-oriented (but equally appealing) tracks, Ultra added dance-floor fillers such as Ferry Corsten's "Rock Your Body Rock" and Eric Morillo's remix of The Crystal Method's latest single "Born too Slow."
Two of the most the most stylistically and musically mature works of this compilation are "As the Rush Comes" by Motorcycle, and "Burned With Desire" by Armin Van Buuren which features vocals by Justine Suissa. These trance delights are everywhere, being featured on numerous compilations, which represents their wide audience appeal. These songs represent why vocal trance is still immensely popular, but it's great to see a diversity of styles on this CD.
Because this was quoted in the liner notes twice, it will be repeated again here: "Given the ratings success of WKTU, WQSX, and WPYM, there's no doubt that this music provides the feel and energy level that no other format can accomplish." This is an exciting, energetic assortment that will keep you entertained until the next Dancestar USA compilation.
