(Roadrunner)

After his major success last year with the Elvis Vs JXL track ‘A Little Less Conversation’, Junkie XL (aka Tom Holkenborg) returns with this highly anticipated third album. The double CD consists of a 3PM and 3AM disc and features a slew of collaborations with industry legends including Gary Numan, Chuck D, Robert Smith, Terry Hall and Republica’s Saffron. Based around the concept of a virtual pirate radio station the corresponding website contains instructions on how to download the third disc (5AM) which is available online only. Having developed a strong friendship with Sasha after the release of the second album (Big Sounds of the Drags); Tom has now co-produced Airdrawndagger and is starting to make a significant impact on the progressive house scene through his amazing remixes and releases.

The 3PM disc kicks off a cheeky array of bleeps and effect thrashed vocals throughout the Intro leading into the start of Crusher featuring Saffron. The warm sound and trademark JXL break beats create a lively vibe right from the opening track; backed all the way with vocals bursting with unmistakable punk attitude, provided by Republica’s lead singer. Don’t Wake Up Policeman feat. Peter Tosh follows with a smooth reggae sound and driving house beat. The vocal cuts originating from an unreleased session with Sly & Robbie and The Wailers’ backing singers which may never have seen the light of day were it not for Junkie XL’s intervention. Reload is the first of the tracks featuring Dava Gahan frontman of synth pioneers and stadium rock legends, Depeche Mode. Originally intended for the soundtrack to the Matrix sequel, it is best described by Tom. “It’s a very funky track with a really funky guitar line and in the chorus it really explodes. His voice gives it kind of dark atmosphere and at the same time it’s uplifting as well…”

Saffron’s vocals return in funked up form in Spirits, backed by bouncy synth and bass. Angels featuring electro-pop legend Gary Numan is a beautiful track. Numan’s unique vocals creating a fantastic atmosphere, layered over the dark melodies. The pace slows a touch with Perfect Blue Sky featuring Robert Smith from The Cure. His trademark vocals throughout this moody electro track are simply amazing, and definitely a highlight of the compilation. The chilled pace continues with Between These Walls feat. Anouk, and the dirty sound of Access To The Excess. The next guest to feature in Catch Up To My Step is soul legend Solomon Burke. This track is bursting with blues licks and JXL’s rocking beats together with Burke’s soulful vocals.

Never Alone plods along with its funky beats and lively vocals by Terry Hall frontman of The Specials. The down tempo tune Logo, featuring Phill Mills has a great crunchy electro bassline that oozes along throughout the track. Aussie legends Infusion contribute two tracks to the Radio JXL compilation. The driving energy of Nightmares and lazy break beats of Aqua Man follow. Saffron makes her final appearance on vocals for the prog anthem Beauty Never Fades; her graceful dark vocals adding a dramatic feel to this amazing track. Rivers showcases the vocal talents of Shelley Harland through immaculate layering and harmonising that produces a moving atmosphere. Broken concludes this amazing compilation on a dreamy contemplative note.

Unfortunately the promo didn’t come with the 3AM disc which is currently included in the commercial version of the release. This second disc contains a number of chilled tracks which are no doubt quality if the 3PM disc is anything to go by. Overall the compilation is definitely a jam packed album full of unique tracks that seem to meld together the classic sound of rock with the freshest electronic sounds, and spicy beats. With all the cameos by the talented guest vocalists, complimented by Holkenborg’s stunning ability to assemble various elements in each tracks, this is a must have for any JXL fan.