Reviews (4)

Good Predictable Deep House...
It's like one of those mystery movies that takes you on a ride only towards a not-so-well ending. Same "A-list" producers and tracks, same mellow, slow-building style of mixing... as a DJ myself, I'm very attentive towards the whole "presentation" thing and for three talented DJ's with over 50 years of experience between them, to dish out entire tracks one at a time is an insult to the person who REALLY wants to get down. again, there are 3 DJ's, what are they doing? I understand it for an 8-10 hour dance-a-thon, for 74 minutes, I need more than this. If you've never heard any track on this cd before then you'll love it, otherwise.... "ehhh"

Body & Soul, Overhyped?
Body & Soul", one of NYC's premiere parties hosted by Joe Claussell, Danny Krivit, and Francois K., has released the third installment of their Body & Soul series. At the Summerstage this year, an outdoor event held in Central Park, the surging crowds had to be turned away at different points because of overcrowding. Now with this series of mixes, they try to bring the feel of Body & Soul into the home environment for the house fan that is unable to attend this event.

It opens with a nice mellow vocal track from Yoriba, featuring the lovely voice of Marie St. James. "Closer I Get", which became a staple at Body & Soul this summer, is strictly based on the strength of Marie St. James' voice. Then it goes into a track from Hardrive 2000, which I found totally forgettable. That track trudges along with its plain vocals for a good six minutes before the mix picks up again.

"Philly's Groove" lives up to its name because this track has a groove. A trippy-jazz house track that definitely picks up the vibe on the mix and increases it a level! With EQ effects and delays on the horns, it bounces at a very dancer-friendly pace. "Equitorial" from Dubtribe Sound System is another hot afro-latin house track that those who frequent house clubs are probably familiar with. If not, it's heavy in percussions and swaying hips! Throw in a chant and you have yourself a fun song that's damn good for dancing. That's followed by Soul Ascendents' "Tribute", which has appeared on NUMEROUS compilations, but still a solid track. This is a slightly different mix than the album version, but the difference is miniscule. Another stand-out in the mix is the track by Scott Grooves, "Organ Nights", which is a down-tempo house with a nice organ solo. Despite its nine-minute running time, this track will really grow on you with it's after hours feel.   With a total of 12 tracks, there are some klunkers in the mix. Honorable mention goes out to Aril Brikha's "Groove La Chord" and Snowboy's "Casaforte" remixed by Joe Claussell. Overall, not a bad mix, but it doesn't seem to really spark to many fires underneath my soles. It is slightly above the average house mix, but never really hits the strength of the Body & Soul parties. It's a mix that you'll play when you don't want to think of something to play, but not the mix you'll necessarily play to kick the party into orbit.

Slightly disappointing.

Back In The Day
Timing is everything! With books being published about the club scene (Paradise Garage) and the DJ's that made that era (Last Night A DJ saved My Life) this cd is right on time to bring the new "House" fans into the fold and make the old ones howl. With outstanding musicianship and def mixing, the jams here will make you move like never before. Almost hypnotic, it draws you in with infectious beats and sensous grooves. Building you up to a gospel explosion at cut 9, "I Shall Not Be Moved" that can only conjour up the spirit and energy of Sylvester! You'll do more than tap your toes with this one!

After a powerful weekend, where better to cool off?
Body&Soul-sundays@vinyl :) Just got back from the party a few hours ago.. Bought the CD on my way out for a friend who doesn't get a chance to come to NYC. It is the bomb.. I will post a detailed review later, right now I'm too busy chilling on my couch and listening to the CD. ... Read more

Amazon.com

When Danny DeVito commissioned Irish producer David Holmes to provide the score for the film Out of Sight, he chose wisely. Holmes's gritty, urban dance music, first exposed on the sadly underrated The Film's Crap Let's Slash the Seats, is perfect for evoking scenes and atmospheres, yet it's interesting enough to stand on its own. For this album, Holmes and a friend wandered the streets of New York, collecting voices and noises; Holmes then assembled them into an imaginary soundtrack with the structures of modern dance music and the sonic qualities of rock and dub reggae. Let's Get Killed is a disjointed cut-up session that brings the grit and excitement of city life into your living room without leaving a drop of blood. --Matthew Corwine ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Great tough music that's like the real world
It makes you feel like you're walking through a subway station in New York. This CD is one of the best of my collection because of its coldness. This music should be used in a Tarantino-type film. lets get killed has a smooth original bassline that sounds like someone is about to get killed. Along with that, Rodney Yates and don't die just yet are the best tracks. When ever I go to the city(San Francisco) and walk down the busy streets, I have these songs playing in my head. David Holmes, along with Dorfmeister have the best sounds out of any Drum-Bass DJ's I've heard. If you buy this one, also buy the soundtrack to "Out of Site". He makes some really cool songs on that album as well.

The Soundtrack For the Film That never Was......
This album was David Holmes second release and build on his previous album ("This Films Crap, Let's Slash the Seats"), with the emphasis on building immersive film scores/soundtracks, referencing Funky downtempo broken Beat's ("Let's get Killed") , Contemporary 70's Guitar melodramatic fusion ("My Mate Paul"), lively instrumental soul ("Gritty Shaker"), or even a reinterpretation of what the James Bond theme would sound like under the musical direction of David (Radio 7). There's even an expertly implemented stab at funky dance track ("Freaknik"), but as brilliantly devised as all this tracks are.....the one truly defining moment is arguably David's finest moment, the encapsulation of New York city night time life....The string, guitar, violin orchestrated arrangements of ("Don't Die Just Yet"), a 6 minute epic that showcases David impeccable ear for composition & creation of music, that is defiantly at odds with current trends in music, but remains a blissfully realised piece of music.

DJ turned music composer
Bought this years ago and enjoyed it then, and still occaionally do now. If you don't know, he did the soundtrack for OCEAN'S 11 and included a few of his own tracks(from this cd) in the movie remake. So if you enjoyed the sound found in that movie(hip, cool, sophisticated, jazzy, retro, funky, etc), seriously consider backtracking and getting this release. Especially since the OCEAN'S 11 soundtrack has edited versions of his tracks and contain dialogue from the movie(which may irritate some if you just want the songs). Standouts on this cd for me include:

*My Mate Paul--the coolest/hippest sounding track maybe. Should find its way in some spy movie soundtrack.
*Rodney Yates--ultra smooth tux-wearing, cocktail drinking song. Clooney's theme in O's11 as he walks out of prison in the opening credits.
*Radio 7--007 theme-inspired track. Ultra cool at first, slightly repetive later though.
*Freaknik--the big beat, breakbeat, 4-on-the-floor, breaker's extravaganza. funky as hell. the title implies it.
*Don't Die Just Yet--what I call a 'slow burn' song. it starts out slow and uneventful, but stick with it and when the strings kick in you'll be rewarded with a very moody and memorable track.

Also, Gritty Shaker was in O's11, Slashers Revenge has a haunting sound to it, Let's Get Killed is really long, and Caddell Returns is just...there. The rest are just samples/or intros, not actual tracks. Overall, if you enjoy this type of music and are not afraid to pick up a 5-year old release, i strongly recommend you do.

Don't Buy Just Yet
This album boasts an interesting concept, and serves as a great background cd if you have a lot of crap to do and you want to keep your energy flowing. But it can't compare to "Bow Down to the Exit Sign", an absolutely brilliant and completely visceral listening experience. Might I suggest buying the "Don't Die Just Yet" single featuring remixes by Arab Strap and Delakota that are better than anything you'll find on this LP. Having said that, I can't wait to hear what Holmes puts out next. It's nice to hear a DJ who really pushes himself into unknown territory.

