FSOJ Vol. 11 highlights and exemplifies the present and future (of course) of electronic jazz sounds with this compilation series, now in its 11th episode. Changing from previous releases with more downtempo orchestration, this release reveals an assortment of tracks which include a more uptempo, minimal-inspired, dancier sound. It's put out by Compost Records, based in Germany, which has gathered quite a fan base with these inspiring sounds.
On Volume 11 we hear 12 tracks assembling up and coming artists from many different corners of the world. Kicking things off in the introduction is "Salome" by Joash – a well thought out nu-jazz sound with a string arrangement, backed by solid percussion and lingering vibes. I enjoyed Solomun & Stimming's dually produced "Eiszauber" – a German influenced soft-house sound with playful vibes and keyboards. Next in the noticeable category was Koop's "Drum Rhythm A" with its Latin jazz snippets sampled from different periods, offering up a high beat rhythm and worldly composition. And Zeynep Erbay's "Flowers" shows her Istanbul roots and radio disc jockey influence as she delivers an electro-glitch number that travels delightfully with its soft, interesting use of programming.
Overall, the feature on Volume 11's collection is the variety of different styles and the view into the style of futuristic electronic music where jazz is the dominate influence and house beats are the base medium. My only criticism is that some of the tracks sounded as if they were produced for the sake of obscurity, and left me wanting to connect with the music more.
Each artist here has a chance to stand out and be seen as unique for the album definitely sounds like a compilation should – the kind we used to make back in high school and label "mix tape" because it showcases each artist as having their own vision. That in itself makes the record worth a listen!
