Full Length
Sounds of the Eighth Season - Various (mixed by Sven Vath) - Cocoon (DE)
Another season in Ibiza has come and gone, and we are left with memories and another Sounds of the Season collection, with Sven Vath doing what he does best and serving up a collection of the most unique and quality house and techno from the past summer. Featuring artists as diverse as Junior Boys, Pepe Bradock, Argy, and Joris Voorn, this disc, as with all in this series, is a quality excursion worthy of your attention. ***
Ralph Lawson’s 2020 Vision – Various (mixed by Ralph Lawson) – 20/20 Vision (UK)
Many times when a mix is a “label only” set, the complication suffers because of a lack of great material. In the case of 20/20 Vision, the opposite is true, as there is just too much good stuff to choose from. Label boss, Lawson does his best with choice selections from Paul Woolford, Burnski, Spirit Catcher and his own 2020 Sound system, all coming together on this quality mix set. ****
Live at the Playboy Mansion – Various (mixed by Bob Sinclar) – Defected Records (UK)
While I think the whole Sinclar as international DJ sex symbol act is tiresome, there is no doubt he produces and spins great music – and his parties, like this disc are always a blast. Taking the best cuts from the disco days (both in the US and in his native France), and interspersing them with newer tracks from Roger S, Denis Ferrer, and Sinclar himself – this is an instant party in a box. ****
Dessous’ Best Kept Secrets – Various – Dessous Recordings (DE)
Featuring a mixture of some of their best releases from the past few months, seven brand new, never before heard tracks from Simon Flower, Discemi, and Steve Ferrarnd & Pete Sung – and a bonus mix CD from the even excellent Vincenzo, this is another example of why Dessous is one of the best and most consistent deep house and minimal labels in the world. Lovely stuff. *****
Nervous Nitelife: Mass Movement – Various (mixed by Joe Bermudez) – Nervous Records (US)
Joe Bermudez is equally at home rocking the decks at celebrity parties, or remixing tracks for people like Hillary Duff, Shania Twain, and Gabriel & Dresden. This mix brings forth several of his own remixes, and tracks from John Dahlback, Chris Lake, and Joris Voorn. True to his style and sure to move you, this is a great view into the world of one of the hottest talents on the global dance scene. ***
Singles
Fortune Cookie / "Rise and Fall/RIP Cristian" – Oliver Moldan – Rapid Response (US)
Top quality work from renowned German DJ/producer Oliver Moldan. The poignant "Rise and Fall/RIP Cristian" subtly grows and builds into a dance floor destroyer. "Fortune Cookie" showcases production partner Harada; another truly massive track. Trippy key shifts, chunky bass lines and tension-filled breakdowns will elevate audiences worldwide... ask John Digweed. Do yourselves a favor and check out this exceptional EP.
*****
