"Book now to avoid disappointment…" is the opening theme for this (dare I say) infamous mix from the utterly renowned !K7 record label. Before I can personally give my insight and review for this elite mix, I feel compelled to insert an overview directly from the !K7 database – as follows…
!K7 records was started in 1996. Founded in parallel to the already succesfull "DJ-Kicks" mix compilation series, the label was launched to establish a long-term platform for artistic and musical innovation. Early releases from cutting edge producers like Nicolette, K-Hand, Nick Holder, and Terrence Parker were released to critical acclaim. In addition to their own releases, they also started a label cooperation with G-Stone Recordings, the label of Kruder & Dorfmeister, which became a very fruitful partnership. Teamed up with !K7, releases from Kruder & Dorfmeister, Tosca and Peace Orchestra became some of the most highly regarded - and successful - electronic releases ever. Further signings included internationally regardings artists Smith & Mighty, Ian Simmonds, A Guy Called Gerald, Herbert feat. Dani Siciliano, and Rae & Christian. German producers like Shantel, Funkstörung , and Terranova were also engaged, and have now advanced into the international league of electronic musicians. In the new millenium, promising new artists like Swayzak, Earl Zinger, Spacek, Mike Ladd, and Ghost Cauldron have signed at !K7 and extended their list of top-shelf artists.
In the meantime, the DJ-Kicks series, with mix CDs by Kruder & Dorfmeister, Kid Loco, Rockers Hi-Fi, Nightmares On Wax, Thievery Corporation, Playgroup, and Tiga advanced to become the "most important DJ mix series ever" (Mixmag). And !K7 Records has grown into a high profile label with offices in Berlin, London and New York.
'The Black Edition' from this renowned DJ Kicks series spotlights incredible unreleased material, remixes, and re-reconstructions from the !K7 archive catalogue - Funky break/down beats mashed with heavy synths, transistor turntablism, distorted indie-rock guitars, spoken-word/jazz/R&B/hip-hip vox, and jazz-influenced sounds aplenty. This mix series is not only a calling card for !K7, it is an 'In Your Face' approach to the industry as a whole – an approach that plainly states "Hey folks, we've go every sound you can imagine – so listen to this."
Since its conception in 1996, !K7 has grown into a dominate force in the electronica, post-genre, and experimental music realm. With three international offices to ensure good healthy business, the imprint continues to grow by leaps and bounds. If you are not familiar with this label, do not miss out – check out their website for an experience that will enlighten your life.
