All About Various Artists

If you are feeling in the mood for something to generate atmosphere, yet downbeat but enough to be stirring, then look no further. The 'Om Lounge 15th Anniversary' album delivers some of the finest lounge house and chilled tunes [more]

Free to embrace a wide variety of artists and genres; spanning electronic, experimental, acoustic and dance, the chillout CD has become a staple for an amazingly varied group of music lovers. [more]

Cream have earned themselves a reputation from their inception for quality music from world class DJs. Unfortunately, Cream Future Trance 2008 is not the best example of this. [more]

Beck, Lily Allen, Franz Ferdinand and Peaches step into the studio to raise some coin for the children affected by war across the globe. [more]

What is with the dance scene’s Miami fixation? The one thing I could gather (through watching Burn Notice) is that it’s full of babes and is generally a big party. 24/7. Oh, ok... Now I get it. [more]

I can only speculate about the warm feelings attendees at this year’s Womadelaide event in March floated home on, but if this selection of tunes is any indication of the quality of the performance, they were one lucky crowd. [more]

There’s something rather traumatic about picking up a 'retrospective' CD to review and finding that you remember most of the tracks from the first time around. Even so, this is an absolutely gleeful trip down memory lane. [more]

Om Records return with a great little compilation showing off their ability to pick and choose the perfect tracks. [more]

No longer the sole province of obscure, oddly named and bearded Norwegians, nu-disco has made a mark on the club scene that extends well beyond small sweaty cult nights. Here mainstream UK house label Azuli give their overview. [more]

Dazzlingly shiny, happy and unashamedly cheesy at times, triple-disc albums like this one always manage to get your feet moving and even send your mouth into an upward curve (err, a smile!) [more]

The Get Physical label has done little wrong over the last few years. Here, it once again misplaces very few feet with the fourth instalment of the 'Full Body Workout' series. [more]

Catskills Records was founded in 1997 by a London and Brighton based collective, with the aim of releasing music - any music – that had what the label deemed “Head Nod Factor”. [more]

For a second year, Fuzzy and Ministry of Sound have teamed up to capture the best moments of one of Australia’s most iconic music festivals, Parklife. [more]

Since being founded back in 1998 by co-owners Wolfgang Voigt, Jurgen Paape and Michael Mayer, the Kompakt label has become synonymous with the 'Cologne techno sound', going on to release more than 120 vinyl and 40 CD releases. [more]

Maybe I am just jaded, but I don’t know if it’s a case of Finger Lickin’ making some really poor music lately, or simply crap music selection by Utah Saints, but here is another ‘breaks’ mix that simply does little to impress me. [more]

The 'DJ Masters' series from Central Station continues this month with two brand new three disc sets containing the latest unmixed DJ edits of the best (ahem) dance music around. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Hmmm... [more]

From 1999-2003 Strut Records was a UK-based label specialising in re-releasing original funk, disco, soul and afrobeat. Recently acquired and revived by the !K7 group, 'Calypsoul 70' follows the recent Nigeria 70 compilation. [more]

Compiled by co founder Xaver Naudascher, this 2CD unmixed collection gathers together the entirety of Supersoul's vinyl and digital output so far, and represents a collaborative venture alongside DFA's new Death From Abroad sublabel. [more]

The 'Strange Soul' compilation is hard to place. It has no glue to stick one song to the next, aside from the questionable distinction that each of the 16 tracks fall within the admittedly loose definition of ‘soul music’. [more]

An album that’s not particularly strange, despite its name, is nonetheless a decent listen - thanks to some inspired tune selection. [more]

Progression from Ministry of Sound focuses on the progressive sounds that have been dominating the world of digital downloads. While not being particularly underground in its own right it provides a pointer to where the mainstream may be heading. [more]

Ministry of Sound, the world’s most famous superclub and dance music brand, has released their latest mix compilation album 'Anthems 1991 – 2008'. [more]

Having played host to some of the world’s key movers and shakers in the dance scene for almost 8 years, Global Gathering has made a name for itself as a worldwide event which you really ought to attend if the opportunity arises. [more]

Rockstar Games and the Grand Theft Auto series has been criticised for its violence and promoting hazy moral standards. They should be criticised for lack of imagination, especially, given the quality of the past game soundtracks have been so good. [more]

If you haven’t heard of Hed Kandi, bought one of their CDs or headed along to one of their parties, you’d have to be hiding under a damn large rock. [more]

'Verve' is a series of classic tunes remixed by some of todays biggest names. Don't be expecting your bog standard house rerubs though; this CD maintains it's chilled status with most tracks not going a single beat over 110 BPB. [more]

Ed Banger Records is one of the few labels out there that's almost as big as its artists. But the experimentation and innovation of its birth is long gone, and nothing shows it more vividly than this compilation. [more]

Strut Records is quickly building a solid rep as a reissue label to rival Soul Jazz and this excellent collection of afro-beat, highlife and afrofunk tracks will do nothing to hurt that reputation. [more]

'Global Chilling', the new 2008 release under the Pacha label with artists like Radiohead, Jose Gonzalez and Groove Armada, was set to be a winner from the start. Wrong. [more]

If you’re a dubstep fan and into the minimal side of the genre, then you’ll probably love this release. But if you’re new to the sound or just a casual listener, there are much better sets available. 'Tectonic Plates' fails to be earth shattering. [more]

First, a disclaimer: I have never had the good fortune to watch the show which spawned this angsty, tough little soundtrack, despite having every good intention of doing so. [more]

The very moment the teaser flashed up behind a jubilant MC-DV8 at the State Sports Centre last summer, I made the dogged resolution not to miss out on this one - the Q-Dance Australia Tour 2008. Insert. Turn Up Bass. Stomp. Get Fucking Wasted. [more]

Brasil! Terra do sol de brilho e da noite sensual. Sua música faz-me ansiar para um console abandonado, um cocktail do coco e o toque do ar salgado morno em minha pele… [more]

Celebrating its 20th year, uber-hip German label Unique have brought out yet another quality compilation. Swiss duo Soulinus and Pun have been given the task of putting together the album, and what an album it is. [more]

From the urban efficiency of Berlin to the warm self-indulgence of Paris, the grimy street smarts of the Midlands to the glories of Cyprus, Elektrotribe has certainly cast its net far and wide to come up with another terrific haul. [more]

The danger with any compilation series is, how many actual albums is a label able to bring out before the whole series loses its defining individuality? [more]

The Numero label continues their fine tradition of unearthing lost gems this seventeen track compilation of teenage funk and soul. [more]

Long before Katrina hit, New Orleans gave birth to jazz, which of course it is well known for. However, its healthy funk scene however seems to be underappreciated. [more]

Admittedly, when I put my hand up for this review I had no ‘real’ idea of what Jumpstyle is. Well, after 18 painful tracks over 70 odd minutes, I now know; and maybe wish I didn’t. [more]

Mark Farina's 'Fabric 40' is rather good. Actually, it's more than that, it’s quite possibly one of the best house mixes I’ve ever heard. Fabric proving they're only maturing with age. [more]

‘Tribute’ albums consisting of cover versions of well-known artists’ backcatalogues are always something of a tricky proposition – particularly when the subject in question is someone as prodigious and inimitable as Prince. [more]

Ninja Tune show off their range of excellent artists and music with a compilation that shows other record labels how it should be done. [more]

This fifth volume in the unmixed series sees Kitsune maintaining their tastemaker’s edge, with the 18 tracks assembled here taking in the well-known likes of Rex The Dog, M.I.A. and Alan Braxe alongside a brace of newer names. [more]

With the rise of the indie-electronic cross-genre band (think Bloc Party, Klaxons and The Presets who all feature on this CD), we've seen an increasing presence of electronic selections in Triple J's yearly package. [more]

Hed Kandi may not have a reputation for being the most cutting edge or underground of labels. In fact, most house fans probably smirk at the mention of it, long binned as a commercial house label to be tolerated and maybe even secretly indulged in. [more]

This collection glides in next to other compilations like Stones Throw Funky 16 Corners and Cold Heat releases, or the Numero Group's Eccentric Soul series. All these tunes sound like unearthed gems from the soul era. [more]

East London pirate station Rinse started up over a decade ago, by belting out a playlist leaning towards jungle and drum n' bass. But this first mix under the Rinse brandname features the finest in grime, dub-step and house. [more]

The 4-CD compilation box set features artists from all over the spectrum, with names like Jazzanova, Mo' Horizons, Stephane Pompougnac and Thievery Corparation who are all well worth a mention. [more]

Hamburg record label Légère Recordings is back with a follow up to Come On Soul! Compiled by purveyors of all things soul, both old and new, the album matches original soul from the late 60s and 70s with modern numbers. [more]

One of the most beautiful things about jazz is that there are so many different ways that it can be interpreted. [more]

Hot on the heels of 2006’s 'Box of Dub', Soul Jazz returns with the sequel to the label’s showcase of dub and dubstep. [more]

Do you like it hard? Like it fast? Do you want your music pumping to a furious and frenetic pace? Then the triple offering of 'Hard, Fast and Furious' mixed by Mark Eg, Anna Savage and Force may well be high on this year’s xmas wish list. [more]

The compilation that is set to build-up your saliva reserves, even before Field Day hits the domain for 2008. [more]

If you have any interest in dub or reggae whatsoever, I have one piece of advice for you: get this album. [more]

Taking a shotgun approach is a tactic employed in many areas, not just shooting. In taking this avenue the subject is casting their nets far and wide, with the logic that the bigger spread of the launch the more likely reward. [more]

For almost 20 years, Frankie Knuckles, Satoshi Tomiie, David Morales and Hector Romero have been a driving force in house music, and under the Def Mix banner they have remixed everyone from Loleatta Holloway through to U2. [more]

This album is a collection of soulful reggae originals and reggae versions of classic soul tracks, that yet again proves that Soul Jazz Records have their shit together. [more]

Brighton based label Tru Thoughts, self confessed 'jazzbreakshiphopsoulfunkbeatsounds' specialists, are back with a new release, 'Shapes 07:02 - All New Amazing Sounds'. [more]

‘Tropicalia’ describes a movement in arts culture starting in Brazil during the height of dictatorial political oppression in 1968: it encompasses art, poetry and music. [more]

For the first time in a while the listener feels as if they are actually listening to the future of happy hardcore. The title ‘Rebooted’ could not have been more appropriate. Happy hardcore is most definitely not dead - it’s evolving. [more]

From a time when the phrase dubstep was barely a blip in the contemporary soundscape, Hot Flush’s early reconfigurations of breakstep and garage have left an indelible mark and provided a launch pad for some of the sound’s most creative talents. [more]

If you're like me and don’t buy vinyl, then this is a good collection of (some of) the biggest tracks from the past 5 years. It’s not a comprehensive collection, but nevertheless it's enjoyable. And yes, it’s heavyyy! [more]

As its title more or less blatantly suggests, this sprawling 3-disc collection from UK-based compilation label Resist offers up an instant stack of recent tracks culled from London’s thriving dubstep, grime and bass scenes. [more]

I've never been a big fan of the _Chillout_ series from MOS, but this for me changes that. While there is a significant difference between the two CDs, it is welcomed, and offers a greater level of diversity, as well as some red-hot tracks. [more]

Does this compilation have every track it should have on it? I‘d have to say no. But it does have a great variety of tracks that do cover off on a lot of different aspects of house music, including some of the best tracks from the last few years. [more]

With the number of trance compilations, collections and 'Best Of' CDs appearing on shelves in recent months, you could think one of two things... [more]

I'm generally suspicious of comps claiming to be the 'Best Of' or the 'Definitive Guide To', as it implies that this it's the most important CD of music from an artist or a genre, when usually it's actually a collection of what the label could clear. [more]

'The World’s Greatest Funky House Mix' is a great compilation for all those who love house music, no matter the sub-genre. It covers the many faces of house music very well, with both very well known and less well known tracks to inspire listeners. [more]

All up, this is Hed Kandi sticking to a tried and tested formula, and doing what they have done so well in years gone by. While there is nothing too controversial, there is plenty to keep the masses happy. [more]

A cool group of artists offer their intepretations of the blurring of dance and rock. [more]

The Armada brand is firmly entrenched on the clubbing island Ibiza, playing throughout the Euro summer of 2007 on a regular Tuesday timeslot. The 2 CD mix features some of the latest tracks released by the Dutch label. [more]

Underground Loop is a ground-breaking mentorship program which has facilitated collaborations between leading Australian hip hop artists and young males within Victoria’s Juvenile Justice System. [more]

Around the mid-1930s the traditional jazz of yesteryear was shaken up with a new groove that would prove to be the popular sound for the next decade. We are of course talking about swing. [more]

Oversized sunglasses? Check. Fleuro singlet? Check. Headband? Check. General awareness about the multitude of performers? Nope? Well go no further, as the 2007 Parklife album gives us a snapshot of 19 of the biggest names performing at Parklife. [more]

The early rock/dance crossover releases from the mighty Kitsune Maison label were stupendously and outrageously off the wall, but as thius compilation demonstrates, they're now walking the fine line between cool and contrived. [more]

Compilation albums are usually hit and miss, but there are always exceptions to the rule. Bringing together tantalizing offerings from Creative Vibes, 'Funky & Some More' is a mean compilation of mammoth proportions. [more]

Dub Anthology provides a diverse selection of the more traditional as well as more contemporary dub flavours that have evolved since the genre emerged via reggae music from Jamaica around 40 years ago. [more]

Intended to act as a snapshot of the current UK scene, this first volume in DMC’s ongoing ‘Neon Nights Mixtape’ series concentrates on drawing its tracklisting from unsigned and up-and-coming acts [more]

Originally established to put Munich's Compost label, which had been typically focused in the soul/jazz vein, into the dance floor realm by taking a more tech-house and disco direction, the offshoot Black Label series has become an entity unto itself [more]

Transmitting over the airwaves on the frequency of 92.7 FM is Fresh FM. Being the only radio station dedicated to the youth of South Australia, Fresh FM is well established in the local radio landscape. [more]

Ho hum, just another top quality 'Studio One' compilation from England's Soul Jazz Records. Volume 2 showcases a dub style that doesn't rely on effects too heavily, and for the most part brings the horns to the fore. [more]

Out now on Global Underground is compilation 'Isst' from Kevin Griffiths & Boney M, inspired by the legendary underground electro parties in London. The duo have served up a selection of music so cutting edge it is likely to cut your ears off. [more]

From electro to trance, the latest addition to the Wild Weekend series, 'Wild Weekends Vol 4', will suffice your aural hunger and keep you in the party mood all night long! [more]

Well respected west coast house label *Om* brings us the second installment in their _Summer Session_ series, and this time we have Chi-town goddess DJ Heather and NY tech/house junkie Onionz taking over the duties. [more]

Broken Tooth Entertainment is a collective of Australian hip hop artists formed in 2002, and Dental Records Vol. 1 is the first in a series that is designed to showcase and represent talent on this label, of which there is plenty. [more]

Seamless Recordings have thrown together a comprehensive collection of tracks that start from hip hop’s humble beginnings on a 2 disc set, Old School Hip Hop Volume 1. [more]

Stones Throw Records, under the guise of Now-Again, has been putting out and reissuing quality funk for almost six years, the latest to come from this rarer than rare groove label is 'Re:Sounds'. [more]

One of the most influential house music labels in history, Strictly Rhythm, began releasing quality music in 1989, here MAW provide a retrospective of some of their favourite records over that time. [more]

Stones Throw have once again teamed up with late night animation network Adult Swim to release Chrome Children Vol. 2. [more]

In 1997 a new force entered the electronic music scene that would go on to shape tastes, genres and provide joyous moments to listeners worldwide. We are of course talking about Berlin's Sonar Kollectiv. [more]

Flashes of brilliance are tempered with less remarkable moments to create a set which excites and underwhelms in equal measure. Mixed results make Box of Dub a lucky dip. [more]

The fifth instalment in the New Testament of Funk series, 'Twelve Morlocks Of The Real Beat!' featuring some incredibly funky cuts ranging from fat hip hop beats, tripped out acid jazz, manic DnB and party breaks. [more]

It’s a funk and soul revival. Super Cool: California Soul II brings together a collection of some of the lost and rare tracks out of the west coast from 1966 to 1982. [more]