Innovater Extrodinare
David Holmes is fast becoming my source for bleeding edge experimental grooves. This CD in particular is a favorite of mine. The tracks each open with a sound byte of NYC, which then either continues throughout the song or morphs into a phat beat. Each song has it's own distinct flavor, although they all have a smirking confidence about them which perfectly personifies the City. While Holmes gains influence from all different genres, tracks like "Let's get killed," "radio 7," and "freaknik" propel this album into a realm all it's own. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

A must have1
i am a techno fan and i must saythat this is one of the best albums ive ever heard. With their matrix-style of urban beats and fast - paced lyrics. Beating the crystal method out of the top spot, this wonderful mix of techno and rap/hip hop makes this a must have for anyone who likes a great beat.

rippin' tunes
This cd is full of high energy, crankin' techno. Everyone I know who has listened to any one of these tracks wants to immediatly go out and buy it. Times running out is one of the best high energy techno songs I've ever heard. If you get the chance, see these guys live, you won't regret it.

Mission aborted
Techno junk food with some Rap/R+B influences. Amazing how a 5 minute song can seem like 8 minutes, when the majority is ust the same, repetitive hip-hop rhythm scheme.

Funky........Funky.....Funky.......Get up and dance
This is (some of) the best that they have done to date,.....but that is, until the new one............... STOP AND PANIC......hits the stores........Get down and do some serious Steppin' at the next dance parrrr T

Slippery, Funky, Rhythmic, Dirty, Blended, Screaming
Bottom line is you wont regret buying this cd, ever. Escpecially when you are about 10 minutes into the last tune and Cirrus whips out their banjo. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Rotterdam is hot!
This CD is so PHAT! I had previously only been exposed to the American brand of gabber/speedcore, mostly heavy metal headbangin' stuff, but I wanted more of an electronic, melodic, techno sound, and this CD delivers in a huge way. The melodies seem to change two or three times throughout each song, and each time it happens, it sets off a new round of a**-shakin'. Rotterdam definitely knows whats up with gabber, sacrificing a few BPM's in order to create a more melodic, danceable beat, instead of incredibly fast, impossible-to-dance-to speedcore.

Next to HARDCORPS, this ranks as one of the best
For those of you who have yet to lend ear to the evil conveyed by Hardcorps, then you must buy this compilation. The beats are hard, underground, and unlike the weaker "hardcore" mentioned by the individual beneath me, the baselines are banging and it shies away from the heavy metal head banging style and sticks to the house/techno roots that so many of you New Yorkers love. The Remix of "Slaves to the rave," is superb and for those of you who enjoy hardcore foot flipping over at Sound Factory, you will love this. It is the European hardcore that you are becoming accustomed to and more than ever, growing to love. A few songs are a bit weak, but overall, this compilation is superb....worth buying.

Check out HARDCORPS...the compilation is beyond belief.

Great Old School HARDCORE/Gabber
You'll here this music at a lot of hardcore parties. Roterdam is good. But the music isn't dark like newer hardcore is (ie. hardcorp/ron d core). It definately is not as choppy as ron d core. This CD is definately a tribute to oldschool hardcore. It does get a little silly at times, but in a good way. Overall it is some good music. Good to have in any hardcore collection. You can actualy listen to this stuff through both cd's. Some of the newer hardcore gets old after about 20 min. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Dark Poetry Set To Music!
"Spiral revelation, morphis of change
What a sensation
Growing in form.
Imagination, opens the door
In-between spaces
Oh dear she explodes..."

I honestly can't imagine a single soul not enjoying the music of Collide but for those who don't like them, or for those who haven't had the opportunity to hear them yet, well I pity you for you're truly missing out! I've been buying a lot of industrial/goth-related music lately but none have affected me the way that Collide has. Statik (producer/mixer) and kaRIN (vocals/lyrics) are simply brilliant when it comes to getting beneath the skin for the music they create is sure to send delicious chills down the spines of all who listen!

The lyrics are like dark poetry set to music but when kaRIN lends her lush, breathy vocals to the haunting words she concocts, a sensation unlike any other is sure to close around you as she weaves her delicate spell around her attentive follower... Of course it is very important to have an equal balance between the voice AND the instrumentations so, unleashing their intricate magic, Collide adds some grinding guitars to the mix which dance around leaping flames of industrial/electronic beats!

Now, because of poor sound quality, I am sadly obliged to give this album a star below what it probably deserves. The songs in themselves are all amazing as they showcase the potential that Collide is known for but the production (which is probably due to a low budget) kills the whole experience! And while it angers me to know that Collide will most-likely never gain the recognition or the following in which they rightfully deserve, I consider Collide to be one of my all-time favorite bands and am looking forward to all future releases!

I also recommend the fabulous 'Chasing The Ghost', which has better sound quality than this, as well as 'Distort' which features some incredible remixes from 'Beneath the Skin'.

Does this band get any better?
As the reviewer below says, it is beyond comprehension that this band is not as well heard of. A friend of mine, with well developed musical taste heard me cranking up the title track ( a superb cut) and said " Oh my G*d- what is that?"

Its that good. No, its better.

Despite what the sad soul below said, this is not mindless pop. To call this pop is like calling Britney Beethoven- totally wrong. Souring, grinding electronics, amazing sound scapes, and a lead singers voice whos depth and talent of voice will leave you, literally ,breathless. This is an incredibly good album, not only for Goths , or fans of industrial rock, but anyone who knows what exactly makes a good band- passion, purpose and talent.

If you want a comparison, gentle reader, try a blend of Tool, Tori Amos and Curve. Kind of. Collide deserve a much wider audience, but we live in a world where people buy Eminem albums, so I guess they may not get the recognition they so deeply deserve.

Good Album
If you like Goth-Rock-Synth music, then this CD is for you. I love Curve and Garbage, and think Collide is close, but not up to par with the previous two bands. The first half of the album is strong and is highlighted by such songs as "Deep" and "Strange", However the second half of the album is a bit weaker. A good band with a lot of potential.

More mindless industro-pop
Haven't I heard this before: Curve? Garbage? Portishead?
Sure there are industrial elements here that the above bands obviously don't have, but Collide offers nothing more than kARin's melancholic musings wrapped up in bubblegum dance loops. If you want more darker and DEEPER stuff skip this and try Die Form's Histories or anything by Flesh Field.

amazon should put this group on a "must have" list
Dark ambience with the perfection of kaRIN's voice as counterpoint. Amazon (or someone) should put this group on a "must have" list. If you like to be in on great bands that almost no one's heard of, check these two out. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Hot Dancefloor Tracks
"Get Ready for This" is 2 Unlimited's first album. This contains there first two worldwide hits "Get Ready for This" and the even satisfying "Twilight Zone". The other tracks of the album are just as fabulous as the hits. This groups' music is strictly recommended to electronic dance fans. This is techno music at its best, Anita and Ray are excellent musicians. I also recommend: Acen-"75 Minuites", Amber-"This Is Your Night", Bananarama-"Ultra Violet", Crystal Waters-"Crystal Waters", Culture Beat-"Inside Out", Kristine W,-"Land of the Living", Madonna-"Ray of Light", Madison Avenue-"Polyester Embassy", Real McCoy-"Hey Now", Traci Lords-"1,000 Fires", and Rozalla-"Everybody's Free", "Look No Further"& "Don't Go Lose It Baby".

Good workout motivational tape!!
When I am at the gym I try to locate this CD and pop it in. It really makes an hour of cardiovascular work seem like a walk in the park!!

Just to Add a few Other Things In, Too,...
Hello, it's me again! The same reviewer as before, who gave his other review the summarry title, "Really, I would Give It 2 1/2 Stars If I could." Well, I'm back, reviewing the same cd again, because there are 2 things that I forgot to put in my last review.

