Eleven tracks of wildly disparate music, fusing elements of punk, electro, house and pop with startling effect. "The Cut," which was produced by Zombie Nation and brings forth funky tech-house rhythms and retro-flavored vocals. "One More Try" combines the uplifting vocals of Anthony Hegarty with simple rhythms that sound more old school Casio than modern production. I would be remiss if I claimed that this disc works across the board, as there are certainly spots where it falls down. But as a wildly innovative and creative composition, I thoroughly enjoyed this release. ** (2 of 5)
Synaptic - Pascal Feos – Level Non Zero (DE)
One of the most dependable producers in the world of techno, Pascal Feos is back with another collection of original productions. Fourteen tracks are presented here, all sequenced and programmed for a faultless, continuous journey. "G-Tone" is an undemanding mover that starts the ball rolling in the right direction. "Impulse" is another hot stop along the way, with an effected bassline, grinding beats and forceful, depth charge stabs. "Stargazer" brings up the rear, taking things from laid-back beginnings, to full on dancefloor banger. From front to back, this is an extraordinary release from the mind of a true EDM genius. **** (4 of 5)
Modified Times – The Shift – Blunted Funk (US)
Brooklyn based DJ Scottie B and Producer Chris Tempas have assembled quite a crew of young talented musicians for The Shift. With guitarists Brian Fegan, sax player Mike DeVellis, bassist Jeff Angell, and vocalists Rhiannon, they have all the elements to make quality music of nearly any sort. This LP is beautifully packaged and full of compelling, quality productions. Twelve diverse jams run the gamut from funky and soulful, to laid back and energetic. For my money, the standout cuts include silky houser "No Accessories," "Never Enough," featuring the lovely vocals of Rhiannon, and two downtempo gems- "Play All Mode" and "Minus Man." Mark this down as another quality release from Scottie B and the crew.
**** (4 of 5)
Balance 009 – Various (mixed by Paulo Mojo) – Stomp (AU)
Known for putting up a tireless fight against genres, Paulo Mojo lives up to his eclectic reputation, by selecting the best bits from a variety of genres and styles on this new release for the Australian-based Balance series. With tracks from artists as diverse as Alexkid, Pepe Braddock, Robert Owens, and Michael De Hey, this is a wildly interesting journey. The mixing and programming are on point, and the overall vibe of the set is smooth – starting off with laid back grooves and finishing up with full-on techno movers. Looking for a quality soundtrack to your next long drive? Grab a copy of this disc and let Paulo work his magic spell. **** (4 of 5)
Ekspozicija 04 – Various (mixed by Slam) - Explicit Musick (CZ)
Coming off their excellent Night Drive mix of 2005, Scottish techno masters Slam are back with another quality, 22 track excursion. From the opening beats of the deeply emotive "Live2Live" from Layo, through the funky "Una Aduja En Pajar" from Alex Under, and the retro-flavored "Oil and Vinegar" of Michael De Hey; this is a gripping journey, with one of the best production and DJ teams in the world at the helm. Quality from front to back. *** (3 of 5)
Made Within the Upper Stairs of Heaven – Sasse – Mood Music (DE)
Sasse (aka Freestyle Man, Mr. Negative) has been an active member of the European EDM scene for many years. This LP shows Sasse's wildly dissimilar musical roots – taking on disco, italo, house, techno and many places in between. Standout cuts include the calm, groovy "Nicaraguan Love Affair," lush Detroit techno mover "Gravity," and the retro stylings of "Soul Sounds." *** (3 of 5)
Focus On: Guido Schneider – Guido Schneider – Poker Flat (DE)
Debut release in this new series from the ever brilliant Poker Flat; featuring Berlin based producer, Guido Schneider. With 13 original tracks and remixes, all expertly sequenced by Schneider himself, this is a quality disc, showing the talents of one of EDMs most exciting producers. From the tension filled rhythms of "Re-Moved" to the undeniable "Super Sander" and Guido's exceptional "Dark Side of the Moon Remix" of Daniel Stefanik's Move Me, this is an exceptional anthology that is worth of your attention. *** (3 of 5)