GUMIXED is the latest installment from the legendary Global Underground label. Revered for their GU: 0XX series, GU puts their name in the spotlight once again with one of the best compilations of the year. [more]

The Netherlands’s Rush Hour Records team up their young buck, Cinnaman, with Spacek Soundsystem’s Jay Scarlett, compiling an album dedicated to new developments in beats. [more]

Camino Blue, quite appropriately, describes themselves as “Science fiction drum and bass for the 21st century”. They are a German based label that nurtures a very distinct sound in DnB. [more]

‘Shut Up And Dance! Updated’ sees Berlin clubbing institution Berghain’s newly established Ostgut Ton label drawing together a stellar cast of global minimal techno talent together to compose music especially for the Staatsballet Berlin [more]

Lewis Recordings is a young label that’s home to an eclectic group of acts that won’t appeal to a mass audience, but rather inspire rampant fandom amongst a small cult following. [more]

As the colder months settle in, Defected come to the rescue yet again with another fine selection of warming floor-fillers in their native accapella unmixed format... [more]

Hotel Puerta America in Madrid is a concept hotel featuring 13 floors, each designed by a different architect including Norman Foster, famous for his London building affectionately known as the "Gherkin". [more]

Freerange Records launches the forth installment of the Colour Series; Green 04. [more]

Hospital Records is well known for putting out some excellent compilation albums, and their latest offering, 'The Future Sound of Tokyo', is a CD that won't do any damage to their strong reputation. [more]

Hyphy has been used as one of those words that people say to make people know that they play music other people don’t know anything about. [more]

Seventeen kings of one of the world's greatest record labels, for anyone with any interest in Jamaican music this record is an essential buy. [more]

The chaos of this genre-bending selection seems to suit the fickle nature of the fashion industry. Making its acquaintance is bound to educate your ears and stretch your understanding of modern music. [more]

Original Rave Selection is a throwback to the birth of dance music. The double-disc compilation is 24 tracks full of old school tracks, and it's a trip down memory lane for those old enough to be present at the dawn of electronic music. [more]

Whilst Daft Punk-inspired (imitation?) filtered house music was riding high in mainstream clubs, their manager Busy P (aka Pedro Winter) was hastily bringing back unpretentious fun to French dance music. [more]

QN5 has a roster full of underground artists who may be short of profile, but they're definitely not short on skill. [more]

Playloop Records is the label, and this is their latest sampler. On the whole, label samplers can sometimes be as tricky as dressing for Melbourne’s weather. [more]

Cosmic is like a wild LSD trip: Afro mixed with German electronics, percussion solos, Bolero with delay effects, 12"s on 33 instead of 45, 70s Krautrock, Industrial... [more]

‘Music and Me’ launches a new collection of concept albums focusing on high profile 'artists' in the fields of sports and film whom also have an affinity with music. [more]

The Freedom Writers soundtrack features some of the hottest names in hip-hop, past and present, plus some new tracks well worth a listen. [more]

London-based label Slip'N'Slide release their brand new series of label-led compilations, starting off with Chicago's Still Music house music imprint. This is one smooth compilation. [more]

The concept of publishing sampled tracks is a winner in my book, leading to the education of many in the origins of hip hop. [more]

There’s no questioning Hospital’s power in the scene, and there’s no doubt that the tunes released from the album will get a fair work out in clubs. [more]

Over the years we've seen many a compilation come out containing dance floor classics and best selling tracks. 'Floorfillers Anthems' is another such compilation... Three unmixed CDs span this collection. [more]

An interesting snapshot of what's happening a selection of producers from one of Australia's most exciting independent record labels. [more]

Independent French record label Wagram Music have assembled a 4 CD anthology of tasty nu jazz titbits from a selection of established and less well known artists. [more]

Wether you are an emo-kid or a superstar-wannabe-DJ, you will probably find something that will appeal to you on this double disc release. You may sulk, but you most certainly will dance... [more]

The label that was synonomous with house music in the early 1990's had returned in a haze of old school anthems and classic tunes... [more]

Following on from other legends Quentin Harris and Kerri Chandler, comes Chicago house don Ron Trent with his mix in the Coast2Coast series on NRK. [more]

...the auditory traveller may rest in the ‘lounge’ and enjoy a tasteful and elegant journey without any fear of not having the correct documentation or being subjected to a cavity search... [more]

Those blessed with the authentic ‘80s experience will recall side-stepping dance moves with delight, newbies will marvel that their current fave band has ‘borrowed’ explicitly from this era. [more]

Unlike previous releases in the heady hey day of Om's chilled out offerings, this throwaway attempt at licorice sweet lullaby music is very ‘blah’. [more]

The latest mix to come from seminal house label Defected is In The House: Miami 2007, packed full with some of the house hotness we can expect to come out from the WMC. It's a great choice for those dying for a taste of the Miami dance experience. [more]

London label Tirk has made quite the impression since it emerged from the receivership ashes of parent company Nuphonic’s previous incarnation just two short years ago [more]

Considering this album has scanned over the past 10 years worth of chillaxin tunes, for selecting the cream of the crop from such a variety of music MOS have done a pretty good job. [more]

Upon initial glance, Luftkastellet 4's arty aesthetics and conceptual cool could pass as little but the musical equivalent of Wallpaper magazine. But scratch beneath the icy surface... [more]

Why? Why? Why? Why must these multi-million dollar hotel chains continue to pummel the market with half assed compilations of rehashed ‘chill out’ tracks. [more]

Southport Weekender is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2007 with the release of a a two-disc Classics album. The Weekender only happens twice a year: this album takes you there every time its played. [more]

One of the most notable record labels in the history of Jamaican music, Studio One was a central force in the development of reggae, especially ska and rocksteady. [more]

The first thing you notice about this album, apart from the garish lime green artwork, is the description of what is inside, "Hip shaking grooves made in Germany 1967-1974". [more]

Following the success of their '12 Inches of Pleasure Part I', comes 'Part II'. This time however instead of just singles from BBE, it contains rare and unreleased tracks and remixes. [more]

Many diehard music fans will have copies of these tracks in various versions and remixes, but if you're after a nicely packaged music history lesson than 'Xtravaganza: Classics of 10 Years'. [more]

Over the past few years Azuli has become renowned for picking out future hits well before they end up smashing dancefloors across the globe. In this year’s release once again, it's highly likely they’ve sourced a few more dance floor killers. [more]

It’s that time again, a little bit of the sting has been taken out of the sun and the silly season is starting to wind down, it must be time for Good Vibrations. [more]

This is a sound, if uneven, compilation that will just breeze past comfortably without asking anything of you. [more]

Urban House you say? What is it? An attempt to identify house that is what I would call garage style house or vocal house, as opposed from the now more prevalent electro house. [more]

The third in the popular Global Underground: Afterhours series mixed by in-house resident, The Forth. Spanning three discs the music ranges from grimy hip-hop through to Norwegian techno and everything in between. [more]

The 100th release on Eighteenth Street Lounge (ESL) marks a momentous occasion that was formed by the partnership of Rob Garza and Eric Hilton, better known as Thievery Corporation. [more]

Volume 10 in the 'DJ Masters Unmixed' series from Central Station acts as the ultimate resource for the DJ who prefers CDs to vinyl. [more]

Delve into the depths of deep drum and bass courtesy of record label Fokuz. [more]

Lots of sounds from all over the dance spectrum make for a compilation that will have something somewhere for people who like their sounds up beat. Any DJ could make use of this selection and even use this to cross genres during their set. [more]

This compilation showcases some of the excellent reggae produced by Jamaican record label The Talent Corporation, a label born of the belief that Jamaican music deserved the same exposure and promotion as that from overseas. [more]

It was under the banner “Future Roots Music” that Chicago label Hefty Records began operating under 10 years ago. Set up by local producer John Hughes, AKA Slicker, expect everything from experimental electronica to jazz, hip hop and more. [more]

DJ Andy Smith is let loose on the back catalogue of Freestyle records and lets loose a collection of fun inspired funk, latin and soul. [more]

This is definitely an interesting listen and manages great diversity in what is a pretty tight compilation. It pushes the boundaries a little and leads the listener down some unexpected paths, so it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. [more]

The next edition in the series, 'Coastal Chill 07', compiles the who’s who of folk, blues and roots in this fine compilation set for the upcoming summer. [more]

Beanbag, what is it? Apparently a new style of music coming out of the "welfare-class suburb of Stephens on the Gold Coast, Australia, beanbag is best described as lounge music for people who can't afford lounges." [more]

Born out of the radio program with the same name, and simulcast weekly on the Austereo network, Loaded comes, not surprisingly ‘loaded’ with an impressive array of 22 tracks that have, at various times, been popular radio and dance floor hits. [more]

When you set out for ten years in search of amazing music, digging through crates all over world you would expect to come back with some phenomenal music thought to be lost forever. [more]

Max Power sounds like a porno name. But it’s actually the name of a UK car magazine for people who are ‘passionate about performance’. [more]

This double CD is the second in a series from Brazilian venue Chakras, offering two sides of the dance music spectrum by showcasing talent from two very different sides of the world. [more]

Glasgow techno label Soma has had a huge year; celebrating 15 years of industry dominance and the release of their 200th single. [more]

The mighty Studio One - one the most powerful and influential labels in the history of reggae - is a cornerstone in the genre, and props must be given to Soul Jazz for their commitment to digging up these absolute treasures. [more]

Comprising of an impressive 67 tracks (on the whole, impressive in number only), it literally has a bit of everything: from MC Hammer to the Monkees; Billy Idol to Bob Sinclar; even Bill Haley and his Comets decide to ‘Rock Around the Clock’. [more]

One World Music bring us the fourth in the Zen Connection series, with tripped out vibes and Middle Eastern beats spanning two discs, compiled and lightly mixed by Leigh Wood. [more]

Kanzleramt Vol 6 is the second to be mixed by Heiko Laux. If you’re a fan of electro/house and like something a little less mainstream, then it's worth checking out. [more]

What happens when you combine the unique sounds of Brazillian jazz samba, Peruvian folk and Afro soul? The answer is simple: Luaka Bop, one of the world's finest labels. [more]

Tres as a label is well respected on our shores, be it through Thes One's frequent visits to Australia (one half of People Under The Stairs), or through the recent brilliant albums from Lightheaded and Giant Panda. [more]

I give 'Studio One Rude Boy' a big thumbs up. Not only is it a fascinating insight into the origins of dance-hall music, it's 100% pure reggae maaaaan, therefore, the perfect album to chill out to this summer. [more]

Whoever does the A&R for all encompassing German label Sonar Kollective obviously has impeccable skills. [more]

When I first got my hot little hands on this CD it was absolutely not what I’d been expecting... For some reason, I was expecting an uplifting house experience. [more]

With the minimal scene exploding in Europe over the last twelve months, the trickle effect is well and truly at work with the release of Destroy Minimal. [more]

One of the best things about CDs like this is that as a listener you are presented with a great starting point from which to investigate new artists and new sounds. Having not heard a lot of this genre, it’s certainly opened my ears. [more]

Last year’s release is still being squeezed out as a brilliant soundtrack to dinner parties, casual weekend drinks and lazy days by the pool, wherever you hail from. The “over it” value is low and I suspect it will grow on you like moss on rock. [more]

Funk, jazz, soul and disco with African rhythms. What's not to like? [more]

The third of the compilations to be borne out of and inspired by Melbourne’s Joy FM, this one, like it’s predecessors, certainly has plenty to please the fans. [more]

If MIA and Diplo have been booming from your speakers, you’d be crazy not to wrap this scorching mix of sex, sweat and syncopated sounds round your ears. It’s either this or booking the next flight to Rio. [more]

Entry fees to Ibiza’s superclubs may be over one hundred of your hard-earned bucks, but when you hear a release like this it makes you wanna start saving those pennies. [more]

The recent “minimal explosion” has been met with speculation, and in most critical circles first cynicism, then contempt. [more]

Even though this is an extremely chilled mix, it’s not so detached that you can’t get into it. The mix ebbs and flows with enough momentum to keep you engaged, and really is a pleasure to listen to. [more]

The latest offering from the Sonar Kollectiv (Vol 6) is typically a cruisey selection of dub sounds and nujazz. [more]

Club Azuli 02/06 is the 2nd in a series of four releases this year for Azuli Records. 02/06 is all about electro-house and features some of the year's biggest anthems from Roger Sanchez, Steve Angello, Freeform Five, Pete Heller and more. [more]

From Joseph Lovett's documentary 'Gay Sex in the 70s' comes the official soundtrack on West End Records. As you would expect it is jam packed with 70s disco funk and is intertwined with snippets from the film. [more]

Are you feeling a little nostalgic as we drift towards 2010? Put on your baggy pants, grab a glow stick and do the rewind back to the 1990s. It's not as bad as you think! [more]

It’s more than a little concerning when an album bearing the moniker “Classics” comes out and you remember most of the tunes from your time on the dance floor. [more]

I can’t admit to being all that down with the London dub step scene – a bit hard to stay in the loop when you’re thousands of kilometres away, I have to say – but I was keen to know more. [more]

Ah nostalgia. Dance has been around long enough for nostalgia to be taking effect. Here we have a commendable collection of 80s dance tracks, all of which were released on 12” vinyl. Donna Summer, Wham! Dead or Alive, Art of Noise, Level 42… [more]

Based in the comparatively smaller German city of Moers, over the past five years Switchstance Recordings have certainly carved out a distinctive position amongst the European hiphop / downbeat landscape. [more]

While the previous two volumes of Sydney label Groovescooter’s ‘Re-Fashioned’ series have focused upon Australian electronic artists reinterpreting classic Australian and UK rock / indie / pop tracks respectively, for this third volume, as the loaded [more]

As video games have developed into a global phenomenon, I guess it was only a matter of time until they got original soundtracks (and Saint's Row is by no means the first). Here it’s half big names and half forgettable nobodies. [more]

ITM50 offers dance music fans a snapshot from two of Australia’s finest movers and groovers. Nick Thayer has already garnered international acclaim and Robkay has been turning heads for sometime with his DJing and remix work. [more]

Since its inception back in 2001, Daft Punk’s Parisian Kitsune label has certainly forged parallel distinctive and well-received paths in both the music and clothing design spheres [more]

All in all it’s a tidy little collection, enjoyable for a listen and encouraging for the label as I really believe hip-hop is better with a strong Def Jam. [more]

Studio One, the influential Jamaican record label spanning the years of ska, rocksteady and reggae, lasted an impressive fifty years. [more]

mix that has the influences of downtempo grooves and electronica, house and other dance oriented sounds.... [more]

A two disc tribute to the Marine Parade story thus far with the first and feature disc a monstor 23 track mashup from San Fran's The Bassbin Twins. [more]

Fabriclive 28 travels a path of gritty electro, minimal techno, punk, rock, house and of course breakbeat. [more]

Tiefschwarz deliver a moody mix with an eclectic range of sounds borrowing from minimal and deep, glitch and tech sounds. [more]

For anyone who wishes they were in Ibiza, soaking it up both of these CDs will do their best to take you there without $5,000 sitting in your bank account. [more]

The 16th installment continues the theme of packing more DJs over a number of discs to deliver even more variety as the list includes such stalwarts as Hixxy, Recon, Sharkey, CLSM, Kutski, Scott Brown and Gammar. [more]

For those of you suffering through a nasty southern winter, it could be just the thing to put some sunshine into your mood. [more]

While it’s not a mix that you’ll keep going back to time and time again to study, it’s certainly a mix that you will drag out when you just want to make yourself grin from ear to ear. I just love it to bits because of that. [more]

Finally a ‘respectable’ release to fill the gap between the lazily title ‘world’ and ‘dance’ sections, perhaps coming to a record shop near you. [more]

Soul Jazz Records may have the exclusive rights to Studio One records, but they don't have a monopoly on re-releasing classic reggae, as French label Nova demonstrate with this excellent compilation. [more]

After an impressive 15 years in the business, Glasgow-based independent Soma Records have released their milestone 200th record. Peppered throughout the album is a heady mix of minimal, house, electro and techno... [more]