There are 2 things I didn't put in my last review that I feel neccessarry to add in and tell you about. First of all, I said that I was from Bombay, India when I wrote my other review. Well, the truth is that I'm not Indian at all. I'm actually, totally American. I just travel around the world a lot. I'm currently in the Netherlands, the home of 2 Unlimited's fan club right now. Second of all and more importantly for this review, I feel it extreemly neccessarry to tell you that despite what I said in my last review, I only meant SOME of the songs were bad. Not every song on it is bad. There are some good ones. (My favorites of which are the orchestral mix of, "Get Ready For This," and, "Contrast.") It's just that SOME of the songs are bad.

Well, that's all! You can read from me next in my review for "Hits Unlimited," the album that's tons better than this one! I will be writing a review on that soon! Until then, "ta, ta!"

really, i would give it 2 1/2 stars if i could.
ever since i first heard the orchestrational mix of "get ready for this," i've always been deeply obsessed with it. when my cousin let me borrow "hits unlimited," the cd that had the vocal version of the song, i found out that the song had a version with words. and the rest of the cd was perfect, too, for me. i liked the cd so much that my cousin got me one for myself on my birthday. then one day when i was looking around in a music store, i found this cd. it had both versions of "get ready for this" on it, plus other songs that were on the other cd, so i bought it. now, after having it for a little while, my conclusion is this: this cd is okay, as far as music, how most lyrics go, and some lyrics are concerned. i mean, most of the music is great! i think most of this is some of the best dance and dj music there is, and i wanna thank and complament the geniuses who wrote it! Most of the music on this cd is perfect, and i give it five stars, and i like the way most of the lyrics go, too. but the lyrics are different. they're the reason why i'm giving this cd 2 stars. some of them aren't good or appropriate, especially the f-word in "workaholic." i mean, i like most of them, don't get me wrong.-but i don't like all of them. i give this cd 2 stars, but i would've given it 2 1/2 stars because most of the music on this cd is so good, but, including and because of some of the lyrics, the whole cd doesn't deserve any rank higher, but they don't let you give 1/2-stars, so i'm giving it a plain 2 stars instead because the whole cd isn't bad, but because of some of the lyrics, isn't good, either. ... Read more

Album Description

Taking a conscious detour from previous Naked Music endeavors, this new collection dives headfirst into the realm of dirty disco, electro-funk and dub house. Seventeen ass-shaking tracks collected onto one mind-bending journey including hard to find gems from Chicken Lips, Daniel Wang, J&S Productions, Trentemoller, Themroc and more. Also includes the Cosmic Force remix by Dimitri From Paris. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Fantastic release, but a bit different than most Naked music
As the title suggests, those familiar with virtually every Naked Music release up to this point will realize quite quickly that this is a departure from that mold. That's not a bad thing, and Naked themselves in the liner notes make now bones about it - it's told up front.

Rather, this is a very deep, very dark journey into the world where house meets electroclash meets funk meets jungle, etc. The presence of acts like Chicken Lips may help illustrate this point. May of these songs would be equally at home on a Miss Kittin or Felix Da Housecat release. If you'd like a bit more of a comparison, it's very similar to Hed Kandi's "Twisted Disco" or, to an extent, "Going Deeper" series. Also, a very good companion cd to go along with this one (and one I bought at the same time as this one) is Junior Jack and Kid Creme's double-cd compilation for Defected's "In the House" series.

All in all a very good release, that, if you're familiar with most Naked Music, may take some getting used to. Other than that, it's excellent.

"Lost" in the music (a good thing)
Naked Music has been known for their chilled out and laid back music, something that Naked Music fans have grown accustomed to. But here, "Lost On Arrival", the newest member of Naked Music, has gone from the usual to the funky! With rare and hard-to-find tracks from Chicken Lips, Cosmic Force and Manzel (among others), "Lost On Arrival" is sure to get your booty shakin' and the dance floor quakin'!!! Pick up this cd, perfect for any party, club, or just to dance around your house by yourself nude (which is what i am about to do). Cop this cd, it is an individual and crowd pleaser all at once!

Bumpy Electro meets stripped down house
I was pleasantly surprised by Naked's latest offering. After a number of disappointing 12" releases and 13 in a dozen compilations, the naked crew bring the funk back into a musical genre that is often held to be braindead these days. UK producers seem to be capable of nothing but dark progressive tribal mayhem, while the american scene is stagnant. Luckily, cheezy vocals are abandoned in favor of stripped-down, dubby minimalistic electro-house. While this might sound scary to the average Migs fan, they couldn't have done a better job. Electro champions chicken lips deliver the goods, but it's DJ T with his lush 'Philly Track' that gets the party started. Trentemoller, a young scandinavian producer, serves up the delicious tracks 'le champagne', a dubby deep-house affair, and 'work in progress', a deep-proggy minimalistic tour de force. While these tracks stick out, all productions on this compilation are good, which makes good value for money in times when CD remain overpriced and a decent compilation usually entails three good tracks, the others being skip-through fodder.

If this is what can be expected from Naked Music in the future, I might actually dust off my old Naked Music Slipmats again, cause this is the future of house!

Evil funk incarnate is far out, man!
This 17-track mega compilation is a bona fide hit, my friends! This is what I would call 'happy house'(of which I normally am turned off by), but with all the deep dark and heavy basslines chugging underneath all the wild and crazy chaff exploding above. The wicked bass grounds you and plugs you in to the primal epic beats that hold all the tracks together in a way just too cool for mere words. Check out the bassline on track #13 - it is just so incredible it made me laugh out loud! As other reviewers mentioned, I was intially hesitant because of the phrase "dirty disco" and "disco-tech". Don't let that turn you off! If you like the dark and down-in-a-dungeon style house vibe, this CD will provide that dark heavy feel with just enough funkiness to actually warrant a whole new type of sound! Incredible! Evil funk incarnate, indeed!

OK I get it now
I initially did not like this release. So, I shelved it. I decided to give it another listen and now I get it...And Like it. Very deep, dark and moving CD. You definitely have to open your mind and just listen. You have to listen to this album for what it is and not what you would normally expect from Naked Music. ... Read more

Album Details

The Originator of the Buddha Bar Series Says, "When I was Doing Research for "Nirvana Lounge 2", I was More Than Pleasantly Surprised by the Creativity and Quality of the Scene in Scandanavia. Among My Favorites was Out of Phase, a Danish Outfit Created by Peter Mossman and Composed by Different Musicians from Other Countries-making a Modern and Extremely Vibrant Sound. It Seems to Be a Fusion Between the Four Poles: North-east-west-south. A N.e.w. Sound Experience! with this Musical Experience Comes the Blending of Cold Machines, the Warmth of Ancient Instruments and the Strangeness of Voices that Seem to Come from Far Away. For all You "Flying People", These Musical Swirls Will Carry You Away, Like They Carried Me Away, When all You Want to Do is Lose Yourself...herbally Yours, Claude Challe. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Awesome
I bought this CD a week ago and have been listening to it non-stop since. Nobody combines electronic music with didgeridoos, sitars, and ethereal vocals like these guys. Each song builds to it's particular frequency- and so does the album. Each track gets progessively more beat-driven and the effect is awesome. With the exception of a couple chill-out tracks, by the end of the CD you'll feel like a tribal warrior dancing on the eve of your greatest conquest. Ok that might be a little over the top. I'm not a "flying person" like the producer says but I got pretty close flying down the freeway at around 100mph listening to this CD. ... Seriouly- if you like Thievery Corporation, Kruder and Dorfmeister, Govinda, etc.- you'll dig this. Give it a listen. ... Read more

Album Description

Fabric presents yet another brilliant audio journey – this time by well respected German techno and house stalwart, Michael Mayer.Mayer runs Kompakt - the much admired German imprint and distribution network along with the revered techno and house weekly "Connfusion."Mayer,along with co-conspirators Superpitcher and Tobias Thomas have been key players in shaping the envelope pushing sounds currently coming out of an city in Germany which is rapidly gaining a reputation as a fertile bed for creativity in both music and the visual arts: Cologne.

