The DJ Networx series is known for its hard-hitting techno trance music, and like other compilations from DJ Dean, it lines up an all-star cast of mixers and trance/techno artists. This two-CD set ranges from such artists like Mario Lopez and Cascada to Pulsedriver and Brooklyn Bounce, with such mainstays like Rank 1 and DJ Dean himself.
With forty tracks on two CDs, there is definitely a bit of everything for all listeners as we are treated to some great female trance and some hardcore floor-thumping instrumental techno trance. The first CD is introduced by the edgy rock-driven, bass-induced track "Sex Bass & Rock'n'Roll" by Brooklyn Bounce, which is a great way to start a mix and definitely has no fear of getting the party started quickly. We are also treated to a really good vocal track remix by Megara vs. DJ Lee of Cascada's "How Do You do" which continues the bouncing vibe of the starting track even though it feels lost at times with it slow airy vocals sandwiched in-between the pulsating bass beats. Speaking of Megara vs. DJ Lee, the track "The Megara 2005" is represented by the Deepforces mix and definitely keeps the set running on high note. Another great track is Patrick Bunton's "Listen!" which was also used on the third volume of the Tunnel Trance America series and it definitely delivers on this set too. Other highlights also include Pulsedriver's "Intension" and also the remix of Mario Lopez's "I Can't Believe it (Biscaya)" which blends in perfectly with each other.
The second CD seems to take a funkier tone than the first and definitely seems geared for some serious partying. The first song, DJ Bomba's "Crazy Pipe," is just straight up funky and hilarious and the beat is infectious and you can't help but head to the dance floor. Unfortunately it's followed by a somewhat generic track by Tocadisco called "You're Not Good for Me" and the vocal trance seems to lose the great vibe that was started on the set. That quickly changes though with the absolutely amazing track "The Drums" by Cosmic Gate. Another great funky tune is DJ Dean's "Feel It!" which combines a great vocal loop with some great thumping beats. After this though, the set seems to lose its energy and focus with subpar tracks from Rank 1, Desperate Deejays, and even another track from DJ Dean which fails to excite. The set does however end on a solid note with Leung and Wan's "Coming Down" which has the standard middle buildup and then sends the set to its final climax.
While this compilation does entertain and has some exceptional tracks, it seems to lose its focus during its play and sometimes fails to maintain its momentum. I expected a bit more from Tunnel Club and DJ Dean since their previous works have always been exceptional. Hopefully this is just a small hiccup in the series and future releases will continue the high standards we have come to expect from them.