Another release from Elefant, another quality collection of tunes, not for fans of gangsta rap but definitely for fans of music. [more]

A collection of classic songs re-imagined for the ultimate road trip? Unfortunately, my initial misgivings are confirmed. [more]

Containing music ranging from blues to nujazz to latin house, this compilation gives you a taste of some of Spain’s most exciting producers. [more]

The hybrid House2Hard mashes up four by four, glitchy tech and banging beats. [more]

Burnt Progress 1.1 is something I’m extremely glad I came across. A compilation of unreleased, unsigned, and interestingly enough in one or two cases, unfinished music. [more]

Following the success of Central Energy Nxt Generation, the trio of Amber Savage, Archie and Baby Gee are back with XX: Level 20. [more]

Spread over three CDs, this tribute to the “long player” is a journey from early disco Legends like Donna Summa, Dianna Ross and Chic, to new wave innovators like Blondie and Public Image Ltd. [more]

S.M.A.C.K (or Streets Music Arts Culture & Knowledge) is the group behind perhaps the most successful DVD magazine series in hip-hop, as well as independent label Koch Records. [more]

Calling all Bonkers fans... this one is for you! Bonkers 15 hits the shelves... watch out for the curveball. [more]

Ku De Ta opens the curtain onto its gorgeous beaches and exotic nightspots through this blissful collection of tracks. [more]

The second box set in Central Station�s commemorative set to celebrate their 30 years in the business gets stuck into one of the most prolific and enduring genres Australia has enjoyed. [more]

If you're like me and are very particular about what you want from a chill compilation, the vast quantity of titles can be a bit overwhelming. [more]

For over 12 years F Com has been responsible for many inspirational and timeless pieces of electronica, they clearly define what music can and should be. [more]

Label showcase compilations seem to be making a triumphant return in the year 2006, as several smaller players look for a bigger piece of the hip-hop pie. [more]

Since the release of the first volume of its attendant compilation series through UK-based label Fine a couple of years ago, uber-fashionable Berlin club F.U.N. has continued to increase its reputation and profile [more]

January�s release of the Salsoul 30th Anniversary album was a huge success (in fact, it has become Salsoul�s biggest selling album to date) and so Salsoul has decided to follow up this success with an encore album. [more]

Global Underground is a name that needs no introduction � but that wasn�t always the case. [more]

In the vein of Verve Remixed, and the fifth in the series, comes �Rewind! 5� on Ubiquity Records, a collection of songs by such artists as the Beach Boys, Prince and Burt Bacharach that have been given a modern cover. [more]

Celebrating four rather prolific years, Berlin based electro-driven Get Physical label are back with their second compiler mixed by label founders M.A.N.D.Y. [more]

If you're into this type of fare then chances are you already know what to expect from a Buzzin' Fly/Ben Watt compilation. There's a high probability then that you're already dropping your absolute shit over its imminent release... [more]

The second volume of Saturdays at Family features a selection of house music cuts. Whilst there is nothing outstanding or unique on the release that sets it apart from anything else out there at the moment, it does provide a house experience reminiscent of a night at Family. [more]

Freestyle is a label still in its infancy, yet already with an enviable catalogue and firmly established fan base already established. This is modern Jazz, Funk, Soul, Breaks and House mashed together into an attractive little package for our listening pleasure. [more]

The most noticeable thing about Modern Sounds From Italy 2 is that the sound on the album is neither Italian, nor particularly modern. Instead the compilation captures a jazz sound that fuses electronic and organic instrumentation. [more]

German label, Lounge Records serves up the third in their 'Smoove Moves' series. This left of centre compilation contains a stack of unreleased and brand new tracks from the label, tanging from breakbeat, to nu jazz, soul, house and everything in between there is something in here for everyone. [more]

I am always suspicious of albums that claim to be the "ultimate" in a certain genre, how one, or in this case four, CDs can encapsulate a sound is beyond me. I certainly wasn't proved wrong with "Ultimate House Session", mixed by Paul Johnson, Muarice Joshua and Ash Gordon. [more]

Over the last several years, Ann Arbor, Michigan-based label Ghostly International and its sister imprint Spectral Sound have amassed one of the most enviable rosters of artists currently operating in leftfield electronic and techno spheres [more]

From the moment promoter Scott Robertson had the genius idea of turning the glamorous ArtHouse venue into a weekly dance music destination, wallah - a new Sydney clubbing brand was born. [more]

A compilation of nu-folk for beat maestros grows on you more with every listen [more]

If you love DnB it's likely you've already picked up Nightlife 1, 2 and 3, but on the off chance you haven't - do it. If you're not usually into the style, and wanna check out the best of the best then this is what you're looking for in recent release CDs. [more]

If you want to dance around your bedroom, or warm yourself up for a good night out on the town, this is the CD for you! Don't expect magic mixing, or breathtaking manoeuvres with 4 decks and a mixer - just expect a good fun CD. [more]

Fans of Rise Nightclub, David Forbes & Mallorca Lee, those wanting to visit Rise and those who were there in attendance during the filming of the DVD should really dash down to their favorite CD shops and snap this one up. [more]

Suffice to say "Pharmacy vol. 3: Down with the Sickness" has surpassed its objective of creating that feel of being there in a mix CD with dark shaded colours! [more]

When the nation's hard dance addicts are getting ready for a big night out you can almost guarantee that they'll reach for a CD in the Ministry of Sound Hard NRG series to get them warmed up for some stomping or shuffling out there on the floor. [more]

With 9 unmixed tracks featuring artists from Lexicon Avenue, Herbersham and Group Therapy I thought and expeced a little more...... [more]

I recommend this compilation for Hector's mix on its own; and in truth half of Juan's mix is utterly brilliant, so you are getting one and half mixes of true quality. [more]

While "a celebration of music from around the world" is a very apt description of this BBC Radio compilation it does not go far enough. This is a world-class collection of music from around the world. [more]

Defected partner label, Sould Heaven Records, serves up a tasty triple CD from one of the finest house duos, Masters At Work. Containing a individual mixes from Kenny Dope and Louie Vega and a third unmixed CD containing tracks that have inspired them over time. [more]

The thing with genres is that every few years the names switch, 'Rhythm n Blues' would be the obvious answer. No sooner are people getting used to the word 'electro' no longer implying Adidas and body popping, and then all of sudden being some sort of nu-breaks offshoot. [more]

The latest in Unisex's excellent soul series, The Best Of US Soul, is a small sample of nu soul artists all hailing from the heart of America, the same nation that gave birth to soul, funk and hip hop. [more]

It seems that every man and his dog will one day have the chance to guest mix on a Fabric Live album - especially if they (the Fabric peoples) maintain their current rate of hyper-mega-output. This time round tis the turn of Southampton's DJ Format to step up to the mixer... [more]

Miss Kittin shares her Perfect Night and Perfect Day on a double CD mix in the Bugged Out series. But does the album reach perfection? [more]

In the first of the series, this double-CD album attempts to capture the vibe of one of the world's most vibrant cities and bring it to life in vivid colour for those who yearn for the heady days as well as those who've never been. [more]

Late Night Tales albums are always great: they're a voyeuristic peek into the lifestyle of favourite bands in the wee hours of the morning, long after the lights have dimmed. The latest in this series, from Scottish lo-fi rockers Belle & Sebastian is no exception. [more]

Masterfully fused with a minimal touch which has its moments of funk and distortion. [more]

delightfully exquisite, down tempo and chilled, progressive and fresh, this is a gorgeous journey into psychedelia/some of the most driving and energized filled tracks as a depiction of the events that have occurred on the danced earth during the existence of the Earthcore event... [more]

San Francisco house label Om Records brings us this 13 track CD of some of the freshest house music to come out of the Miami Winter Music Conference. Mixed by DJ Fluid this CD is full of quality house in various guises. [more]

Reputable house label Hed Kandi has released it's new double CD of chunky house, entitled 'Twisted Disco'. In their words it is a 'Twisted journey into the darker side of house', in my words it's a whole lot of commercially successful electro house. [more]

This is the third in the ITM CD series; following two successful releases in 2005, and is by far the ballsiest. INTHEMIX IS SIX explores the breaks genre and is mixed courtesy of two of the biggest names on the scene, internationally and locally; Hyper and Bass Kleph. [more]

This is future orientated travelling music for a journey that starts out with playful exploration through airy intergalactic spaces and finishes up in the gloomy bowels of the underworld, not before a brief stopover charting the tumultuous terrain of mundane human drama in middle earth that is. [more]

This is another classic mixed up Kitty Yo compilation of spliced electronic orchestrations, promising the best of the German labels 12" releases and more. [more]

The National Gallery of Victoria put forth an interesting model when they chose to situate modern aural journeys in classic visual art, taking the 'Renaissance' club branding one step further. [more]

Leave Them All Behind is a two CD compilation bringing an eclectic offering of indie dance beats taken from some of the main players in the global 'new wave', electro guitar community. [more]

The Sequential double CD gives us another beautiful selection of the finest tracks, mixed by one of the finest talents on the planet. [more]

This is a level above the glut of decade-based compilations, due to the fact that most tracks are full length 12" mixes, rather than the poxy radio edits we are usually treated to. An oddly curated selection, but with enough excitement to make it a worthy purchase. [more]

Cover versions are sure to trigger an emotional response if the originals are loved by devoted fans. So what type of response will this collection of dance and electronica cover versions of Radiohead songs garner from a fan of the band? [more]

Deep house maestro Dave Lee has been chosen to release this latest instalment, doing so under his better known alias "Joey Negro". [more]

From the seriously cool (no pun intended), Swedish label Dealers Of Nordic Music, comes 'Blueprint #01'. It is a collection of current and future releases from the label, including those from old label hands Plej, Hird and Similou as well as some new introductions. [more]

UK funky house label Defected brings us a triple CD mix from the recent Miami Winter Music Conference, mixed by label head Simon Dunmore. This album has some amazing talent and no doubt holds some of this year's massive tracks-to-be. [more]

Not being purely an electronica cd, or purely a jazz cd, there is a vast space which is filled by the variety of producers and the differing expressions in their art. [more]

I really believe that there is an art in the selection of tracks, whether it be a mixed or unmixed cd.. In this occasion, we have something for the long drives (both morning and night), for home duties and for relaxation [more]

My mum reckons it sounds like Pink Floyd, I reckon it sounds like an awesome collection of sounds that people call music..... [more]

I can see the commercial viability of the CDs and appreciate that it will bring the music I love to a wider audience - which I can only see as being a good thing. The Balance series is one that I will pick up regardless of who's sporting their ugly mug on the cover. [more]

Immediately impressing you with its tactility, then rewarding you with its depth, Fabric 27 is nothing short of an exemplary mix CD. [more]

Freq Nasty provides breakspoll with an insightful journey on their second compilation CD. [more]

In the very late 70's a movement known as hip-hop was just starting to gather speed, one of the first labels to support this new sound was Celluloid Records and this is two discs of their finest works [more]

The eighth edition of DJ Masters Unmixed focuses on electro, house and breaks. [more]

The Renaissance brand name is synonymous with quality progressive house music and it has consistently promoted the best music the genre has to offer, often compiled and mixed by some of the best DJs on the planet. [more]

A geographically confused collection of hip hop. One of those compilations where you kinda have to wonder why those involved with its production really even bothered... Strange concept. Strange selections. Strange outcome. [more]

I have to admit the DJ Kicks series has provided several of my all-time favourite mix CD experiences. So I was excited to hear that in honour of its 25th release Berlin's !K7 label had rounded up 14 exclusive tracks from a range of past DJ Kickers as part of a Super-Duper Exclusives compilation.. [more]

There is a certain manner in that Luciano creates this mix which although not 'perfect' (ProTooled) as such is, but still a beautifully created piece which is gratifying to listen to... [more]

From the avant-garde to the traditional, to future jazz and beyond, here's to a genre of music that has clearly stood the test of time. [more]

The second installment of the Nukleuz Trance Sessions series finally hits our shores. [more]

The tenth release in a series of quality music from San Fran house label, Om Records, known for hosting such legendary artists as Mark Farina and Kaskade. The 'Lounge' series seems to just keep getting better with quality tracks from old hands, J Boogie's Dubtronic Science, to young producers Shazza [more]

Apparently the musical genre of 'Grime' is all the shit in the UK at the mo. Leastways according to the promo-material packaged with this particular release. "Fresh.." it cries. "Electrifying.." "The Most Exciting Musical Movement since Punk..." Sounds intriguing.. What the hell is it? [more]

Progressive trance ascended to new levels in 2005, and the latest in Armin van Buuren's acclaimed A State of Trance series makes for the perfect reflection of this: it features a whopping 82 tracks over two hours, with basically every big progressive trance tune from 2005 you could care to mention. [more]

West Australian drum and bass trio Pendulum have certainly been moving up in the world. Now they've dropped a new mix CD for Adam F's Breakbeat Kaos label entitled Jungle Sound Gold. [more]

All in all, a solid package for those who enjoy all styles of house - good for both pre and post club grooving. [more]

Over a friendship spanning fifteen years, the names Tom Middleton and Mark Pritchard have become synonymous with the quality and innovative music they've produced. [more]

Fuzzy Breaks Volume 2 follows on from the first in the series of 2002, which featured Sydneysider Q45 and UK perennial visitor Krafty Kuts. This time around on mixing duties are Krafty's Fingerlickin' label mates Drumattic Twins and Sydney DJ of the moment James Taylor. [more]

Ultimate Trance 3 delivers four smoking mixes from Above & Beyond, Christopher Lawrence and Alex Megane. [more]

The DNBBQ is one of Sydney's most-loved parties, with an intimate inner city venue, cheap beers, great friends, and of course wicked music. This 1st compilation put together by the Foreigdub crew and is designed to give an idea of how an afternoon/evening at the Abercrombie would run. [more]

While things have been comparatively quiet on the release front from the sprawling Clan Analogue collective over the past year, this latest compilation of Australian producers promises to re-assert the collective's presence on the local electronic music scene [more]

sixteen tracks in the compilation not offering nothing new or exciting to the listener, unfortunately it just remains in the massive pile of "average music" that is around at the moment... [more]

The crew over at Renegade Hardware show us where the roots lie in modern Drum 'n' Bass with their latest offering mixed by industry legend and long time contributor to the d'n'b scene Greg Packer. [more]

For years Munich has been a major hub for underground artists. Now the compilation Isar Gold celebrates the city with smorgasboard of excentric disco nuggets that are sure to set the dancefloors alight. [more]

This album would have made a nice backdrop to the post-event jaunt, which involved naught more that a few whiskeys on the porch as the sun struggled over the horizon. Chuck this on the stereo to recharge the memories of the event and tap into the vibe of summer as the warm weather fades into cold. [more]

Now what does one say about the contents of Buddha Bar records? They are undoubtedly a harbinger of mood - and a lazy one at that - which makes it particularly difficult to sift through in search of standout tracks. [more]

Rotterdam Hardcore is nasty stuff. Whether you define nasty as a good or bad thing will determine whether or not you like this album. Personally, I think we all need a good dose of nasty every now and then. Takers anyone? [more]

There have been many "Classic" albums from Frankie Knuckles. Not surprising when you take a look at the exhaustive amount of fine work he has produced over the years, so if house is what you are after, you have come to the right place. [more]

The Germans are killing it at the moment. They have some deep minimal stuff that's cracking, they have always been a force in trance, they Gomma Gang 3 AND they have the World Cup. Barstards. Where's the justice I ask? [more]

The first in the Two Tribes series to share it's cover with a new brand, this mix perfectly sums up the musical formula (or indeed lack thereof) that made the inaugural Future Music Festival a success. [more]

Swedish Brandy Recordings, a Stockholm based record label, present an eminently likeable collection of mostly downbeat sounds. [more]

Fort Knox Five are joined by Rex Riddem, Speedy Consuela, International Velvet, Liftoff and an array of guests to release a compilation that spans the spectrum from breaks and funk to latin and chillout. [more]

From the always stylish 'Dimitri From Paris' comes 'In the House of Love'. Exquisitely packaged in rich black and deep velvety red, this 3CD set is brimming with glorious, soulful and sexy house, from the classics, to the anthems, to the rare finds and the remakes. [more]

