DJ/production super-collab Jazzanova is at it again, this time with "Mixing," the mother of all mix CDs. The six-piece Berlin-based group came together quite randomly in the mid-1900s as a result of a club's label compilation that never come to light. Since then, they have planted themselves firmly on the map of highly sought-after remixers and producers. Following the release late in 2003 of remixes from their debut full-length project "In Between," they have put together a collection of tunes that represent their personal tastes and DJing style.
Starting off in the hip-hop realm with a rarity from label mate Dimlite, "Sponsored by the Alphabet," the mix moves glibly into the mid-tempo dance groove customary of a Jazzanova DJ set with Phoojun's "Rainbow." Carol Williams early-80s classic "Can't Get Away" demonstrates the collective's deep roots in soul and R&B music. Like many artists making music classified as "nu-jazz" and "broken beat," Jazzanova's inspirations can be found among greats like vibraphonist Roy Ayers, keyboardist Johnny Hammond and the Mizell brothers production team. Included on their long list of classic favourites is Patrice Rushen's "Let Your Heart Be Free." For "Mixing," Jazzanova remade this ballad into a techy-disco groove featuring London-based vocalist Nicola "Nix" Kramer.
Also featured on the CD release are the Ame remix of "Glow and Glare" and the Atjazz remix of "Dance the Dance" from "In Between." The label released both remixes together as the first single from "Mixing." Deyampert's gorgeous nu-jazz dance "Held Him First" fits nicely between the two Jazzanova remixes, taking the CD for a decidedly jazz-flavoured turn. From Slope's ethereal "Mousse," the CD segues downtempo into Bahamadia's classic "UKnowHowWeDo." Jazzanova finishes off the journey with two true soul ballads, Bugge Wessletoft's "Try" and George Levin's "Let There Be Love," written especially for this mix compilation.