A 16-year turntable veteran Michael is a staunch disciple of the 4/4 sound.Michael says, "The only thing I pre-determine is that I play 4/4. The rest happens by accident. I love the deeper side of music, obviously, but I like it raw and kicking. There has to be some pop sensibility too but... not obviously. The structure of my set is very pop influenced... I love to play... songs... things you can whistle on the way home."Fabric 13 sees Michael doing just that – a brilliant collage of melodies, and tight, tuff beats that will keep you whistling listen after listen! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Deben escucharlo !!
Es un cd grandioso, juega con tus emociones de principio a fin, lo recomiendo 100% !!

Listen to this CD Anywhere
Michael Mayer is a veteran producer/dj from Cologne, Germany. There, he is one of the forces behind top micro house label Kompakt. This CD was produced during/shortly after his residency at the famous British super club, Fabric(London, UK).

It is similar in composition to other mix CD's produced by top DJ's and producers in series like K7's "DJ Kicks". As the producers of top quality dance music have migrated into non-English speaking areas (such as France and Germany) these compilation CD's have become increasingly essential to followers of quality dance music.

Several of the tracks on this disc are from Mayer's Kompakt label. Kompakt rarely releases anything other then vinyl, so these tracks make the CD worth the (expensive) price of purchase.

Mayer also includes a piano based remix of a popular Westbam track from last (2003) summer.

What is remarkable about this CD and micro house as a genre, is how flexible it is. Unlike most dance music CD's, Mayer has created a sound that is nice for reading, cleaning, working out, or dancing.

I hestitate to even write something like the sentence above for fear that I will shortly be hearing Mayer played tracks on ads for Gap and Target, but what are you going to do? His sound has been around for some time, and he deserves some recognition.

Additionally, strong sales of this record might induce him to come states side to play some more dates. This would be a welcome event! All in all, a CD that reminds you of a time when dance music was more relevant.

Pure Audio Bliss
This CD is what makes me get up in the morning, and go to sleep at night. I can listen to it 24/7. It is perfect. Michael Mayer is a genius, and knows how to pick out the perfect songs to have a phenomenal CD. This disk is just amazing, with some great minimal beats. This isn't for your regular club music fan, this is for people who like depth, intelligence, and meaning to their music. A CD has never struck me as a piece of art, yet this CD has made me realize that music just isn't about mindless beats. Don't get this CD if you are looking for a good party album. Get this CD if you want some great, intelligent music. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Beautiful music
This album was my introduction to the whole Chill music phenomenon. Since then, I have listened to quite a few Chill albums, ranging from jazz to world beat to the sounds found here, downtempo electronica. I have become quite enthusiastic about Chill...not a style of music so much as a mood that can be exemplified in a number of genres of music. The mood is relaxing, but with a gentle beat. Unlike New Age or ambient smooth relaxing music, most Chill is something you could dance to late at night when you're mellowed out, or early in the evening when you're just kind of warming up; or, you can just sit back in your recliner and drift off to music pleasureland.

Some albums pull off the Chill mood better than others. This is one of my favorites. I especially like tracks #5 through #9...this set of 5 songs is 5-star material and exquisite sequencing--sheer perfection in beautiful electronic sounds and a gentle beat that rocks you like a sensual lullaby.

While #5-#9 are the pinnacle of the album for me, tracks #4-#10 all fit together superbly. I don't like Moby's "In This World"--it just doesn't seem to fit on this album, so that's why I say the good sequence starts at #4. The first song seems to be a bit different too. While most of the album is more like evening music, Delerium's "Love" seems like sunny music to me. It's still smooth and beautiful, but the acoustic guitars and female vocals sound more like summer sun music to me, rather than the other songs' "evening" sounds.

I have three versions of "Tears From The Moon" by Conjure One. While this is my least favorite in itself, the mix on this album fits the album to a tee. After this song, the beautiful, smooth, rich electronics give way to a song with lowkey rapping, so the mood is lost. The lyrics in "North Pole" are offensive and thus do not contribute to the beauty found on the rest of the album. Fischerspooner's and New Order's songs sound like something straight out of 1982 (Depeche Mode or Yazoo of that era, for example); I like that kind of music and these songs have a gentle slow beat, but still, the 1982 sound doesn't mix well with the 2003 sounds. These are the reasons I say songs #4 to #10 are the prime sequence of this album and the other songs, well, just don't fit so well.

I picked up this album because of the artists I knew, Moby and New Order. Ironically, I dislike the song by Moby and think the New Order song doesn't fit. But I have been introduced to a new mode of music, Chill, which I am now quite crazy about, and among Chill albums I've heard, the middle of this album, particularly tracks 5 through 9, is quintessential Chill. So beautiful...

Not quite the ultimate chill out but still good
I guess after hearing the fifth volume in the Buddha Bar series, my expectations of chill out compilations have been raised. I have been spoiled by the diversity of the well-knowned chill out series. So when I bought Nettwerk's "Chillout 2003: The Ultimate Chillout", I thought it could have been better and less predictable. As much as I love Moby and his song "In This World" and Sasha's "Wavy Gravy", I thought those two songs could have easily been left off this cd. On the other hand hearing a new song from "Delerium ("Love") and a remix of my favorite Conjure One song "Tears From the Moon" made it well worth buying the cd, which I found a used copy in the used bins at my favorite record store. The Delerium song "Love" was nothing I have ever heard before from my favorite ambient act. Faithless' Zoe Johnston lends her stunning vocals to the beautiful song. I also loved Kirsty Hawkshaw's "Fine Day [Frakker Mix]". I remember hearing samples of that song on an old Orbital song. Of course what is a Nettwerk compilation without a Sarah McLachlan track? To be honest, I actually enjoyed the William Orbit mix of "Black". I am nowhere tired of that song as I am with Delerium's "Silence". I wasn't too wild about the Telepopmusik or Fischerspooner tracks. Both groups I find vastly overrated. I loved Ihb's "Olivia Newton Christ" and FC Kahuna's "North Pole Transmission". Hooligan's "Hear Me Now" and New Order's "Your Silent Face". With all its imperfections, "Chillout 2003" is quite good but it isn't the ultimate chill out as the title say. I leave that title to my favorite chill out compilation "Buddha Bar V".

Best Chillout CD of 2003
As the title states - this is the Ultimate Chillout CD. I love the way it starts out with Delerium - they are one of the best Chillout groups ever. Can't wait for a new CD by them. Chillout 2003 also does a nice job of mixing it up. The Conjure One track is perfect and even the older stuff like New Order fit in well.

has its moments...
nettwerk does a decent job here. its seems they did with their previous CHILLOUT 2002 too. if i hadn't already owned most of the full lengths by the artists featured; i'm sure i'd picked that one up also.
back to 2003.
1)Delerium. the title is how you'll feel of the song. good intro song...that continues w/ 2)LHB...has that Air-"kelly watch the stars", Zero 7-"salt water sound", Vertigo Deluxe-"everything is", Solar Twins-astral hymn" vibe goin on...you get the picture...if you like that kraftwerk like sound...
3)Moby-you get your soulful/gospel church singer/sample w/ a good backbeat...
3 for 3...
4)Telepop will be another good one for newbies but i've since grown tired of their genetic world cd so i skip...
sidenote: The "genetic world" cd is a good mixture of genres for those who may be interested. Litte bit of trip hop/hip hop, pop/rock, light rap/dance...
5)Kirsty w/her OPUS III "fine day" track. i never really cared much for this song to begin w/ so...i skip but....for those who do like it....its mixed pretty good.
6)Sasha-instrumental track. skip
7)Hooligan-"hear me now" ...light drum intro/outro with the female vocoder sound in between...this is a nice track;)
8)Sarah McLachlan-mr orbits mix is a little too slow for me here. skip.
9)SOUNDS FROM THE GROUND-"LEAN ON ME". beautiful...beautiful...
10)Conjure One-this mix is a little too slow too...skip
11)1 Giant Leap-"my culture". i'm not a big rap fan but...the rappin is very smooth here. its not in yer face nor too cheezy...just right. you'll enjoy this one;) almost tone-locish but not as deep...
skip the last 3...they have hints of 80s/synthpop sounds...you know what your getting w/ New Order...
for the trip hoppers out there...you may wind up liking a little more or less than me but assure you...you won't feel cheated.
of course...get it used if possible. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This is not the expected knockout from the renegade female drum & bass mixmaster, but it's still a fine display of versatility. On her major-label debut, DJ Rap (née British model Charissa Saverio) offers everything from dippy Madonna-style club tracks ("Bad Girl") and narcotic electro jams ("Fuck with Your Head") to icy instrumental scores ("Stories from Around the World"). But after fumbling through several indistinguishable dance cuts, she really hits her stride with the majestically orchestrated "Changes," a song that uses her beats and glamour to maximum effect. --Aidin Vaziri ... Read more