With the vitality of a young label, the mixing skills of Martinez, six unrelesed tracks, acid, tech, club bombs and Trentemoller you cant go wrong really [more]

Depicting the life of yet another fictional DJ trying to make it yet again in Ibiza, "Hey DJ" stars a host of the world's best DJs and has the perfect happy ending. Bursting with all the latest dance-floor hits, comes the movie soundtrack. [more]

The speed at which London superclub Fabric is churning these CDs out, you'd think they'd have to suffer in terms of quality. Not so. [more]

Strap on your seatbelt for this ride into the future of DnB courtesy of Renegade Hardware and Chase & Status. [more]

Snowboarding and breaks. An unlikely combination? Maybe not when you consider US half piper, Shaun White, was listening to this on his iPod rather than to the crowd cheering when he won gold in Torino. [more]

A proud member of the 'Swedish House Mafia' along with Axwell, Prydz and Ingrosso, electro-house don Steve Angello has teamed up with the Ministry of Sound to take the reigns on the latest installment of the Sessions series. [more]

Y4K represents the best and most diverse sounds in breakbeat, and is generally an album I would pick up regardless of who was in the mix. With one of my favourite artists sporting title position, it was an easy decision to pick up this latest installment. [more]

When I received this album I was genuinely intrigued. The album is called "Tribal Mix 4", yet it was described as house. [more]

A slow shift has been taking place over the past 10 years with GLO and other smaller imprints slowly challenging the status quo and trying to open up d&b to an audience not comfortable with the frantic sounds of darkstep or the raw edge of ragga. Enter Hospital and their band of merry producers... [more]

The documentary 'Maestro' tells the story behind the birth of house music and dance music culture. From the soundtrack comes some of the most influential music from that era. [more]

Mixed by Simon Dunmore and as the title suggests, 'Defected Most Rated 2005' features the highest rated tracks from the Defected catalogue, as voted by the music loving public. [more]

Steve Porter slams down his first major compilation, featuring 26 awesome tracks cleverly woven together on a single disk mix oozing with his signature genre defying sound. [more]

Blaze & Dr Phibes have outdone themselves with Airheads 2, bringing together crews from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra & Adelaide from Pioneers & Vets to Relative Newcomers & Fresh Meat. The selection is solid & the talent is top notch. Recommended for anyone losing faith in Aus Hip Hop. [more]

The third instalment of the Everydody series since its powerhouse debut in 2003, This is Everybody! On Tour sees resident DJ Sander Kleinenberg bring Lee Burridge on board to share the mixing duties. [more]

Perhaps best known as one half of Dynamo Productions with (ex-Portishead) member Andy Smith, Boca 45 is a fun-loving DJ with a bit of a sense of humour and a good taste in tunes overriding respect for convention and trends. [more]

Wax Wars is the first in a new series that sees DJs battle it out head-to-head for their respective record labels. First up we have Simon Dunmore (Defected), Brian Tappert (Soulfuric), Jamie Lewis (Purple Music). [more]

Cream's Rock the Discotheque is a glimmering showcase of the latest rocktronica sound that is taking dancefloors hostage around the world. Two discs full of dirty eighties hooks and sleazy electro synths, Discotheque is a real treasure among the other compilation fodder currently out there. [more]

Helmut Grier, AKA DJ Hell, the punk antichrist of the ego driven, and often over hyped world of the super star DJ returns with the 9th compilation on his very own Gigolo Records label [more]

2002 saw BBE & ?uestlove team up to present one hell of a funk & soul compilation Babies Making Babies, the compilation has returned in 2006 just in time for Valentines Day but with a more melancholic twist than the original. Misery Stikes Back ... No More Babies is exactly that. [more]

Shrouded by tragedy, but with the most soaring of voices and intensely expressive of spirits, few singer-songwriters have impacted on modern music quite like father and son Tim and Jeff Buckley. In tribute, 'Dream Brother' showcases some of the Buckleys' most reverential pieces. [more]

Spanning no less than three separate discs, Renaissance's new '3D' mix compilation series certainly represents one of the more ambitious undertakings the high-profile UK dance label has announced so far. Split into three complementary mixes, respectively titled 'Club', 'Studio' and 'Home' [more]

Often regarded as the Maccas of dance music, with generic and grossly overplayed radio tunes, this latest Ministry of Sound Clubbers Guide to 2006 double disk is a refreshing surprise. [more]

A brand new mix series sees the world's top lesser-known artists weave their magic while providing a real showcase of their ability. The Connected series is about allowing the mixer to do what they want. [more]

There's yet another stylish disco flavoured house label on the block and it goes by the name of Tokyo Project. Its supremely sexy and bright cover art teamed with the fourteen tracks of upbeat disco-house proves that Mark Doyle is indeed still on the money; perhaps even more so than ever. [more]

In the latest chapter in the Back To Mine series, we're taken to the home and through the epic record collection of The Prodigy's Liam Howlett for a trip through memory lane. Listening to some of his most mentionable influential moments in musical history. [more]

Presented in way that simply shouts "party", this is one of the most glorious and colourful compilations I have heard for some time. [more]

In an age where anyone can put Nas's Made You Look, M.O.P's Ante Up and maybe J-Live's Braggin Writes for a little credibility, on a burnt CD and call themselves a DJ, a solid mixtape is hard to find. That is unless you find Mexi's 2nd installment of the Ill Repute Loops series. [more]

You know, I always try to find some redeeming qualities of albums I review. As a fellow artist, I am always mindful of the heart-ripping feeling that comes with a poor review, and those attempts to remain casual while heartless throwaway comments send your life's work spiralling for the gutter. [more]

Ushering in Global Underground's third in the 'Electric Calm' series are 'Trafik', who between them, know too well that when it comes time for a little mellowing out, nothing beats a bevy of warm-blooded grooves, hypnotic subs and comedown textures. [more]

The first release on Benassi's new label, this mix is a grab bag of cutting edge tunes ranging from easy to love electro to relentless tech house. [more]

Compilations are always a bit of a lucky dip, especially when they're sampling a label you're not familiar with. 'Freshly Composted' features artists from the German label Compost, many of which are first time CD appearances. Unfortunately, that's exactly what it sounds like. [more]

The International Breakbeat Awards, known as Breakspoll, started life back in Feb 2001 with an online voting competition amongst a small group of breaks fans and producers. [more]

Being a long time admirer of Tayo's work, I came into this album with a certain level of expectation. Chances are, this album probably isn't as bad as the disappointment that comes from it. Sadly though there is little worse than being disappointed. [more]

When a CD compilation reaches Horror film status (i.e Anything greater than 7) surely they'd have gatherd up some loyal following eager to lap up a new serving of freshly cut tracks. [more]

So I whacked this one thinking it was a pleasant enough collection of tunes ranging from house to breaks - a whole bunch of nice tunes from recent times to yesteryear. It wasn't until I got around to watching the DVD (filmed from 2002 to 2005) that I realised exactly what it was... [more]

Marking a quarter century of ground-breaking audio, Carl Craig's take on Fabric 25 encompasses extreme musical and emotional diversity. Made up largely of accessible house/tech-house/deep house tracks, his mix may surprise those who view Carl Craig as a protector of the traditional Detroit sound. [more]

In a grueling sixty-eight minute onslaught Jay Cunning and Atomic Hooligan demonstrate superbly why breaks most definitely isn't dead. [more]

Since its initial foundation ten years ago by ex-4AD press officer Tony Morley, UK-based experimental / leftfield electronic music label Leaf has explored a self-professed 'suicidally eclectic' path that's also resulted in the unveiling of several major talents along the way [more]

This time Wild is in the form of a two disc compilation which features one mixed and one unmixed CD. Mostly featuring house tracks, you will find a little of every genre over 115 bpm. [more]

Jazzanova and Resoul present a selection of folk tunes mixing electric and acoustic on Secret Love 2 [more]

Adding more grit than Kaskade, stirring the tempo above Sneak's effort and providing a diverse feast of moods while always embody that famous Om vibe, Fred's mix demands attention. [more]

It's often hard to accurately describe the potential benefits and pitfalls of being a collector of the Wu-Tang Clan's ongoing diaspora of related off-shoots and solo offerings, to anyone who isn't already on a first name basis [more]

DJ Masters Unmixed pumps out #5 in the series. This compilation focuses on breaks, house and commercial beats. [more]

Hard Dance Republic Vol. 2 is an exciting collection of hard dance tunes from Ed Real, Paul Glazby and Nick Sentience. Grab this one to hear the unusual, but surprisingly enjoyable, melange of hard house and psy trance! [more]

It's an interesting age we live in when the back of an album comes with its own press release on the back, like a novel for your ears some may say, I say it's not a bad idea but one we could do without. Oh and this Life:Styles features an excellent selection of funk, soul and groove. [more]

Never ones to let us down, Azuli have once again come up with the goods and all in time for the party season...bring it on. [more]

Having just returned from a successful European tour, Bexta, Australia's undisputed queen of hard dance, has unveiled the latest volume of her highly successful Mixology series. Two discs of the cutting edge of hard dance music. [more]

Its cheeky, its sassy and a whole lot of fun. House Grooves Vol 2 from the Shapeshifters is a must have for summer. [more]

In what can only be described as a manic sensory onslaught, there really is no stopping High Contrast, as a DJ and producer this is the stuff you aspire to and as a listener it is everything you want and more. Absolute magic!!! [more]

A bonus DVD. A bubbling fusion of acid, electro, paranoid punk-funk, dark house, industrial, synth, minimal and crunchy bleep. Sound good so far? With tracks from '88 to the modern day, this is a rare treat from the overlord of cool! [more]

This one is another good compilation to summarize the year that passed. It is a 2 disc CD which samples some of radios most popular dance tracks for 2004 & 2005. [more]

You never really expect a lot when you take the wraps of dance music's equivalent of a Big Mac, but the quality of this year's Annual from the Ministry of Sound comes as a big surprise - delivering a tasty and enticing slab of some of the biggest electro-house tunes heard over the past 12 months. [more]

Andy Glittre once again brings together a diverse range of tracks from local and international artists. Somewhat bizarrely subtitled "More surf than turf", this album oozes sun and fun and all things summer. [more]

Unlike its predecessor which felt distinclty like a label sampler, this is a brave, eclectic mix which absolutely lives up to its tagline - "Replenishing Music for the Modern Soul". [more]

Inspired by his recent tour of Tokyo, Hatiras recaptures the excitement and energy of a live set on disc, making it an excellent selection for your stereo whether you're preparing to go out or wanting to have a big night in. [more]

Few producers can put such a personal and individual stamp on their sound. Presenting the second of Swank's 'Late Night' series, Philadelphia's 'King Britt' shows us why he is clearly the master of his domain. [more]

A whole lot of badass synthesiser fun, this probably won't remain on high rotation for long periods of time, but it will always find its way back into your party mix. [more]

A great idea for a compilation that unfortunately is on the whole uninteresting and poorly executed. [more]

This is the seventh in the world's finest nu-jazz compilation series, which has sold more than 650,000 copies worldwide. It has all the laid-back Gallic charm you might expect, swinging neatly between tunes suited to the smoky environs deep in the cellars of the album's namesake. [more]

Compiled by label owner, Jazz Caf� booker, artist, manager, DJ, famed record collector and all round music nut Adrian Gibson, this is one of the best funk compilations released in as long as I can remember. [more]

Normally a soundtrack to a video game promotes me to scream in a feminine manner and run the other way at pace, but 2K6 is a different beast altogether. [more]

Quite a personal look into the tracks, the styles and the sounds that have shaped Howells' career, this is definitely a proper album; one that you will be happy to groove about in from beginning to end. [more]

Australian radio darling, Pulse Radio, delivers this tasty two CD compilation. Mixed by Resident DJs Switch and McGuyver, it features tunes from Deepface, Pnau, Blueprint and Wicked Beat Sound System. [more]

I'm Staying Home is a brand new compilation from Sydney based dance label Creative Vibes. As is the case with most of the labels releases, I'm Staying Home is a fresh, funky [more]

Having extensively explored the rolling beauty that is drum and bass, Dread Recordings now has a new look and some new sounds, all of which have been neatly packed into its latest release 'Ray Keith presents Dub Dread'. [more]

In 2004 Sasha released Involver, an album where he wrote or re-mixed every single track on the album. This mixed album by Saeed Younan follows a similar path, with each track included having been touched by the hand of Saeed in some way, including two tracks he wrote himself. [more]

To be completely honest with you all, when I checked out the track listing to this CD my first thought was, "BORING! I've heard all these songs 1,000 times!" But never underestimate the power of a club anthem... [more]

The 'Strange Funky Games & Things' series claims to be a "fascinating musical biography of the evolution of R&B and rap" - and it is. This album, the fourth in the series, delves into the back catalogue of rare groove, soul, funk and disco to find the tunes that have influenced much of today's R&B. [more]

Now in their 24th instalment, the ongoing parallel Fabric and Fabriclive DJ mix series show no sign of slowing, with this latest volume of Fabriclive falling upon the capable shoulders of feted Philadelphia electro / hiphop producer Diplo [more]

When the Metalheadz label was forged back in 1994, three parties were largely responsible. Two of these were pioneering women of Drum n Bass, known as Kemistry and Storm. The other is the DnB icon the world knows as Goldie. Eleven years on and Metalheadz continues to push the envelope... [more]

Soma label bosses and Silicone Soul production team deliver a fine new selection from the dark and dubby realm [more]

Back when the furious hyped up breakbeat frenzy we all know and love was making its smooth transition from jungle to dnb, a West London label set up shop with the intention of making 'future beats for future people', and has, over the years, been home to some big names in the scene. [more]

A new breed of world class MC's have their own take on the classic line, they've upped the ante once again following up their highly successful In Case You Didn't Know with their soon to be highly successful Now You Know. [more]

There has been a gradual influx of house music releases and compilations by Australian DJ's and artists, so it makes perfect sense that Australia's much loved and well known house club One Love should release the third of their self titled mix CD's. [more]

After relocating to Berlin during 2001, DJ Naughty (real name Filippo Moscatello) soon completed and released his debut artist album 'Disco Volante' on DJ Hell's International Deejay Gigolos label [more]

With Roger Sanchez and Tom Stephan behind this big release; it was almost a guarantee that it would be packed full of heavy, deep, tribal driven house grooves. And after a single listen, it was evident that this was in fact clearly the case. [more]

This new mix from Glaswegians Slam, aka Stuart McMillan and Orde Meikle, finds a beautiful crossroads between slamming techno and that "oh so ultra cool" European electro-house sound. [more]

Archie, Amber Savage and Baby Gee fire up the decks to deliver Central Energy: The Nxt Generation, a scorching compilation featuring many hard dance favourites from 2005. [more]

Mauro Picotto continues Meganite's success with this, the 2nd compilation in the series. Plenty of tech goodness to go round! [more]

Soulful house from San Fran's Groove Junkies. [more]

Approach with an open mind is my advice when listening to the Future Sound of Hip Hop compiled by electronic French label Wagram. Self professed to 'introduce the new, eclectic and alternative hip hop scene that blends rap & electronic music' it does just that. Not something for the elitists. [more]

Hip Hop THE CHILLOUT COLLECTION, I should have seen the 124km tall warning signs. Had Universal Music, hereon in referred to as the 'idiots', titled this release 'So Fresh Urban' or 'This is Not Hip Hop Vol 26' I would have had a giggle and moved on. But they didn't and that's why they're 'idiots'. [more]

Now entering its tenth year of operation, Vienna's celebrated Dub Club has certainly become one of the most high-profile European epicentres for reggae, dancehall and futuristic digi-dub, held together by founding selectors Sugar B, Gu-Mix and Sweet Susi [more]

Germany's Kompakt label celebrates seven years with Total 6 compilation. [more]

There comes a time when you can't help but ask: do we really need another CD of "chill out summer grooves?" [more]

His style is more than often described as Harder than your husband NRG, with this cd showcasing the fine talent that is DJ Nexus- as he mixes up those classic tracks in all his glory. [more]

Launched in 2000 the DMAs were originally created to applaud artists, Djs and everyone who has contributed to the Australian dance music scene. [more]

