Continuing to push the boundaries separating indie rock, dance, and jazz, 20/20 Soundsystem drop science on this rock solid double CD release. Disc One, "Sweatshop Studios," features nine wildly diverse offerings from the retro-funk stylings of "Grey Clouds" and the 80s modern rock flavor of "Won't Bother Me" to the minimal house-based "Tape" and the soulful "High" with vocalist Diane Charlemagne. Disc two - recorded live at Sonar in Barcelona, features all the energy and vibe that only a live performance can provide. With rocking beats from DJ Ralph Lawson, crowd noise, and live accompaniment from the rest of the Soundsystem crew, this is a compelling look at one of the best live acts out there at the moment. ***** (5 of 5)
Endwise – Jeff Bennett – Plastic City (DE)
Jeff Bennett is a diverse and wildly-gifted producer. Influenced by artists as diverse as Richie Hawtin, Juan Atkins, 808 State, and Terry Lee Brown Jr., most of his tracks are deep with techno influences or techy with restrained undertones. This LP features 8 tracks of incomparable offerings, with standouts including the retro-flavored "Become," the lush and exquisite "Beginning," and the immense, electro-flavored "Moonset." Class from front to back. **** (4 of 5)
Movements – Booka Shade – Get Physical Music (DE)
2005 proved to be an amazing year for Get Physical Music. They were voted label of the year by many publications and got heavy play from DJs across the spectrum (and the world). Unfazed by this success, they have come out of the gate in 2006 with the same passion and fire. Leading the charge is the ever excellent Booka Shade (Walter Merziger and Arno Kammermeier), and this is their newest full length release. Without getting into every track, let me simply say that this is the best album to this point in 2006. Nearly every track is a gem and there are no less than 4 tracks here that should be number one on my chart. Find this, buy this, play this – now!! ***** (5 of 5)
Ekspozicija TRI – Various (mixed by Cristian Varela) – Explicit Musick (CZ)
Spanish techno DJ and producer Cristian Varela drops a scorching set recorded live at Love Club, in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Featuring tracks from Alex Under, D-Nox, Gaetano Parisio, and Locutus – this collection takes you from simple, minimal beginnings, to blazing full-on dancefloor bangers and back. The mixing is on point (save a few places), and Varela's use of effects show his talents as a deck maestro. As a snapshot of techno circa 2006, this is as solid a mix as you are likely to find. **** (4 of 5)