Reviews (49)

A little shakey
I first got interested in DJ Rap because of techno-virtuoso, BT. She worked with him on 'Movement in still life's 'Never Gonna Come Back Down' with M. Doughty. BT's latest, '10 years in the life', has a remix of 'Bad Girl' on it that really got me interested. So basically, I bought this CD on recommendation from BT. Okay, a few things out in the open. 1. DJ Rap does not actually rap, I'm still unclear on the name's background as DJ's pedigree lies in Jungle. 2. The [Explicit Lyrics] warning applies to one song, take a look at the track a list and take a wild guess which.
The CD opens with what sounds like a rip from a cartoon saying 'do you know that bad girls go to hell?' This is actually a good thesis on the album, as I get the sense that DJ Rap is trying to portray this sense being sick of being judged. Musically the album is fairly chilled, and a bass-addict's dream. The bass lines are thick, and tracks 3 & 4 are really dry. They just thump. That's it. 'Bad Girl' has this eclectric-urbana sound to it that is really cool, 'Good to be alive' sounds like Madonna guesting on a Daft Punk song. I kept picturing Evita walking around Chicago with the guy in the Dog costume. A lot of the vocals sound so much like Madonna, it's frightening. The density of track 8, makes me think of what the vomit-inducing 'Die another day' theme could have been.
'Learning Curve' proves that DJ Rap is a genuinely talented singer/musician, but none of her songs really get off the ground, and the album doesn't ever climax. It is kind of disapointing, but there is good music here. Many times DJ falls back on her Jungle roots, and the result is superb. I recommend borrowing this CD before you buy it. And it's not a bad introduction to the world of real techno for people who wonder why they never hear 'Ray of light' at a rave.

A fine intro to d&b for those who are just starting.
I bought this album 3 years ago, because I heard "Good To Be Alive" in the movie "Go", and loved it. So why not pick up the album it came from and see if there were any other good tracks? Well, after a few listens, I only liked the first two tracks, so I shelved it. A year later, I popped it back in. I realized how closed-minded I had been a year before, because the breakbeats on this album are SICK. Throw in a little Drum & Bass, and there you have it. This album still gets heavy play in my car stereo. I would highly recommend it for people who are looking for an intro to D&B, but are currently into hip-hop and breakbeats. This will ease you into the genre. The lyrics are almost sometimes laughable:
"I'm trying to show you that as friends we'd get along
Respect my body 'cos that's where you came from" - Bad Girl
.....Anyway, you get the picture. A couple of tracks don't really fit on this album, and you'll know which ones I'm talking about when you listen to it. But for people who just love BEATS, this album is golden. If you're the type who likes to roll around town and annoy people with your "Bassmobile", this is for you. Tracks like "F**k With Your Head" & "You Get Around" are perfect head-nodders for you guys. Hell, if you're a stripper, I'd recommend half the songs on this album to use for your routine.
But when it comes down to it all, this album is all about the beats, so I can't knock the lyrics, although some of the melodies are nice as well.
Excellent album, if you know what it was meant for - I just wish Rap would dabble more in breakbeat albums like this, instead of just sticking with the Jungle/D&B tip like she does.

DJ Rap Knows Her Beats
DJ Rap knows here beats. A friend of mine gave me this album as a b-day gift and I loved every track. I even purchased another copy so I have one in the house and one in the car. DJ Rap's Learning Curve is one of top ten best album to listen to, in my opinion. If you are a techno fan, it is definitely worth hearing.

Not as good as it shoulda, coulda been...
I know that it takes talent to make music, and I hate to criticize any musicians because I certainly couldn't do it, but this CD was just not that good. There are some cool beats, but they're pretty forgettable. Lyrics in electronic music aren't always deep or anything, but in some cases, I think she actually was trying to make a "real song", so it was kind of sad. Her vocals are Madonna-esque, without the smooth production. Maybe she just didn't quite live up to the hype. I'm beginning to think that most female djs "make it" just because of the novelty of female djs. There was nothing to HATE, but there certainly wasn't anything to love, either.

Everyday girl
I'm not a big fan of drum & bass music in general. I prefer the pop sensibility and smoother beats of trance music. I will occasionally make an exception to the rule if there is an artist that captures my attention. DJ Rap is one of those artists. I bought "Learning Curve" a few years ago. At the time I thought this was what drum & bass sounded like since I never listened to the music. Looking back I was wrong. DJ Rap certainly incorporates drum & bass beats into her music but I wouldn't call it purely drum & bass music. Her music reminded me more of break beat acts like The Chemical Brothers, The Crystal Method, and Fatboy Slim. "Learning Curve" is a good album but it certainly didn't struck a chord with me like The Crystal Method's debut album "Vegas". My problem with this type of music is that the beats tends to become repetitive and irritating which it does on "Learning Curve" with songs like "F***K With Your Head" and "Bad Behaviour". Thankfully the more repetitve songs don't stick out in my head as do the good songs like "Bad Girl" and "Good to Be Alive" (which I think reminds me of The Crystal Method's "Keep Hope Alive"). I thought DJ Rap has a lovely voice which matched well with the type of music she creates. "Learning Curve" may not be one of my favorite cds but it sure is enjoyable to listen to when I want to crank up some techno music. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

I adore this album...
I'll admit I knew nothing about Caroline Lavelle until a friend gave me her album. He said he thought I might like her because of my musical choices in the past -- wow, was he right.

First off, her singing is nothing like Loreena McKennitt. That's not bad, but makes her different. She has a sultry rich husky voice compared to Loreena's sweet melodic singing. Caroline's singing is in-your-face with deep notes and every breath she takes can be heard.

As for her music she is an incredibly talented musician. All of her songs vary in types from native influenced, to celtic inspired to down right sultry. Check out "DESIRE" -- a song I plan to use at my wedding. WOW what a gorgeous torch song! "A Case of You" based on Mitchell's original release is as good as the original, if not better. She takes the song out of the rafters and drops it down an octave in order to let you sing along, in my opinion.

I never tire of this album. She is very unique and very likeable as well as friendly. I had friends who met her at her concert and said she was very nice to them. Also, I wrote to her website to ask for lyrics and she personally sent them to me. A musician who cares about her fans! Plus a talented one! I hope she continues to keep giving out good music. I'd be more than happ to buy it from her.

Serene and intimate.
I remember browsing my local music store one day and this album caught my eye. I liked the autumn milieu and the colors on the cover artwork. I also recognized the name Caroline Lavelle from somewhere. Weeks later, when flipping through my Loreena McKennitt collection, I saw Caroline Lavelle in the booklet for Live in Paris & Toronto. She played cello in McKennitt's live band. Thinking anyone who played with McKennitt had to be good, I picked up this album. That's a true story. Really.