The ethos of the longstanding Signal 2 Noise weekly night has always featured variations of the broken beat sound as well as more experimental forms of electronica. [more]

Househeads need only apply: this one's definitely for the diehards. DJ Sneak shares his house sound with the likes of Eric Morillo and Roger Sanchez, so be warned - you'll either find this very true to the roots of house or incredibly dull. [more]

Unless you've been living under a rock recently, you would have heard that for the first time ever inthemix.com.au is releasing an annual mix CD. Featuring local Sydney DJ Ajax and Canadian DJ, producer and remixer Tiga, it has finally arrived in my CD player... [more]

When most people think funk, Europe, let alone Germany usually isn't the first place that springs to mind. Fortunately for me, a compilation from a little known German based label "Melting Pot Records" has recently come to my attention, subsequently unveiling a new continent of fresh and funky sound [more]

Now into their tenth year, the Gatecrasher phenomenon lives on with their latest; a culmination of all the anthems, the hits and the classics of trance [more]

Adam White mixes up some slick and sweet uplifting trance for those of you who like it driving, captivating and euphoric. [more]

There is nothing sweeter than an awe-inspiring record collection. Entitled 'Dig', this series aims to raid the mind-blowing collections of many an artist for our listening pleasure. First up, 'Giles Peterson'. [more]

A disc that delivers what it promises is quite rare these days, so hats off to the people at Creative Vibes for this laid-back little gem. [more]

If you're planning on attending at least one pool party this summer - and by the looks of the weather today I'd say there's a good chance of that - make sure you pick up a copy of this disc on the way. [more]

In 1998, Andy Smith chose to share pieces from his collection through a series known as 'The Document'. Mixing everything from Metal to Northern Soul into one amazing aural experience, the series has proved so popular that it is now up to its third instalment. [more]

They're calling themselves "the finest nu-jazz compilation," and let me tell you - they're not far off. [more]

This is a truly awesome and cutting-edge progressive house mix, so put aside any expectations you may have based on Owner of a Lonely Heart. [more]

This release stems from the Audio Therapy label and as indicated by the nice art graphic on the front of the cd which features label leader and respected progressive DJ: Dave Seaman. The release comes in a two disc format; the first is a mix compilation while the second presents some of the tracks f [more]

'Luftkastellet 3' is the place where spring-loaded pop, twisted carnivale and comedown poetry come together to play, its infectious and inescapably good and comes highly recommended. [more]

With so many great cds to review every week, it's inevitable that occasionally I come across something of great quality and vibe, but just doesn't manage to hit the spot for me. [more]

After countless editions to the In The House series from star DJs and producers alike, the updated 'Defected' volume remains true to it's predecessor. From the mind of Defected boss Simon Dunmore the release dives into two sides of Ibiza clubbing. [more]

At the tail end of 2005, Paul van Dyk's follow up to his brilliant Politics of Dancing CD finally sees the light of day. The result - a smooth, rollicking and seamless musical journey like no other, with PVD delivering hands down the best trance compilation of the year. [more]

Mad Mats gives listeners an insider's perspective on the fertile electronic music scene in Scandinavia. [more]

Sonar Kollektiv, the label brought to you by Berlin group Jazzanova has released another compilation, titled 4, featuring artists such as Dimlite, Sygaire and New Zealands Fat Freddy's Drop for a wonderfully eclectic mix of great tunes. [more]

I first chucked this album on when I was in the mood for a bit of housework, as there's nothing like a bit of bad-ass-drum-and-bass to perk up the mood when the floor needs mopping. [more]

Meet Andy Whitby, the new golden boy of hard house. Here he dishes up the fifth volume of the Frantic Residents series. [more]

Copyright serve up Defected's latest compilation offering. If classy House floats your boat, check this one out! [more]

Another resource for the CD DJ is the DJ Masters Unmixed series from Central Station. They've just released #6.... [more]

Get some hardstyle into you with Blutonium's latest CD compilation. The 4th in the series, expect tough and tweaky tunes from the likes of Zany, Thomas Trouble and DJ Virus. [more]

Danny Rampling farewells the dance industry with the epic three CD compilation Break For Love. [more]

Put simply, there was such a mass of talent around Detroit during the Motown age that some pretty arse-kicking music never really broke up from what we'd call the underground. [more]

Hemmesphere celebrates the summer by including a second disc mixed by Andy Caldwell, in addition to a quality unmixed selection of soulful sounds. [more]

This is sorta trash. Kitch-trash to be sure, but you have to assume K7 know what they are doing. The DJ Kicks series has established itself as a stalwart in mix cds, long before Fabric took the crown for variety and quality. [more]

The focus of Fleming's Whitelabel series falls squarely on giving exposure to underground acts, and the latest instalment is again compiled almost exclusively of unreleased material from around the globe, also showcasing his new psytrance direction. [more]

Two months ago, the name Nic Fanciulli was completely unknown to me, and then all of a sudden I heard it three times in three weeks. [more]

The CD many of us have been sweating on in '05 has finally arrived! Must take a deep breath, got to make sure I don't set unrealistic expectations. [more]

Prince Paul is a legend, and I didn't need these 20 tracks to prove it. Reinvented again and again, this is merely a snapshot of one of the most accomplished producers the world of urban music will ever know. [more]

For those of you still untouched by Ewan Pearson's masterful DJ/producer magicianary, let me present to you, his long awaited first-ever mix record. With Sci.Fi.Hi.Fi he's utilised the rather hotly debated Ableton Live technology to bring you a fresh and unique Pearson mix. [more]

Since its founding beginnings a few years back, Dublex Inc's Stuttgart-based broken-beat house / nujazz label Pulver Records has developed an enviable reputation amongst those European scenes, with the increasing profile of its flagship founders growing steadily [more]

Saddle up for some gorgeous house with Cr2 Records' United Nations of House - the first in a promising series of compilations. [more]

UK hip hop is officially on Prozac. After Skinnyman's Council Estate of Mind, Yungun's The Essance & Skitz's unbelievable new shit, Homegrown II, lazy hip hoppers have undoubtedly been denied the age old argument that UK hip hop can only be down tempo, gritty & depressing. [more]

Whilst this sounds better than a trip to Disney Land, in short, it sucks. I found it insufferable at times and down right unfulfilling at others. That said, if you love your green sticky icky icky like Snoop, chances are you'll be singing ooh wee all the way to your bong. [more]

Firing with a loud bang, this iconic gang of Sydney DJs provide a feast of tech, electro and mashed up madness that explores not only commercial territory, but takes a stroll to the unheard dark side. [more]

French label Wagram introduces a selection of acoustic Brasilian tunes, with music ranging from 1975 through to 2005. [more]

The Transmission juggernaut steams ahead with the release of Trance Anthems Volume 6, mixed by Transmission head-honcho Nervous and trance luminaries Alphazone. [more]

I love British hip-hop, their funny accents and cockney slang make me laugh. Enough of teasing though, the old country surely does have some of the best hip-hop in the world, and here arguably the best British label - Low Life - celebrates their 40th release in the best possible way. [more]

Chillout or not, this is initially a surprisingly gentle little addition to the iconic Ministry of Sound series. Vocally driven and often sparing in its approach, disk one dispenses with an entirely electronic landscape in favour of plinky guitars and laid back grooves. [more]

Sexy, smooth and very - well - Cuban, this little number is perfect for those nights when you want to get smoochy. Bring out the Bacardi and swing your way into the night... [more]

This is a great taste of deep, vocally-luscious house at its sublime best. Upbeat and soul-stirring but never cheesy, it will be a treat for Caldwell fans new and old. [more]

H�tel Costes 8 is a rare specimen: a disc that blends chillout and house without becoming numb, dull or superficial. [more]

The Freedom Festival's inaugural album highlights this year's "Stop Violence Against Women" campaign with a focus on strong vocals by strong women, headlined by Ursula Rucker. [more]

Celebrating 10 years of gloriously good sounds comes 'A Decade of Future Music'; a beautifully presented 3CD compilation that showcases the very best in house and downtempo grooves from independent San Fran label, 'Om Records'. [more]

The compilation 'London Soul: Soulful Rhyme from the Capital City' released by Unisex Records is a fine and funky selection of smooth neo soul that proves that in this rainy town lies a barrage of soul and funk artists. [more]

When the original 'Wipeout' video game emerged for the first Playstation console back in 1995, it stood out distinctly from the mountains of other racing games available for that system in that it featured a musical soundtrack consisting of tracks from a virtual 'who's who' of 'credible' dance [more]

Mark Rae's seminal label Grand Central has long maintained a reputation for excellence in UK hip hop. Underground Crown Holders is a collection of some of the latest tunes to be released from the Grand Central stable. [more]

When an album like this hits the streets at this time of year it seems almost impossible to believe that we have recently suffered through months of winter. Driving around town for the past few weeks with this album on high rotation, my head's been full of funk'n sunshine, baby! [more]

So you wanna dance? Well get your shoes on, grab a cocktail and get into the groove with one of America's revered masters of deep house, Miguel Migs, cause he's back with a tidy little 16-track mix on Stomp Records that will soothe the soul. [more]

The first release in the new series of Sessions mix albums from Ministry, Nastydirtysexmusic sees Smokin Jo and Tim Sheridan bring their brand of filthy house to audiences worldwide. [more]

Housexy is a new funky house music mix series, and whilst the first release in the series does deliver smooth mixing and a good quality track selection (albeit with the expected commercial bias), there's nothing musically that makes it stand out from the pack of similar funky house releases. [more]

Tim 'Love' Lee's Tummy Touch records release an abstract collection of sounds in Rude Girl. This 'collection of music for drunks' includes tex-mex, surf rock and electronic jazz poetry that would get Jack Kerouac plastered. [more]

A new compilation from Germany's uber cool Playhouse label. [more]

UK festival giant Creamfields allows Ferry Corsten to man their 2005 CD release. Be prepared for a mashup of trance and electro-house! [more]

I was very keen to get my little paws on the latest compilation release from acclaimed label Renaissance. I discovered the label relatively late ('03) and was blown away by their releases including Sander Klienenberg's Everybody and Hernan Catteano's Masters Series. [more]

A final offering and retrospective of the seminal Classic Recording Company [more]

Pacha, home of the fabulous and famous, releases its much anticpated second compilation CD. Mixed by resident DJ Wally Lopez, it is testimony to the sounds of Pacha. [more]

The CD soundtrack to It's All Gone Pete Tong is a gorgeous blend of warm ambient sounds and fun-filled party sounds. Tunes come from the likes of Graham Massey, Ferry Corsten, Reflekt and Deep Dish. [more]

F Communications' long-running 'Megasoft Office' compilation series has become one of the label's more intriguing offerings in recent years, with each new annual installment offering curious listeners a chance to check out the sorts of sounds from the label currently on rotation in the F-Comm HQ [more]

Compost's latest compilation is Soulsearching, a showcase of the label's radio show of the same name. [more]

Andy Van mixes the 2nd Vicious Cuts CD blending tunes from Silosonic, mrTIMOTHY and Dirty South. [more]

Central Station Records have put together a somewhat patchy package for aspiring (and undiscerning) CD-DJs in the form of this three disc unmixed compilation. [more]

The latest compilation from Bargrooves: it's stylish, it's slick, it's sexy. [more]

So is this just another house/electro CD, or is it something more? In my opinion, it's definitely got something more, only I just can't my finger on what it is. [more]

This latest third volume in Japanese label Nuro's ongoing 'Nu (new) Style' compilation series sees Mukatsuku / Exceptional's Nik Weston taking the reins for an unmixed collection that veers from broken beats right through to downtempo nu-soul, hiphop and house [more]

Chris Liebing's latest offering from his own label CLR is everything you'd expect from the man, plus a bit more; with slamming loop-centric techno selections combined with some clever effects usage. [more]

Now in its sixth consecutive year of existence, since its inauguration in 2000 Liquid Architecture has become one of Australia's most high-profile annual festivals dedicated to "exploring the interdisciplinary nature of sound-arts practices which touch moving image, contemporary/experimental music [more]

Cosmic Gate deliver another satisfying excursion through different sides of trance. Deviating slightly from their hard trance roots, these two mixes show an evolution of sound for the German trance duo. [more]

He's the golden boy of Australian dance music - #1 DJ three years in a row, as voted by you, dear readers, in the Technics inthemix50 - whose energetic mixing of break-tastic tunes are always guaranteed to fill dance floors from Perth to Parramatta. [more]

A double collection of beats from Digweed's Bedrock label. [more]

Meaning "Power to the people", 'Amandla' was a term that represented the power to communicate, motivate, console, unite and, ultimately beget change in the African fight for independence. Representing these values via contemporary sounds comes the beautiful 'Amandla'. [more]

UK's Jockey Slut Magazine may have declared him the "Hottest DJ on the Planet", but generally Ivan Smagghe doesn't like to be labelled. [more]

If dirty, cheeky funk is your thang, then you are in for quite a treat, for the crews over at 'Fort Knox Five' and 'Jalapeno Recordings' have joined forces to release 'The Raid' - a deliciously carnal romp into their funk laden vaults. [more]

Pounding German club tracks and a 52-page booklet on Berlin's hottest nightspots: what more could you possibly ask for? [more]

This has grown on me an awful lot, and it really does show a label with a definable goal (promoting 'intelligent', soul-driven hip hop), and a label I'd be more than happy to see flooding the market with releases in the near future. [more]

Over at BBE headquarters they can hear us moaning about the latest pollutants to come out over the airwaves, so with a little help from New York's 'DJ Language' they took it upon themselves to do something about it. Introducing the very stylish, 'Real Music for Real People'. [more]

Recently handed the 'Ninja Tune' back catalogue, Kentaro whips up his second mix album, an incredible sonic adventure titled 'DJ Kentaro On The Wheels of Solid Steel'. [more]

After three years of the ever successful Technics ITM50 DJ Poll, it's time for another first - an ITM mix CD. Sydney's Illya and Melbourne's Boogs offer their respective blends of jackin' house and dirty electro to create the must have party album. [more]

The poster child for the Nintendo generation of DJs follows up 2004's acclaimed Alive to once again provide a little insight into what music and toys have been keeping him busy. [more]

The events that lead to the creation of this rather nifty combined CD / DVD extravanganza from Ninja Tune originally began in the late nineties when Irish-born photographer, film-maker and writer Brian Cross (aka 'B+') moved to LA in order to feed his passion for hiphop [more]

With a long running residency at the London superclub it only seems appropriate their blend of hip hop, drum'n'bass and whatever else be captured on this compilation series. [more]

Yet another high quality release from the joint forces of Fine Records and Creative Vibes this year. This is the second comp in the colourful Misch Masch collection. This time it's Freeform Five's turn to man the controls. [more]

So like most of us sad souls you couldn't jet on over to the non-stop party of Creamfields this year? Well those generous people responsible for staging the festival have done us a huge favour and put together a delicious, back-breaking electro house feast. [more]

In writing this review, I must confess that I'm an avid Fingerlickin' fan. With enough funk to make James Brown proud, their artists often achieve that rare balance between street cred, whilst still being very accessible. So it was with great anticipation that I reviewed We Love It. [more]

Quiet hot for a minute, Nuff Said Records remains one of Oz hip-hop's best and most respected labels. With this latest compilation mixing established stars and up and comers Nuff Said has announced there return to the forefront of the scene. [more]

One of the world's most respected labels, Motown commands instant respect from anyone with a passing interest in music. What better way to introduce the sounds to today's marketplace than enlisting some of today's biggest names to give the beats a tweak. [more]

Together with Los Angeles humanitarian organization 'NextAid', Om Records has released 'reBOOT, Noted for the Next Generation', an album dedicated to helping those affected by AIDS in Africa. [more]

Italian label Mantra Breaks bring the well-rounded CD compilation Ultimate Mantra Breaks. [more]

Soul Heaven Presents Blaze is a 3-disc compilation that proves that there's more to be done with a 4/4 beat than once thought. [more]

Following in the fine French house tradition of Dimitri From Paris and company, Bob Sinclar heads up Defected's latest release. [more]

The rise of hard trance continues, with Perth's favourite club releasing its first national mix album. Two discs of pure hard trance pleasure. [more]

Back to Love, Hed Kandi's latest release follows on with a mood no different to prior releases, at the event horizon of jazz and house. [more]

This release marks the third installment in the 'Original Selection' series which showcases the very best of classic house music on the first disc and the spiritual, soulful sounds of house on the second disc. [more]

Ibiza's finest pre-party bar, 'Cafe Mambo' is currently celebrating ten years of glorious sunsets and sweet-tempered sounds. To make sure those far away don't miss out on the merrymaking comes this enticing collection of all night grooves. [more]

There is a lot on offer here; the classy, the trashy, the remakes, the classics, the maestros and the newcomers. Its a fantastic ride. [more]

For those after basslines that make you go mmm, 'Underwater Episode04' is everything you want from the best ever night out and more. [more]

On the menu today is superb electronica of all sorts. Expect demented jazz, twisted trip hop, washy melodic layers, shrilling brass and some downright weirdness. [more]

Once in a while, some truly special compilations are put together. Ones that call in the some of the hottest stars driving today's sound, to add their special touch to classics penned by heroes of another time. The Free Design: Redesigned is really no exception to the rule. [more]

With so many killer albums that taunt us to 'turn it up to eleven' being released this year, Central Station Records sure had us in mind when they licensed this nifty little compilation from Mumbo Jumbo. [more]

As much a history lesson as it is a collection of must haves, BBE's 'Kings Of House' is where you will find many a blueprint for the sound we call house. [more]

Mixed and compiled by 'Future Classic' front man Nathan McLay, 'Future Classic Attractions' features a series of tracks from Australia's latest and greatest producers. [more]

With an overflowing basket of albums, singles and remixes in their possession, 'Later' is a sleepy blend of space disco compiled and mixed by the boys. [more]

Whenever people list their top five all-time-favourite Progressive mixes, you can be sure that a Global Underground release will be mentioned. Releases by Dave Seaman, Sasha, John Digweed and Nick Warren in the late 90's contain music that still thrills me each and every time I listen to them. [more]

It's evil and dark and everything that I expect Metalheadz fans would absolutely love. Not that the menacing and mysterious Clifford Price would have it any other way, right? [more]

A mix of seventeen house tracks released during the first one and a half years of Ricanstruction Label, a NY record label, mixed by head honcho Frankie Feliciano. [more]

Now approaching its twelfth issue, over the last few years Sydney-based electronic music / arts / culture quarterly Cyclic Defrost has become one of the most reputable and substantial Australian magazines to look for at a time when it seems the availability of quality printed music media is waning [more]

The second instalment House Of Om series sees Kaskade explore a diverse range of deep, soulful, dubbed and funky house, always played with that San Fran feel and infectious Kaskade vibe. [more]

Trance Republic is a smooth compilation from Agnelli & Nelson, Darren Tate and John Askew. [more]

I wasn't going to review a drum n bass cd for a while... there's only so much you can say about a mixtape, and I'd been to a silly amount of gigs lately. There are plenty of genres of music out there after all, then I saw the words 'Renegade Hardware' and pounced. [more]

Peaktime Volume 6 is the latest release in the series. Previous DJs have included Australia's Mark Dynamix, trance duo Blank & Jones, and DJ ATB. This time we have BK and Vinylgroover behind the helm. [more]

After five years Bubble nightclub is something of a Melbourne clubbing institution. Bubble Vol 1 - We Love To Party is a CD that encapsulates the atmosphere of the club, and lets you take the party home. [more]

The Dugout is Brighton's only hip hop radio show and showcases some of the best local talent that Tru Thoughts and Zebra Traffic develop and promote. The resulting compilation is a very close representation of the state-of-play of UK hip hop. [more]

UK Hustlerz is a well known series of compilations selected by Disorda. Back when the UK scene was firmly buried underground they were seen as 'the' place to find emerging talent. Some ten years on from his beginning Disorda is back and the results are hot. [more]

The promotional cover of the CD says that this un-mixed collection of tracks, chosen by Dave Seaman, is designed to highlight the work of producers from a single country or region - in this instance Greece. [more]

Ivan Smagghe, half of Parisian duo Black Strobe delivers installment 23 of Fabric's compilation series. [more]

Matt Darey, Future Breeze and Three Drives mix four CDs of new and classic uplifting trance tracks. [more]

The 4th instalment of the Release Yourself series see's Roger Sanchez brings us some of the most upfront house tunes currently availably plus unreleased and exclusive tracks from Sanchez own collection. [more]

Blutonium Records releases it's first Best Of Hardstyle compilation mixed by head honcho Blutonium Boy. [more]

A tasty little CD coming out of Canada, Minimize to Maximize is a techno compilation that will have fans of the minimal sound quite impressed. There's no room for superfluity here; these tracks are definitely on the 'minimize' side of things from the word go. [more]

Featuring classic and rare cuts from divas and legends, 'The Original Soul Selection' covers over 20 years of history, from its very beginnings on Atlantic Records in the 1950s through to its impact on New York's burgeoning nightclub scene in the 1970s. [more]

Typically the bands from the new wave era were self conscious and arty, or as the Dead Kennedys so aptly put it. "We're not a punk rock band, were a new wave band which means we're shit. ha ha ha!" Covering the era that was post punk comes a jam packed double cd of original 45s titled 'New Waves'. [more]

London's longest running house music label, Azuli, have teamed with Club Space in Ibiza to produce a black sheep in house music compilations. The compilation features all the future hits of the coming Ibiza season. [more]

For Sasha, it has always been about exploring technology, pushing the limits of sound and creating the most satisfying listen possible. Give yourself time to indulge in Fundacion NYC, headphones recommended, it really is an exceptional listen. [more]

The unsubstantiated love child of John Digweed delivers a flawless concoction of distorted hi-hats, epic melodies, rich percussion, dredging basslines and beautiful layers all mixed with that Luke Fair Canadian flair that he is famous. [more]

Damian Lazarus offers up a refreshingly quirky mix for the second release in Bugged Out's Suck My Deck series. [more]

Legwarmers, crack cocaine and smurfs aside, the eighties were without question the acest of all decades. In celebration of the almighty 80's 12" comes the second release in the hugely popular '12" 80's' series. [more]

Debut compilation for Melbourne label Equatorial Records [more]

In preparation for this years up coming season comes the second in Renaissance's 'Ibiza Pacha' series. At the helm are house legend David Morales, Trevor 'Soul Nation' Nelson, and daughter to Sir Mick, Jade Jagger. [more]

Ti�sto returns with a new In Search Of Sunrise mix, which while maintaining the softer style that traditionally characterised this series, incorporates large quantities of progressive and progressive trance. And by the time we get to the end of CD 2, it is exhilarating! [more]

BBE's 'The Kings of...' series returns with a foray into the world of hip hop. The compilation features DJ Premier on the funk'n'soul tip and Mr Thing selecting upbeat party classics. [more]

Ministry of Sound have decided to release a compilation for those of you who like to spend endless nights cruising up and down the same damn streets of the city, bouncing along in your hotted-up cars, blaring out whatever Nova or 2Dayfm have predicted as the new gangsta cool. [more]

This mix represented my first exposure to Gavin Keitel's music and although the "Balance" series is well known for its quality progressive mixes, an offshoot series usually means a different musical direction. [more]

This is, without doubt, an incredibly cool compilation. From the old-school French chic of Serge Gainsbourg to the brand-new, dubbed-out sounds of Gotan Project and NoJazz, this is one worth picking up as soon as possible. [more]

The third and most diverse in the highly successful remixed series. Adam Freeland, Carl Craig, Max Sedgley and more remix the likes of Nina Simone, Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughn. [more]

After launching a successful night of the same name, in London some 13 years ago, DTPM has now grown into one of the world's most renowned club brands as it's residents and their devoted following of around 2,000 people (per night) haunt London's Fabric nightclub every Sunday night. [more]

A great compilation to accessorise what seems to have been a very successful 10th MAFW. Like Tsubi it's electro, like Alex Perry it's smooth flowing and classy, like the Zimmerman swimwear collection it's different (but oh so sexy). [more]

One of the LA underground's most famous collectives celebrates their tenth anniversary, and what better way to do it than by all joining forces for 21 tracks showing exactly what you stand for?! [more]

Clear the roads, evacuate the cities and batten down the hatches: the latest mix album from the Plump DJs is about to hit the streets. [more]

With Yoshi's half of this double CD starting off with "Lola's Theme" and Eric Pryz's "Call on Me" (my most hated track of 2004!), you'd be forgiven for thinking Yoshi's given up on hard dance and gone all commercial, like. [more]

As the title suggests, the 7th instalment of this Schema release - coming to us all the way from Milano, Italy - boasts a balanced mix of breaks and bossa beats. The result is a sound reminiscent of funk, jazz and soul, providing for some easy listening and very groovable tunes. [more]

This new double pack features Family Duals, a 12 track mix up from the UK deep house masters Inland Knights, plus 10 of their own selected productions and remixes on the second CD. [more]

This week we take a stroll through hard dance with two of the UK's biggest names, Ed Real and Rob Tissera, along with newcomer Amber D, as they pound out a 3CD compilation set to make your ears bleed for more. [more]

Japan's Satoshi Tomiee produces an amazing compilation after three busy years running his label Saw Recordings. This quality mix is a slamming array of progressive and tech house that will no doubt put a smile on your face. [more]

Mr S and MPK bring you Winter Enchanted: Live The Adventure. [more]

For those of you who like it upbeat, bouncy and lolli-popped! [more]

With intelligent track selection, this release avoids the usual clich�s of trance to produce a well rounded and fulfilling trance trip. [more]

Ian Pooley has always been admired for the broad spectrum he can cover in any set or album, Pooley has had a long time affection for the Latin music scene. Coming in two parts 'Brazilution' is as feisty as it is utterly sublime. [more]

Body Language, the first in a series of compilations for the new German label Physical Music. [more]

Served up here are sounds that focus on the bassline, they go deep, come whipsmart quick and combine with juicy squelches, riotous percussion, and tight vocal harmonies. There's a definite party vibe, one that will have you moving hungrily to the floor to become a part of the velocity and thrust. [more]

As a distributor Creative Vibes gets there hands on some of the finest down tempo releases around, maybe I avoid the crap who knows, what I do know is Shapes Red offers a wicked selection of all that is funky. [more]

Hospital Records is doing things in drum n bass, and they know it. As if to prove it, they've put out this nice little package which includes not only a great mix of current hospitalised bangers, but a second disc of said bangers in unmixed start-to-finish glory, plus an awesome DVD. [more]

You guessed it - this is tasty! Mint 5 is another chompilation chockablock with big choons from 04/05. Universal has employed the likes of Mousse T, Freestylers, Bob Sinclar, mrTimothy, Junior Jack, Kylie, Stonebridge, Gus Gus, Eric Prydz, Inaya Day and many more big names. [more]

Presented as a retrospective of their remix work over the last four years, 'Rebounces' is aimed directly at your waist and down in the spiciest of ways. [more]

If you're a fan of quality electronica, then the latest Innercity Beats offering is most definitely worth checking out. It boats a solid track listing consisting of the most talented up n coming local artists and producers this fine country has to offer. [more]

'Jugglin' with Raw Fusion' sees Creative Vibes' Huwston and Peter Pasqual collaborating with Jugglin' / Raw Fusion's Mad Mats and Patrick Larssen to gather together an unmixed collection that cherry picks some of the labels' highlight moments [more]

After falling in love at first listen to Dave Clarke's original World Service compilation, I was curious as to how his new compilation measured up. [more]

I remember back when I was in year 8 how "cool" it was to listen to Wild FM compilations. It was like having the best yoyo in year 6, or the biggest "steely marble" in year 2. [more]

American East Coast DJ Micro delivers a CD of mellow trance splattered with some tech trance goodness. [more]

Robbie Rivera is what you'd call a bit of a house legend. Known for some pretty cool productions and remixes including Feel This, Girlfriend and Vertigo, he has now hit the record box again and released this, the latest instalment in the Tribal Mix series. [more]

24 tracks and 70 minutes later you are left exhausted though fulfilled. I do stop to think though, why is Craze so intent on moving from the turntablism and hip hop he grew up with [and what made him famous] to drum and bass later in the piece? [more]

Overall, the Grooverider mix is not for the faint of heart while the Loxy and Ink mix is titled Retrospective and hence seems to be a little less futuristic. [more]

A globe trotter spreading his sound worldwide, J Majik also finds time to be label boss of Infrared Records. Therefore, he is in a good position to choose carefully from the material that is available in his catalog and the whites that cross his desk. [more]

Tom Middleton's obsession with offbeat covers shone through in his excellent 2004 mix album The Trip. As an extension to this, Middleton has reportedly been sifting through web pages, forums, and chat rooms in order to source the best and worst cover versions released. [more]

Eclectic. Soulful. Easy. These words seem to float into the mind after a listen of Defected's latest "In the House" offering mixed by house legend Danny Krivit. [more]

If you are looking for an introduction to the music of other cultures, but do not want to let go of the known completely, then this album is a worthy introduction. A smooth blend of Eastern, African and Western electronic elements that does not over-rely on Western modalities. [more]

'Electric Chair' operators Luke Cowdrey and Justin Crawford, aka 'The Unabombers' have been pushing our buttons for a whoppingly good decade now. As they gear up for another funk-fuelled summer, so too can you with the follow up to 'Electric Soul 2', 'Electric Soul, Summer Sunset'. [more]

If you want to shift a few copies of a drum n bass mix CD, roping DJ Marky in is certainly not a bad idea. Not only is he quite obviously known for killer club sets, his mix albums in the past, such as Movement 2, were as dope as Schapelle Corby's boogie board bag. [more]

Australia's first lady of house delivers the first release from her newly formed label, Mat Recordings. A sexy, intelligent collection of house, from classic vocal numbers to techy stormers. [more]

Coming from various periods throughout the 21st century and laden with heavy beats, deep grooves, slick rhymes and expert turntablism, this is street-level funk at its soul-jacking best. [more]

Unearthing rare groove funk gems on a new compilation, 'Cold Heat' is a time capsule that was buried when the musical form known as the 'funk' was emerging from infancy into a movement that would eventually change the American musical landscape. [more]

Vinyl Pusher Records first release - Addictions - is a quality house compilation from Andrew Padula and Alex Taylor. [more]

Curveball DJ Erol Alkan presents electroclash at its most bizarre. This one has to be heard to be believed! [more]

Public Domain Vs Warp Brothers is the latest release from Central Energy. If you like high nrg tunes, these guys have got the goods. [more]

Straight from Wagram Music, France comes this very tasty little compilation 'International Music News'. Featuring 18 tracks, this mix is primarily hip-hop and funk in flavour, with a little trance, electro and alternative rock thrown in for good measure. [more]

The latest release from the Transmission stable. Steve Hill mixes up a melodic nu-tribute to the timeless while Yoji cranks out a showcase of the current crop of harder edged tunes. [more]

International DJ Gigolo 8 selected by DJ Hell [more]

The Fabric series have always been about progression and intrigue and this release fits the bill amicably. There is definitely a sense of growing older in this one and I feel that it is aimed at the same people who enjoyed listening to the dirty tough sounds of Adam Beyer not all that long ago. [more]

Bass-heavy anthems to rock your block or wishy-washy batty breaks? The inaugural release from fledgling label Passenger is in the eye of the beholder. [more]

The progressive trance genre was showcased by the world's biggest progressive DJs right through the mid to late 90s. From Northern Exposure in 1996 right through to Max Graham's Transport 4 in 2000, after that the progressive trance genre disappeared. [more]

Parklane Recordings presents another chill-out, lounge, lifestyle compilation for the ever growing global bar and caf� culture society. [more]

Compiled, produced and blended together by Groovescooter Records heads Paris Pompor and Georgie Zuzak, this second instalment in their ongoing 'Music For Film' compilation series (following the release of the first volume through Silent Recordings) [more]

Accompanying the action from 'The Edukators' is a soundtrack ram-jam with hard hitting destroyers, electro-pop gems and easy-listening acoustic classics. [more]

Four years ago house maestro 'Bob Sinclair' shared his long time passion for African music with what is now the highly acclaimed 'Africanism' series. Embracing the sounds, traditions and energy of Africa, 'Africanism Volume III' continues this awe-inspiring journey. [more]