Well, it's like nothing Loreena McKennitt ever did. There is a bit of a Celtic quality to some of the melodies, but I'm actually reminded a bit more of Enya. However, Lavelle's music is "darker," and more somber (as opposed to the "bright" ambience of Enya). The arrangements on this CD is very quiet and subtle. Producer William Orbit creates layers of smooth electronic-tinged music, almost in a "new age" sort of way. Some tracks have too much bass, but he does a good job most of the time, allowing Lavelle's voice to be the main instrument, supplemented by electronics but not immersed by them. I love her voice...very sensual and sexy, deep and pristine. "A Case of You" is hot stuff, leaving me in need of a cold shower. Lavelle also plays some beautiful cello pieces, like the murmuring solo at the beginning of "Moorlough Shore." There is also a lot more "real" instrumentation, like pianos, pipes, and guitars.

Songs are all pretty slow and mellow, but different songs still entail different moods, from gentle ("Turning Ground") to feisty ("Dream of Picasso"). If this CD were edible, I'd put it in a sandwich and eat it.

Superb Early William Orbit Effort
I don't have much more to add to the positive reviews below--this is a wonderful, chill out, hypnotising record. However it bears noting that nearly all of the album was produced, and in spots written by William Orbit before he became so well known for Madonna's Ray of Light. His swirling synth landscapes are all present here as well, and add many layers to Caroline's vocals.

Stunning

E

RENAISSANCE LADY
Its what you might have expected from one of the co founders of Humouresque in 1981.Not only that but an artiste associated with no less than VIRGINIA ASTLEY.Fans of Virginia or Loreena McKennit should BUY

Will have you waiting for more
Versatile feminine voice, from an ancient scottish ballad to her wonderful cello. It's no wonder that modern producers like William Orbit are remixing her songs. If you can find it, keep and eye out for the single ver. of morloch shore, it's a gem. it includes classic, to techno versions. ... Read more

Album Description

Culled from the seminal Artificial Intelligence series, this was the debut release on Warp from Richard James, aka Aphex Twin. Surfing... sounds as refreshing today as it did almost a decade ago. This re-issue has two previously unreleased tracks 'Portreath Harbour' and 'Redruth School'. Standard jewel case. 2001 release. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Good, but not amazing... 3 and a half stars really...
I was in a local record shop a few weeks ago, and one of the guys working there pointed this album out to me... they had just ordered it in, and it was hidden in the back... anyways, I just HAD to buy it, cause I'm a huge fan of Richard D. James' work... My collection is small so far, but it's growing slowely... anyways, I played it, and it's ok... I love track 1, 2, 4, and others, but overall it's too dancy for me... now mind you, it's better then most dance music you'll encounter, but compared to his other releases, this is a mediocre release... I do like every song, except for Quoth (too damn annoying), but most of the songs I just like, and not love... anyways, if you're a fan of RDJ, then definately check this out if you find it somewhere, otherwise I'd suggest I Care Because You Do, or Come to Daddy to start out...

and a half stars! Another interesting one!
This is a great release from RDJ, but not as organic as his works under "Aphex Twin". This work is more like a rave, rather than an Ambient work. These you can dance to (awkwardly, at least).

The first 4 tracks are electronica bliss. Around the middle, you might become bored with it. Don't turn it off! The final two tracks recover the album as a whole.

If you don't know by now, Richard D. James (aka 'Aphex Twin, Polygon Window), is a pioneer in electronic music. He is responsible for the landmarks "Selected Ambient Works Vol. 2", and "I Care Because you do". This album is one of the last times he used self-made instruments to make techno, before switching to his "drill and bass" sound. Therefore, this work is a must have, that is if you are a collector.

If you are just a music fan, I suggest you look into his "Aphex" stuff first, and work your way to this one. Like all his other stuff, you may not like it at first listen. Give it time. It's really not as hard to get used to as SAW2. If you already like SAW2, this should be a piece of cake!

a little twisted
Just great. I am a fan of his music for quite a while and all of his records are special in their own way. Tracks with a little twist only RDJ can add. Sometimes a bit sinister, but thats ok for me! Most of his tracks are sertainly refreshing and energy boosting. A philosopher teacher once said: "to enjoy and appreciate the quality of sertain aspects (of whatsoever) you have to have rotten spots besides it". In case of some of the tracks ("ventolin" (medicine for asthmatic patiens) for example in which you hear a sample of a person hyperventilating), annoying bleeps, cracks and sounds are added in such way that when they fade away in a track you almost feel a releef....a contrast between serenety and rotten (no offence)

Don't buy 'expanded'- 2 tracks shorter than non!-
I guess this is what I get for not reading the tracklists) carefully enough. The so-called 'expanded' version of this cd is missing 'portreath harbor' + 'redruth school,' both of which are found under the "normal" release. The 'expanded' version is on WARP + TVT, and the (truly) expanded version is just on WARP. Don't I just feel like a schmuck? But seriously folks, don't make the same mistake.
PS- the 3 stars is because of the -2 trax; I haven't honestly heard an ugly or beautiful second of this disc yet, so this isn't a 'true'review.I'm sure it's all in the category of "Good, but Possibly Dated Early Works of a Genius"

or something.

An Essential IDM Classic
Polygon Window is one of Richard D. James' earlier pseudonyms, but more importantly, Surfing on Sinewaves is one of the first great IDM albums to be put out by Warp Records. Polygon Window is very different from Apex Twin's current output; it's a raw, moody, bleepy, and dark analogue bubblebath you'll want to soak in for hours. This album has influenced many artists such as Mu-Ziq, David Kristian, and Boards of Canada. If you loved Aphex Twin's Selected Ambient Works Vol. I and II, you will definitely find a place for Surfing on Sinewaves in your collection. ... Read more

Album Description

NAG NAG NAG, the now legendary London club, has been a major catalyst in re-defining UK club culture. The weekly subterranean party at The Ghetto is the anti-thesis of identi-kit corporate clubbing and as a result has been lauded with praise for putting the hedonism and excitement back into the UK's club scene.Although deliberately DIY and Lo-Fi, Nag Nag Nag's distinctive young crowd and subsequent notoriety has attracted fashionistas, rock stars, celebs and arty types such luminaries as The Strokes, Primal Scream, Bjork, Kate Moss, Zoe Ball and Sam Taylor-Wood amongst many others.

Now, for all those not lucky or brave enough to have ventured inside it's hallowed walls, the club's revered electric/eclectic soundtrack has been captured on "Nag Nag Nag - The Album" by Nag’s very own DJ Johnny Slut! Jonny, one half of Atomizer with DJ partner Fil OK and signed to DJ Hell's Gigolo Records,says "Nag Nag Nag was born out of the boredom of soulless superclubs that offered nothing but a vile corporate excuse for a night out, and the dreary macho, chin-stroking soul boy values of the dance scene that are about as far removed from any sense of fun and abandon as you could imagine". He hopes that"NAG NAG NAG, the album will reflect why the club has such a diverse, popular appeal - from art students in their mums old curtains, to gothic EBM-ers, dragsters and hardened clubbers, sick of repetitive beats and crap superclub attitudes". Jonny set outto provide something more than just another throw away club compilation and with its uncompromising selection featuring the very best of New Wave, Electro and Punk classics from the late 70’s and early 80’s - it looks like Jonny has outdone himself! ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Fueled music..title a bit misleading though..
This is a great general dance cd for an excellent price. Since it will please most anyone, whether or not you like the whole techno dance thing or not, it's one excellent party cd. You can't go wrong. It blends together several musical styles, and has one killer beat all the way through. That's definately an advantage when you're trying to please a whole crowd of people.
Most of the songs on the cd have a very mainstream dance club sound. If you like that, BUY THIS! I'll be willing to BET that you've heard at least a couple of the songs on this cd.