This pumping old style trance set will certainly get you up and ready to dance. It offers an alternative to the current dominance of the Dutch trance sound, but does so by reaching a bit too much for the style of a time gone by. [more]

Bass Station does it again with a fantastic double CD mixed by Jason Midro and Jewelz. [more]

Armin Van Buuren has gone from strength to strength in his status as a superstar DJ. If it's even possible for him to top the quality of his recent compilations then he's managed it with A State of Trance 2005, featuring some of the strongest trance you've ever heard and are ever likely to hear. [more]

Mellow, smooth and relaxing. Ultimate Chillout might sound like a dodgy compilation, but this is quality all the way. [more]

Nukleuz delivers this unexpected offering - a CD of sexy, quirky house. [more]

Mi Casa Tu Casa is a release of mixed artists from Sydney label Casa Del Discos. Founders of the label Graham Mandroules and Tony Duncan began in 2003 with the intent to release top quality local music and this album shows the success they've had. [more]

Break beat for good cause, the Breakbeat community have put this compilation together in relief of those who deserve it in the Sudan with the sticky situation over there with all profits are going to Disaster Emergence Committee and Oxfam. Two discs of breaks await once the cover sleave is removed. [more]

For all nu-skoolers this is well worth a look - deep and bassey with a few pop mixes here and there to keep you alive with occasional vocals, all up it's electronically solid. Hard-hitting and very bold. [more]

Julian Creator, real name Baker, formally of UK hip hop group The Creators brings this collection of funk, soul and rhythm from the deepest, darkest record bins around the world. [more]

Fat Records launch a new series called Chew The Fat! with Australia's own brother of breakbeat Friendly a.k.a. Andrew Kornweibel. [more]

Halo formerly of H-Foundation offers a new mix for Large Music. [more]

Future Sounds of Jazz marks ten years with it's tenth release. [more]

Gilles Peterson is a veritable musical institution, and one of the most prolific trendsetters of recent times. Now, having offered us musical adventures from all over the globe, Peterson sets his sights on deepest, darkest, funkiest Africa. [more]

With intention or not, this album is its own tidy little history lesson. Here you will be reacquainted with, or meet for the first time the godfathers, the equipment and the tracks that spawned many a movement in sound. [more]

If you've missed out on getting some of NRK's recent tracks on single release, then this is a perfect way to renew your collection as well as getting a mix from one of the world's great DJs - Hippe. [more]

When a label moves out as many compilations as OM currently does, you run the risk of tedious repetition, but this San Fran crew continues to go from strength to strength. Very nice work indeed. [more]

Where most artists/producers claim to cover all genres, this one actually does; wrapped up in cammo artwork it's an outrageously good selection compiled and mixed by Culture Club residents Starski and Tonic (CD1) and TLP aka Troubleman (CD2). [more]

Founded in 1998 by house music luminaries Louie Vega and Joe Claussell, 'Dance Ritual' is a celebration of dancefloor friendly house in all its forms. Also to be released as a double album (one mixed the other not), this eight-track teaser left me smiling big and wanting for more. [more]

Dedicated to making positive changes to the global market place and our environment, 'Impeach the Precedent' is a benefit protest album created by the politically motivated at 'Kajmere Sound Recordings' and is aimed directly at each and everyone of us. [more]

The guys at Unisex are now onto their fourth episode of the 'Atlanta Soul' series; a mix of funk, rnb and soul as its done over Atlanta, Georgia way. [more]

When you ask the very best 'electro-jazz' producers to join forces with the finest female voices around town, you know you are going to be treated to something very special. Hot on the heels of its series debut comes the very stylish, the very beautiful 'Electro Jazz Divas Volume 2'. [more]

'The Finest Nordic Lounge' is an exceptional listen from beginning to end and should have us all paying far greater attention to our Scandinavian friends. [more]

Directed at the 'tasteful' end of the sex product market, 'Private Party - The Naked Touch' is the first release under the 'Crazy Diamond' guise. Sexily packaged in a shiny black 'calm box' this album is oozing with sensuality and seduction. [more]

Whatever your opinion of dance music's biggest event, the 'Miami Music Conference', there is no denying that the compilations that emerge from it are full of fresh hot sounds. [more]

For those needing/wanting to delve into a world that compliments their after hours headspace, may I suggest a set of headphones, a dark place of slumber and Global Undergounds 'After Hours 2'. [more]

To grasp the future you need to understand the past, and few compilation series come close to documenting the movement of music like Azuli's 'A collection of Classics'. [more]

With a sound that embodies both the natural and urban underbelly that surrounds him, 'Mark Farina' has played a large part in shaping the San Franciscan house scene. [more]

Founded in the mid nineties, San Franciscan based label, 'Om Records' has built itself a reputation for consistently producing fresh, innovative and above all timeless house music. [more]

German label 'Crippled Dick Hot Wax' represents some of electronica's most impressively original artists. With a penchant for East European jazz, exploitative Italian cinema and bass infested instrumentalism, you always know you're in for a treat when one of their albums hits your stereo. [more]

Not needing to establish a preference for a particular genre, 'Dirty Diamonds II' is a deliciously inspiring collection of sounds and lyrics from every point in time. [more]

The Warp Brothers (Oliver Goedicke and J�rgen Dohr) have been hammering their solid style of dance across the globe for around 5 years. Just recently Sydney clubbers got their dose of Warp Brother mayhem and here on 'Live in Sydney 2005' is what they got. [more]

'Movements' is an awe-inspiring album consisting entirely of rare 45s from the late sixties and early seventies, each one having been lovingly remastered by Munich's Perfect Toy label. [more]

An album absolutely perfect for those wanting a more chilled out and relaxed style of nujazz. [more]

Now up to its 56th vinyl release, Poker Flat continues to be a brainchild of artists like Bug, Landsky, Tejada, Lidbo, and Samuel - and this latest CD release includes ten current and forthcoming 12" releases. [more]

Stuttgart, Germany-based label Pulver Records was founded by five-piece house / nufunk outfit (and recent Australian visitors) Dublex Inc., who released their recent well-received debut album 'Eight Ears' through the label earlier this year. [more]

Some of the latest vinyl releases from Tidy. [more]

A title derived from Lisa's own event, this Hard Style compilation offers big beats, big build ups and the occasional melody. A flawless mix from one of the worlds best female DJ's. [more]

On this, the third offering from breaks messiah Skool of Thought (Lloyd to his nearest and dearest) the sound is decidedly funky and frenziedly fantabulous. [more]

Relive your Transmission experience, and wile away the time until the next party, with Trance Anthems 2005. [more]

A long, long time ago, Dub meant something else. I guess you could roughly call it instrumental reggae, the rough dubplates Jamaican DJs produced on eight track recorders when laptop was an inventive sexual manoeuvre. [more]

The Kings of series is dedicated to showing the finest from lost or forgotten genres. With funk on the rise of late - if the CD's I receive to review are any indication - CD number two of the series arrives with perfect timing. [more]

The best dance music station in Australia, if I do say so myself, Fresh FM (Adelaide) have just released their first compilation showcasing the local talent. There's a wide range of dance music featured - trance, house, techno, hip-hop. [more]

This instalment in the Chillout Sessions series was designed, according to its press release, to "[push] things forward" in the chillout genre. [more]

The 4th instalment of Handy Kandy hits the shelves. [more]

The Super Furry Animals take us under the influence of some of their favourite records, with a bit of everthing from the Beach Boys to Underworld. [more]

The cover, albeit the promotional one, says 'Full Cycle are going to show you what happens when certain heads collide, when certain forces come to blow'. Indeed, this is essentially a collaboration between Roni Size, Krust, Die, Clipz, Surge and D Product - Photek and Tali feature too. [more]

Dave Seaman has been one of my favourite DJs for quite a few years now. I own many of his mixes and have seen him live as often as any other international DJ. Luke Chable on the other hand is a complete mystery to me. [more]

Not only does this album work, it leaves you feeling like you've just spent a night curled in the lap of some of this century's most creative musical geniuses. My suggestion is to snuggle on the couch, grab a bottle of red, and let the Flaming Lips spin out their fabulous "Late Night Tales". [more]

DJ Masters Unmixed #3 is a three CD compilation touted for the CD DJ. But is it worth buying?? [more]

The Blank & Jones fromage factory continues to churn out products full of holes. [more]

This CD has almost everything, from breakbeat, to 4/4, to some trance, tech, and even more eclectic sounds. It is so interesting you could seriously just sit there and listen to it for hours on repeat as I'm sure you would hear something new every time! [more]

It's Miami Beach, the sun is setting and Danny Howells is behind the decks. It's Global Underground 027: Miami. You're in for a grand cocktail of sun-filled house music infused with funk, tech, electro, techno, progressive rhythms and glitchy madness. [more]

Hard NRG storms back with it's eighth release, this time with internationally renowned uber-trancers Cosmic Gate and local hero John Ferris at the helm! [more]

So is this just another commercial house music CD... or something more? [more]

With everything from Lola's Theme to Flashdance this double cd is full of excessively funky house, happy vibes and warm atmospheres an is a must have for all house and Shapeshifters fans. [more]

Rush resident Adam White delivers another smoking two disc trance spectacular! [more]

The Vicious label is at it again, this time with a compilation CD mixed by Melbourne's well respected house DJ John Course. [more]

Most Rated Miami is the second release from Defected, within the Most Rated series, and it comes with a guarantee from the Defected crew to be totally upfront and as innovative as the last release, giving the full flavour of Miami. [more]

With so many generically branded 'run of the mill' type mixes that seem to be dominating the CD market and charts at the present moment, this latest release mixed by Toni Rios on Sven Vaths' label Cocoon, reinstates a breath of fresh air into the aforementioned proverbial musical rut. [more]

One of Australia's best known beat makers Katalyst has taken some of the most diverse tracks, from a wide array of eras, in a wide array of genres mixed them together into what is a must have two disc set for all music connoisseurs. [more]

Meat Katie delivers the 21st installment of their FabricLive series. [more]

Well Mardi Gras may be over for another year, but the party keeps on going with Oxford Street Anthems. [more]

The Welsh capital of Cardiff has, over the last half century, been home to a wealth of musical stars for a city of its size. Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey and more have all called Caerdydd home, so it's about time someone with a feel for electronic music started making waves. [more]

The latest installment of the successful Ruby Trance series is as spectacular and seductive as ever. [more]

There is nothing phenomenal about this mix tape - there is no Jazzy Jeff juggling, no Grandmaster scratching and certainly no unpredictable turntable psychotics reminiscent of the X-ecutioners. But let me tell you how much it shits on all of them. [more]

Once upon a time, well, a few years back, Stone's Throw head honcho Peanut Butter Wolf took a long tour across the US, bowling and meeting funk veterans along the way. [more]

Rising from the ashes of his career as A&R man for the City Rockers label Damian Lazarus has emerged with the second album from his new label Crosstown Rebels. [more]

Running for close enough to two years the Funk club by all reports is a Perth Friday night institution. Capturing the feel for those of us around our expansive land is Recording Vol 1 a live recording from June 2004 with a little something for all lovers of funk. [more]

It's Defected Record's successful true soul house series - and if you can appreciate it you know that you are listening to some good quality house. Joey Negro aka the master Dave Lee does not disappoint. [more]

Melbourne technology sage Phil K is taking the reigns for the latest instalment of Y4K, giving him the opportunity to work his enormous technical skills in all things dance music - and if we're lucky, maybe even treat his fans to a tasty selection of the latest nu-school breaks as well. [more]

Luke Slater releases a follow-up to his successful Fear and Loathing mix album, with two discs of diverse techno. [more]

Superclub dance brands want to be where the money is. Currently, money is being made in the compiling of music that contains one disc showcasing the latest upfront funky house and another disc purveying something a little more abstract. [more]

Based on the events surrounding the making of the movie "Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song", the soundtrack to "Baadasssss" contains soul, funk and hip hop. Distributed by Creative Vibes, and with artists such as Roy Ayers and Jean Grae, you just know this album is going to deliver. And it does. [more]

There's something about a sexy, sultry female vocal layered over some well-programmed beats. With plenty of live instrumentation and slick production combined with real song based structures this cd is essential for anyone who appreciates quality music that is both challenging and interesting. [more]

A takeaway serving of tracks from many of the artists who performed at this year's Good Vibrations festival. [more]

The compilation brings together 13 recent releases from the Freerange Record label. It showcases downtempo, dubbed, electro-infused, deep and bleepy house, but doesn't stray too far from the safety of these genres. [more]

If you're after a CD to play in the car, at a party or before hitting the clubs then look no further than the latest double CD mixed by Solitaire and Static Revenger. [more]

A fresh down to earth well mixed compilation offering a variety of house favorites from late 2004 to now. [more]

Chicken Lips stroke the acid, assemble the clicks and fires up the disco burners for this latest release off the Trust The DJ label. [more]

The second release in the Original Series from Bedrock is a tour de force in progressive breaks. A truly cohesive set, this CD provides an exciting and highly enjoyable journey down a new path. If you want to expand your musical repertoire, then start here. [more]

Fabric 21 mixed by DJ Heather is quickly becoming another favourite mix CD of the new-year. [more]

There's no room for veterans such as London Elektricity on mix no 4, well executed by up and comer Cyantific, who drops a few of his own gems including the vocal-laden bass-bubbly Die 4 U and the jungle influenced Little Green Man. [more]

Buddha-bar compilations have a definite name for themselves as a showcase of world-music presented over ambient, chilled tunes. [more]

This Is What Radio Should Sound Like is the first comilation from King Britt's label Fixesixrecording. From electronic, guitar led ballads to some of the most atmospheric broken beat to house tunes this is a tremendous showcase of the label's brilliant sound. [more]

Doin' It After Dark 02 follows on from the successful Doin' It After Dark 01 mixed and compiled by Groove Armada. This compilation is once again produced by Groove Armada, which is essentially Andy Cato and Tom Findlay, and is released on their London-based label Ragbull. [more]

Dreadzone Sound System have returned to remind us what we've been missing out on with Beatz & Bobz Volume 4, their first album release in three years. [more]

Over the last decade, MC Det's profile within the UK drum and bass community has grown steadily (helped not least by his prolific live schedule) to the point at which he's become perhaps one of the scene's best known MCs [more]

From the stable of one of my favourite labels, and one of the world's best underground house labels comes Faith: Different Strokes For House Folks mixed by Terry Farley & Stuart Patterson. [more]

For a CD that crows on the sleeve about its variety of offerings, where was the hip-hop? The posturing of the Prodigy? DJs Hyper and Zinc? Or anyone on the line-up really? [more]

The original soundtrack to new game developed by Ingrooves Games has some big names and big tracks, and is mixed by old schooler glitz house specialist Felix da Housecat. [more]

This compilation is an invitation into the world of the artists featured; it emphasizes the importance of music's role in the search for peace. It features two unmixed discs, the first disc titled 'Woman' and the second titled 'Man'. [more]

The unofficial soundtrack to Australia's annual French Film Festival, So Frenchy So Chic carries the listener on a journey through the diversity and richness of the French musical landscape. [more]

The continually evolving and growing Evolutionary Vibes series now delivers 'The Tenacious Years'; an unmixed eclectic blend of Australian music spanning a multiplicity of genres. [more]

Going into this review with mixed emotions and thoughts I was quickly silenced by the genius of Jazzy Jeff, his track selection, and ability to bring together classic artists like The Temptations, Booker T, Barry White and Soul Central. [more]

A taste of the funk and soul coming out of California compiled by Adrian Gibson [more]

Dub is the inspiration behind Fran�ois K's new club night, Deep Space. Not simply its early 70s Jamaican reggae roots, but dub as a "truly groundbreaking conceptual art form", as an abstraction of the essence of music. This compilation offers the listener a glimpse of the club's music. [more]

With the quality of progressive tracks available today, this mix really had the opportunity to become an all-time classic, especially considering both discs start off with such promise. [more]

Salsoul's legacy is one huge back catalogue made up of material of a surprisingly high standard - underground in its essence and supreme in the quality of the songwriting and musicianship. [more]

A good effective cover version often occurs where the artist takes the original and adds something new to it. This could be anything like an element of wackiness, humor, or delivery but as Marcia from Idol tells us one must really make the tune their own [more]

In an era of predictable, clean and segmented dance music where the masses have been fed homogenised crap for way too long, DFA is a shining beacon of inspiration, risks and genius. They are a label that bridges the unbridgeable gap between The Stooges and Donna Summer. [more]

The latest release on King Street Sounds sees another installment in the 'Mix The Vibe' series. As David Morales and Cevin Fisher have done previously in the series; Japan's Mondo Grosso showcases an aggressive, eclectic blend of infectious house music. [more]

The Miles From Mars mix is a showcase for the new WaveTec label, "Miles from Mars" displaying the wealth of unique talent present there. [more]

Who knew that 2004 marked the tenth anniversary since ultra-eclectic Berlin-based label Kitty-Yo first began releasing records fusing electronic elements with as disparate and wide-ranging genres as jazz, hiphop, country and indie rock? Certainly not me; [more]

If things all mish-mashed and bish bash boshy mixed in with smooth house and jazz float yer boat ... this could be one for you. [more]

The debut mix CD by Moonbootica showcases their unique blend of house, breaks and electro-clash. [more]

Mantra Vibes is one of the recent offshoot sublabels of Italy's seminal Sueno Latino house imprint, and focuses primarily upon progressive-edged house sounds, whilst sister imprints Mantra Breaks and Mantra Smiles deal mainly in breakbeat and hard-acid tinged tracks [more]

San Francisco Sessions returns with its 5th installment mixed by US house aficionados Lance De Sardi & J.T. Donaldson. [more]

One of the most respected names in dance music makes a return to the compilation market with the first release in a new series titled Slinky - Trans-Atlantik. [more]

For a taste of what we'll all be boogying down to on a hot day in late January, the team behind the Big Day Out team have released the official souvenir compilation for the 2005 event as a companion for the incoming festival season. [more]

Our friends at central station records have teamed up with Dinky records, Tinted records and Bang On, to produce this 3CD set aimed exclusively at CD DJ's or computer DJ's. [more]

A unique and diverse mix of trip-hop, happy house, folk, rock, downtempo, electro and imagination. Magic Summer is a sensual experience that conjures up memories of times gone by and images of things to come. THE perfect summer soundtrack! [more]

Brisbane-based dance label Nutznboltz Records first emerged around a year and a half ago, their inaugural album release being Brisbane electro duo Kid Kay Ferris' debut full-length offering 'Colour Me Badd.' [more]

Australia's #1 hard Nrg dance dj brings us the latest in his series of mix cds. [more]

Steve seems to naturally weave a mix that builds in intensity, instead of just going for a selection of big hits. His skills are akin to that those of a boxer, cleverly out-pointing his opponent, occasionally rocking him back on his heels, without needing to rely on one big hit for an easy victory! [more]

At first glance, it comes across as a bit of a surprise that it's taken up until now for Vienna nujazz / downtempo electronic merchants Couch Records to release their first label showcase compilation, as they've been plowing a distinctive jazz-laden approach for nigh on six years now [more]

Glastonbury native Will Saul has earned himself a reputation for his seamless mixes fusing breakbeats, dub, techno and electro of all tempos and variations. Simple One is the first compilation from his own label Simple Records. [more]

Perth's Greg Packer delivers Intertia's first ever dance mix CD, unleashing a fine selection of melodic d'n'b. [more]

UK collective Bugz in the Attic have been making ripples in dancefloors for sometime now. Got the Bug offers fans a chance at sampling their very much in demand remixing skills. [more]

The Music for Freaks (MFF) label was started by Justin Harris and Luke Solomon as an "outlet for their own recordings and of other like-minded souls". There has been a distinctive style to MFF releases to date which tends to focus on techy minimal house.. [more]

The first release from the Clubwork compilation series is mixed by well known Australian house DJ's and producers Andy Van and mrTimothy. The inception of the series itself is indeed a great one with an intention of being a compilation specifically aimed for clubbers. [more]

Yet another in Defected's series of 'In The House' releases comes DJ Gregory's In The House debut having featured on almost every other compilation, he finally gets his own. [more]

Breakin' In The House, the newly released 10th installation in the Y4K series is presented by Fingerlickin' duo Soul of Man. Since founding Fingerlickin' Records in 1998, the pair have been among breakbeats biggest names so it's not surprising that they've been chosen by Distinctive Records... [more]

Optimo is a party in Sub Club (Glasgow) starring Twitch and Jonnie Wilkes that has been moving from strength-to-strength since its inception in 1997. They have a mash-up DJ style where juxtaposition of the rare and unexpected is a major feature creating an air of debauchery and creativity. [more]

Laurent Garnier releases his first every retro compilation with a selection of tracks that provide a wonderful insight into his early influences and inspirations. [more]

Deep Throat was actually a landmark film back when it was released in the early 70's. Where previously porno films were though mainly to be the domain of trench-coat clad perverts, Deep Throat managed to make porno chic. [more]

Danny Williamson really needs no introduction. In fact, I've lost count of how many 'Progression Sessions' are out there - this guy is a release machine - and like most things that bear the names 'LTJ Bukem' and 'Good Looking Records', the result is class and charm. [more]

Steve Bug is Stefan Br�gesch. And I really like him. He has always been a bit underground and never too commercial. Importantly though, he is a master of his craft. Founding Dessous and later Pokerflat Recordings, he is 'the man' when it comes to minimal house. [more]

Sub-titled "The Cream of Lounge Cuisine", this stylish new compilation includes laidback and soulful lounge tracks from Jazzanova, Chungking, Chilled By Nature, The Bays and more. [more]

DJ SS needs no introduction. From killing dance floors worldwide, not to mention Australia, he is one of the very biggest names to emanate from the old school jungle scene, to the new school - drums and basses. [more]

Over the past six years or so Parisian Stephane Pompougnac has been serving up his 'Hotel Costes' compliations. These compilations have come to redefine what we all have come to expect from lounge-music style mixes with their distinctive elegance and style. [more]

Armin van Buuren delivers a storming melodic mix live from Armada in Ibiza for listening pleasure as a follow up to last years Universal Religion. [more]

The latest offering from one of techno's brightest stars. [more]

If it wasn't for losing his day job, the world may never have realised the true potential of the great one. For today, Ganja Records belongs to the accomplished and famed DJ Hype. [more]

Another year, another Ministry of Sound Annual CD. The Annual series have been the biggest dance compilations that Australia has ever seen, and once again John Course and Mark Dynamix are onboard to provide us with a reflective look at the tunes that were huge over the last year. [more]

Triple J present a collection of chilled tunes and funky mixes selected by Groove Train host Sharif Galal. [more]

Cool Cuts is a 16 track unmixed compilation of the past years dance hits. Jumping between tracks the CD is a little inconsistent in genre features big names from both the house and trance scene. [more]

The latest from Hed Kandi, World Series 3 is a triple disc compilation with some of the best sounding tunes in chill house and disco at the moment. Mixed the whole way through all I can say is enjoy. [more]

Mixmag Live, a compliation series spanning over 50 compilations has recently been revived, the latest offering is by young Englishman Nic Fanciulli and is a boomer of a deep house mix [more]

This megaphat compilation is the best thing I've heard in a long time. It spits out spanking tracks again and again. Everyone loves a deal - you get R'n'B, house and tech/trance... that's right - it's fatter than your mum's roast turkey! [more]

As the title suggests, this new release is One Step Ahead in every sense of the word. Seamlessly fusing all the elements from a variety of genres and to sound like an excited teenager, it's a "cool" mix. [more]

A man that never ceases to amaze me has done it once again. Seb Fontaine has a hot new release on Oakey's Perfecto Label. [more]

Basically an in-house compilation from one of the UK's most respected labels, BBE, this third volume sees head honcho Peter Adarkwah supply us with tracks from his own record box, all resulting in a varied and funky mix. [more]

Over the past few years, Sydney based electronic / jazz cross-over label Jazzgroove Records helmed by label head Gerard Masters has released some of the most intriguing music being produced by local musicians operating at the junction point between digital trickery and live improvisation. [more]

This all-Australian hip-hop, breakbeat and drum'n'bass compilation, mixed by DJ Shredlock, has just been released to coincide with the Nokia-sponsored tour of the same name, which is currently showcasing Australia's best producing talent at nine locations around the country. [more]

Originally released way back in 1994, Renaissance: The Mix is widely considered to be the grand-daddy of all mix CDs. A decade has passed and the music has moved on, but Renaissance: The Mix Collection holds onto its status as one of the greatest mix albums of all time. [more]

Moving between techno, techhouse and electrohouse, this album gives an aural snapshot of some of the most recent major releases for the Glaswegian label. [more]

Goldie rebuilds his shattered Death Star, cuts off his son's hand and has Han Solo encased in carbonite. He also complies 11 storming tunes from some of the Empire's finest producers, and packages them in a 2 disc set for your listening pleasure. [more]

After a string of successful 'In the House' releases in the UK and Europe, Defected release their first ever International Edition CD especially for Australian music lovers which claims to be the definitive guide to upfront and classic house music. [more]

Over the years, DMC have been releasing a series of compilations put together by well respected producers and DJ's which focus on the 'after hours sound' - the quiet, light and at times even soulful side of music. Techno legend Carl Cox is behind the latest release in the series. [more]

Hard Dance at its best or just overrated noise? Prior to listening to this CD, I had never even heard of Illogic, who is one of the newer additions to the Nukleuz crew, but I was eager to find out as there has been a bit of hype surrounding him. [more]

The master of tabla and one of the greatest musicians and producers of current times has taken a big stick to his melting pot of tunes, added a handful of esteemed collaborative artists and given it a big stir. The result? All Mixed Up. [more]

Just in time for summer comes the next installment from Loveslapped Recordings. Essential for any fan of this style of soulful uplifting vocal house, with plenty of organic soul, funk and jazz elements and strong vocals combined with just enough energy to keep you moving. [more]

Delivering an album's worth of very sexy and stylish house music that reveals the essence of Milan, this is music best served with a martini! [more]

One of Australia's premier breaks producers EK presents a banging mix featuring all Australian talent. [more]

From the people who bought you the Cafe Del Mar series comes the ambient sounds of Cafe Del Sol. [more]

David Vendetta has produced gold in the form of his newest release Tribal Mix Vol.1 out through Wagram/Creative Vibes. I cannot remember a time when a compilation really shook my world but this one has managed to do it ten times over. [more]

Kandy Kollective have teamed up with the man who is one half of the pioneers of Hard Dance, Stimulant DJ's to produce this deliciously dark, hard and throbbing thrapatron! [more]

'The Gallery' is placed alongside 'The Loft' and 'The Paradise Garage' as the three most influential disco clubs in NYC around in the 70's and 80's. Nicki Siano - the resident DJ at both The Gallery and then Studio 54 - is credited as being once the king of DJs. [more]

J.Boogie's Dubtronic Science have released a live set that includes decks, sitars, flutes, saxophones and various vocalists to bring auditory pleasure and relaxation to your ears [more]

Normally I'm not much of a fan of mixed cds, nor particularly of the whole concept of 'late night chill-out lounge' tunes, but in this collection of Kieran Hebden's (aka Four Tet) favourite tracks my worst expectations haven't been realised by any stretch. [more]

Newcastle's Killing Sheep Records has taken up where the end of Bloody Fist left off with a compilation of some of the hardest drum and bass that's ever made it's way out of studios across the globe. [more]

The newest release from Germany's Blutonium Boy & Thomas Trouble is quite a package. This 2 CD Compilation out through MoS is the newest addition to the running Hardstyle Series from Blutonium et al...and it's a cracker! [more]

The inspired decision to cover the whole available selection of party breaks, combined with Kid Kenobi's impeccable track selection and DJing skills, makes Breaks 04 one of the finest breaks compilations to ever see the light of day. [more]

This four disk compilation from trance legends Rank 1 and Matt Darey presents an assortment of monster trance tunes both new and old. [more]

Welsh production duo take the Y4K series on their own deep and dark ride through the world of dark and progressive breaks. [more]

The eclecticism of Giles Peterson has arguably made him one of the most loved and influential DJs of our time. His explorations in funk, roots, jazz and soul have no boundaries, hence the name of his BBC Radio 1 Show WorldWide. This is the first time Peterson has made an album dedicated to Brazil. [more]

Wagram Music have released what they refer to as a series of four eclectic electro albums. The "Nu" series features "Pop", "Soul", "Jazz" and "Funk"; 24 rare tracks, with in this case a funk flavour, spread over two discs. [more]

Funky Chocolate is a an upcoming French DJ/Producer who has a romantic obsession with black American music. For 'Underground Classics: New York Soulful Vocals & Detroit House Classics' he has pulled together a whole load of killer house tunes that seep with the house sound of Detroit. [more]

This release marks the second installment of the Subliminal Winter Sessions series, which sees the man behind the label - Erick Morillo, throw down two very tasty mixes in a double CD format. [more]

If you call yourself an Aussie breaks fan there's no excuse for not being familiar with a short black Englishman by the name of Tayo. [more]

Community radio has played an integral part in the Australian hip hop scene, so when looking to kick of their compilation series Sydney's FBI looked no further than Stolen Records and our brilliant home grown talent. [more]

There are any number of trance mixes out on the market. The most basic of searches on one local on-line seller returned 17 trance compilations with a 2004 release date. And I know of several other release that the search did not uncover. So should you buy this one? [more]

Seattle does not really seem like a likely place for funk and soul music right? That's more like Detroit - Motown's home ground ain't it? Well back in the day, before Seattle was known for it's grungeit had a thriving live scene - something like 25 venues or so pussing out with funk and soul music. [more]

Nu-jazz / broken beat outfit Jazzanova's Munich-based Sonar Kollektiv label has emerged to become one of the most consistently high-quality and hard-to-pigeonhole European electronic imprints in recent times, with fantastic releases in the last few months from the likes of Double U and Umod [more]

Lovers of world music, here is yet another menu of delectable modern tastes to carry you through a series of landscapes, sounds and times, perfectly arranged for those chilled-out afternoons, a quiet dinner party or that scenic road-trip. [more]

A few interesting takes on poppy tracks that have been remixed by various people and put together on a 2CD compilation. Surprisingly listenable is my verdict. [more]

Chillout Sessions 6 has two discs to choose from: the first a fine collection of alternative tunes and laid back grooves, while the second is more upbeat and from the dance end of the spectrum. Your choice; you choose. [more]

Probably the scene's biggest name, Andy C rarely disappoints and Nightlife 2 is no exception. In fact, it may well be the best drum & bass mix I have heard. Chuck in a bonus disc of his own productions and you have money well spent. [more]

This two disc compilation mixed and chosen by Bob Sinclar is filled with old and new sensations both from the producer himself and others. It is a mix of vibrant, funky and soulful house. [more]

Let me say upfront, this is nothing like I expected. Seeking a smooth yet tough house mix with the usual class and precision Kenny Dope is known for - especially as part of his Masters At Work Outfit - I was surprised, but pleasantly. [more]

The Notting Hill Carnival is nothing less than the biggest free street carnival in Europe. Norman Jay and his brother Joey have become the un-official ambassadors of the festival as they operate the most popular sound system - 'Good Times'. [more]

Mixed by 4Strings & Nervous, Transmission White features huge trance anthems that were and anthems yet to be. Accompanied by a bonus DVD with footage of past Transmission events this compilation is awesome. [more]

When arguably hard dance's biggest label releases a three disc collection featuring some of the largest tracks of the past, present and future they don't do it by halves. [more]

In an effort to emulate his live performances Mr. Scruff is release a series of releases that will hopefully fill the void for devote fans and new comers alike. [more]

A fourteen track trip of contemporary acid house tracks from numerous acid house luminaries, Bad Acid is packed with a multitude of glistening bleeps and squelches. [more]

Arguably one of the finest and foremost proponents in the early jungle and subsequently the global drum and bass phenomenon, the stylistic and future thinking LTJ Bukem gained fame a number of different ways in this movement. [more]

Typically, a drum and bass mix that features artists like Technical Itch, Dom & Roland and Calyx is going to be good. And after just one listen, this one is clearly, as the terminology in the scene would put it, "the business". [more]