HOWEVER! The CD title... "radikal techno- the new trance generation" implies something entirely different from what the cd actually gives. Something that you'll only probably notice if, like me, you absolutely love true trance, and were looking for a trance cd. This is NOT a trance cd. Be warned of that now. It draws influences from all over, and ends up being MUCH more house. Hence all the mainstream appeal, I guess? It still has some good trance on it though, and there are songs that make it worthwhile. Among my favorites are Kernkraft400, Cream, and Outaspace. I'm just a little dissapointed there weren't really any *deep* trance songs to just sink into...

Dance till you Drop -- then play it again....
The "Radikal Techno" series has its ups and downs (one of its biggest downs was the 'best of Radikal Techno'), but this is a major UP. Radikal Techno 4 is a killer CD: a must have for dance music, or trance & techno lovers.

Every track here is both listenable and danceable. Latin sounds, Reggae, new wave, and electronica fuel the beats here. Standout tracks include MELLO TRAX "Outta Space" (not the old Billy Preston tune, just in case you were wondering), SM TRAX' "Got The Groove", and LA MORENA's "Decadencia". A remixed? version of Zombie Nation's KernKraft400 kicks things off in a shimmering trance mode, and the songs just keep getting better & better. At a recent party, no one noticed that this CD played over and over... the guests couldn't get enough of it.

Check it out! Techno dance, trance, breakbeat, and electronica fans will love this one.

Please don't call this stuff techno.
This is hardcore, rave, hard house and a few trance tracks. Very little of this music is actually techno, and if you called it techno anywhere East of the USA you'd get a funny look.

I mean, c'mon, it has ATB on it.

Calling this techno and shipping it out is like putting macaroni in a can and calling it tomato soup. Yes, you can eat both, but they are NOT the same.

If you want some real techno, check out Marco Carola, Jeff Mills, Funk D'Void, Gez Varley, etc...

Decent compilation
Good techno CDs are tough to come by, so thank God for this one. It's a good compilation with some solid stand out tracks. Most of the songs have a hard edge to them which is good because the powerful beats make you want to move! I love to dance and workout to this one! Pick it up if you're a techno fan, you wont regret it. Also, I highly recommend mr.deviant's "Techno Obsession" to any and all techno fans - that CD is just KILLER!

NOKTURNAL
I,M JUST REALLY REALLY GETTING INTO THE UNDERGROUND SCENE. I LOVE THIS CD. IT'S MIND-BLOWING TRACKS 16 &18 ARE SENSATIONAL. IF YOU DONT OWN THIS CD YOU MUST BUY NOW.PEACE!!!!!!!! ... Read more

Album Description

Sophomore album from one of the UK's hottest dance imprints and winner of 'Club Of The Year' award at the prestigious Muzik Dance Awards in 1998. Tracks include, ATB-'9PM (Til I Come)' (Signum remix), Garbage-'When I Grow Up', Fatboy Slim-''Praise You', Robert Miles-'Children' (Tilt's Courtyard mix) and Gouryella-'Gouryella'. 1999 release. Deluxe packaging with a double digipak, slipcase with a 20 page booklet. ... Read more

Reviews (29)

Gatecrasher UK Rocks!
This was an impulse buy Period. Listened to it a few times but then it got to me. First set started with Garbage's When I Grow Up and it just blew me away. Track 5 - Orkidea's Unity is especially cool - the synthesiser tunes! Dang! Aurora's Hear You Calling on CD2 was way cool too. Gatecrasher was the FIRST Dance Trance Compilation I've bouught and I've not regretted it! I've already Got DISKO TECH and it's a great CD too. Starts with some Classical (music) tunes. Wow.!

Need I say more?

!
This is the Porsche 911 of the genre, period. The set is a little bit pricey but if you're into techno/house/trance at all, you'll be more into it after having listened to Gatecrasher Red.

The Gatecrasher DJ's somehow pack more energy into this set than in any mix compilation I've found anywhere. Apart from the manic energy level of the set, the mix is also excellent in that there is always at least one minute or so of the original vocals and bass line; with too many mixes, there's only a 15- or 20-second long sample of the original song before the foray into the DJ's particular mix rendition, or the opposite, not much mix at all. The segues between tracks are also brilliant, and the CD tracks are put together as one continuous mix, rather than tracks being separated. I guess I would call the music "trance", but it's definitely not the American flavor of trance, highly commercialized, overpriced, mediocre on quality. Oh, make sure you buy the Sony International Import Gatecrasher Red, not the US version; the tracks are different, I've heard.

Anyway, the energy in both CD's is PHENOMENAL. I suggest JBL or Bang & Olafsen speakers to go along with it. Cheers!

Is there anything better?
Driving beats, soaring synthesizers, and a soothing rhythm is the only honest description of Gatecrasher Red. A friend gave me Red in early 2002 and since then I have gone on a mad buying spree with the hope that I'll find an album that parallels Red. An album that inspires and uplifts you each time you pop it into your CD player. An album where you continually hear new and exciting parts even though you have previously listened to it innumerable times. An album that stands the test of time and remains today one of my favorite albums. I have found many albums that try, and are close, to paralleling Red, yet my efforts have been in vain. Gatecrasher Red is entirely unique and original, as far as trance goes, and will pay you back in the full with the many joyous moments that you will have from listening to this album. Do yourself a favor and buy this album... you won't regret it.

The start for me
This album started me into trance music, and serves as a constant reminder of what all music mixes should be. I started out liking "plasma," but as my tastes evolved, I liked "future" more and more. I still listen to this set endlessly, as it really gets at your emotions like good music should.

I believe what I was told about Red!
Okay first off Red is a great album! That said now let's cover the whys and hows.
Red has remixes of some of my favorite artists: Robert Miles, Garbage, ATB, PVD, Fatboy Slim, DJ Tiesto, LoveChild, and Basic Avalon. WOW!
Miles is ambient and his songs are awesome, having them remixed really brings out his talents. Garbage, well her voice says it all! I'll be seeing Garbage in concert May 17th. Should be a blast!!
ATB, PVD, and Fatboy Slim: I love all three for different reasons. Paul Van Dyk was introduced to me right beside Paul Oakenfold. Between the two, I'd have to say I enjoy Oakenfold more than PVD's style. These artists were good before the remixes. Now that they've been remixed at Gatecrasher, they sound even more awesome than I thought they could be!
I would have to say that Red and Digital are perfect for parties.

Wet is great for chilling out and working on projects with it playing in the background. If you do artwork or write, listen to Wet in the background. I've found it very relaxing.

The Red CD is only for those who love collecting trance. It's definitely a highly ranked album. But the songs are faded and mixed together & into each other, only buy this album if you like Gatecrasher and their styles, or if you want something to play during trance parties/DJing for a weekend. ... Read more

Amazon.com

As a guy who puts out 12-inch jungle singles on a regular basis, Aphrodite has found himself in a rut in the three years leading up to this release. As the partycentric "jump-up" style he favors began settling into a formula, he cranked out three or four duff tracks for every dance-floor stormer he's come up with. By this point, his disdain for experimentation is beginning to seem less like a principle and more like a dodge. Nearly every track that emerges from his camp relies on the same tambourine loop and wobbly bass line--though with a different rap sample thrown in to distinguish them. So consider his stateside debut album something of a surprise. Jumbling together tracks old and new, Aphrodite has put together an absolutely convincing summary of what he does and why. From "B.M. Funkster," which blatantly samples the O'Jays's "Money," to "Summer Breeze," which roughs up the immortal Seals & Crofts pop tune, Aphrodite doesn't exactly court subtlety. This is unapologetic dance music, too committed to moving the crowd to advance the science of jungle technology. When it doesn't work it has nothing else going for it to keep your interest. But when it's on--and this record is on--the music doesn't need anything else. --Jeff Salamon ... Read more

Reviews (26)

This disc shows that Aphrodite is not your everyday DJ.
In the modern world of electronic music, whether you have "DJ" before your title or not, a lot of artists have gopne from mixing and remixing other peoples' tracks to composing their own. Aphrodite is one in the jungle scene to pull off his own brilliant album, completely written and produced by himself. His long held reputation as a mixer shines through in this abum.

The bass is some of the funkiest you will come accross, and the remixes of his older tracks are real origninals. The CD "drops the funk" for 77 straight minutes, wihtout a dull moment. The beats is not as heavey as Dieselboy, but still are definitely appropriate for the dance floor.

If you listen to Nightmares on Wax, you will notice that Aphrodite samples them quite a bit, this is also evident on "The Takeover Bid".

This is definitely one original album you can't go without if you call yourself a drum and bass fan.

The best techno CD of the year...without a doubt!
Aphrodite takes you on an odyssey like no other DJ. I challenge anyone to listen to the whole CD without moving some part of your body. The mesmerizing quality of "King of the Beats" and "Listen to the Rhythm" compel you to dance. "Woman That Rolls" and "B.M. Funkster" are sooo funky. These songs are fresh, the beats are phat, and the bass is addictive. I'm looking forward to hearing more great music from Aphrodite.

King of beats and improv
Highlights:
The first track I really like on this album is the first track on the album, which is one of three interludes, also known as "Tower Tronic". It is a very relaxing instrumental, and it captures the spirit of Enya in a drum and bass rhythm. It makes for an interesting introduction, and it is probably my favorite track on the album.

The second track I really like is called Spice. it doesn't have very many lyrics, but I like the few it does have. I like the repeated and sporadic whispering of the word "spice". This track is my favorite track that isn't an interlude. It has a magical sort of quality to it.

The last favorite of mine is called Woman That Rolls. It has a very good beat, and it is hella catchy. I like the sound clip that he mixes in the song where he says "I need a woman that rolls with my arrangement".

What first time listeners might think/experience:
Most people have never heard or even heard of drums and bass/jungle. What it is is techno sounds with the sounds of a drum kit and a heavy beat, with a lot of emphasis placed on the beat. Instrumentation is more important than lyrics are in the genre. The songs are usually either completely instrumental or there isn't much to the lyrics, which often are something that is repeated and remixed into the song over and over, often in different ways.

An unexperienced listener would probably say that this guy stuck a bunch of musical tracks in some sort of imaginary sound blender, put the lid on, turned on the blender, and then, suddenly, ripped the cover off.. The resulting sound would be an Aphrodite track. Yes, that is what it sounds like on the surface... Everything seems sporadic, varying, unplanned.. but you may realize that it sounds professional.. it sounds alright.. It doesn't sound like a total piece of S#!T.. at all.. It is beautiful and great.. It's because he knows what he is doing..

For experienced listeners:
Simply to say, this guy is the master of improvisation. He knows all the rules.. he follows them.. yet, to your ears, it sounds like he's breaking rules, because there is so much going on. I've noticed one important feature. AT LEAST ONE beat/melody at a given remains constant. It may be hard to notice at times, but it is always true. The reason it is so hard to notice is because there are up to around 5 other tracks being played that are varying at a given time... What is weird and special about Aphrodite is that even in the variations there is much consistency.. if you listen closely enough you can tell that there was a lot of planning, practice, and preparation involved in this guy's work. I given Gavin a lot of credit because he knows his improv.. he obviously had musical training and education... Not only that, but he makes something so consistent seem so varying.. so inconsistent... he's really good at fooling people's ears.. especially someone who doesn't listen closely.

That's about all. Happy listening.

Surprisingly good, gets annoying at the end
Not being the biggest d&b fan, I was completely suprised to be enthralled by this album at the outset. What a groove, great bass track, never boring, seldom repetitious. Until the end of the album, where it seemed to fall a little short (otherwise, 5 stars). A worthy purchase nonetheless.

fine craft
Finally, somebody told a story. That is all i have to say. ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Brace yourself.
This is one of (M)u-ziq's (Mike Paradinas) best recordings and is also a good introduction to his sound. Several tracks contain soaring melodies accompanied by erratic beats. One nice thing is that the music never really gets old since you can't remember the structures immediately and don't know when and where to snap your fingers or tap your foot. Actually, its best if you don't try to do that - you might pull something. The album is also fresh for its manipulation of electronic, ambient, hip-hop, and other musical styles. My favorites from this album are "Brace Yourself Jason", "Hasty Boom Alert, "Mushroom Compost", and "Catkin & Teasel". All of these tracks, like I mentioned earlier, have a pleasant melody backed up by some very spontaneous and hyperactive beats. If you like Aphex Twin, then you may want to check this out. I don't like to compare U-ziq and Aphex because in my opinion their styles are different. U-ziq seems to have nicer melodies in his songs and his beats sound more drum like than Aphex's nut's & bolts in a blender sound. Not that Aphex Twin doesent have pretty melodies and varying beats, he just has less, and their usually placed in the middle of a set of unsettling tunes. The two actually made an album together, "Expert Knob Twiddlers", which isn't really that exciting when compared to either's individual recordings. Also recommended is U-ziq's 8 song EP, "Brace Yourself", which includes two remixes of "Brace Yourself Jason" and two more of my favorite U-ziq songs, "Summer Living" and "Abmoit". For something very refreshing and different in your CD collection, "Lunatic Harness" is definitely a must.

Nice album, worth a look
When I listen to the work of Mu-ziq I almost always have a grin on my face, it just sounds like fun music, it is fast, chaotic, and has great melodies. Ten out of the thirteen songs are great, but there are three weak tracks. "Approaching Menace" is just to much drill and bass, and gets supremely annoying after three minutes, it is to harsh for an otherwise fairly pleasant sounding album. "Wannabe" is just filler, pure and simple, it is weak stuff and makes me reach for the skip button. Finally I feel that "London" is a fairly junky track as well, it sounds like cheesy haunted house theme music.

Other than that it is a great album, it is like Aphex Twin without all the pretentiousness that comes along with RDJ. Mike Paradinas has made another nice album, check it out peoples.

Great range.
Consider what was happening in 97. This album was amazing when it came out and I still would put its creativity up against majority of the laptop generation of kids to this day.

This album is about knowing rhythm. Some of the most beautiful rhythms and composed beats I've ever heard when this album came out.

THE BEST ALBUM OF THE NINETIES
This is without doubt the most emotionally involving album ever made in the field of electronic music. And i think I've listened to just about all the rest of them.

Catkin And Teasel (Track 11) on its own displays more invention and depth than most other electronic artists manage in an entire career.

The drum programming on the album maybe have been surpassed in complexity, but never in inventiveness. Like watching Groucho Marx come out with a string of one liners, the rhythm tracks are utterly astonishing and display an impish sense of humour that appears simply nowhere else in music - especially in 2004.

Forget Weird Al Jankovic or DJ Rubbish. Think Thelonius Monk. Think Captain Beefheart. Real wit in music - not lyrically but in the actual notes - has been missing for decades. This album will make you wet yourself.

To combine such emotional intensity with a unique and seemingly inexhaustible rhythmic invention would be enough to ensure this album's place amongst the all time classics - but to present these ideas with a razor sharp musical wit makes Lunatic Harness come alive with a human personality that is sadly missing from the majority of electronic music - from 20 years ago or from today.

So all I can say is - "Ugh!"
(listen to track 1 "Brace Yourself Jason - you'll know what i mean)

Starts brilliant, ends weak
The first four or so tracks on this album are absolutely essential -- the spazzy xylophone and "ha!"-ing kung-fu girl on "Brace Yourself Jason", the churchy organ and demented drums of "Hasty Boom Alert", the off-kilter swagger of "Mushroom Compost", the almost-dancefloor-anthem of the title track. The first two tracks in particular are strongly reminiscent of an insanely breakbeaty take on In Sides-era Orbital, and that's high praise. Unfortunately, the inventiveness is too much to keep up for an entire album and the last few tracks are frankly dull. Still worth four stars for the quality of the start. Mind-expanding, infectious, enjoyable, and full of things to come back to. ... Read more