(Good Looking/Inertia)

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. Smooth DJ and label head of Good Looking Records, he is also one of the scene’s most prolific producers. His taste and flexibility are world renowned as is his constant ability to reinvent himself. And once again, the diversity of Good Looking returns once more on the seminal Earth series.

To this end, ‘Scorched Earth’ is a marvelously jazzy and sublime collection of 13 hand picked tracks by various artists. Moreover, this release contains a bonus limited edition DTS DVD. The sound quality on it is awesome and includes an exclusive interview with LTJ as well as Martin Greenwood, the sound engineer. ‘Scorched Earth’ follows on from his hugely successful Progression Sessions series yet is completely different, for it crosses a number of musical boundaries. A Chick Corea fan, this episode is far more timid jazz than drum and bass, despite the sticker on the cover artwork. Nevertheless, there are beats, there is house, there are breaks – in all, it is a bit of everything. Flutes no less, an LTJ staple, appear on ‘Guiding Star’ (K-Scope).

In all, tycoon LTJ has once again set his own agenda. This is a smooth blend of good, level headed tracks that are as easily at home in a coffee shop as they are in your headphones. ‘I want your Love’ by Makoto has a soothing retro nature, almost 70s pornographic if you will (!) but the stringed production is positively powerful and classy. ‘Better Love’ (Nookie) is clearly house rather than drum and bass but still maintains that trademark atmospheric and uplifting LTJ style. My favorite though, is ‘The Switch’ by Cedar with its canny house vibe and interesting, off camber snare.

This mix more than anything is typically eclectic and cosmopolitan. More Venice summer, than London winter. In the end though, I guess it does turn out to be predictably Bukem – like all his work, it is designed to capture your spirit and nourish your soul – but just a little – that is what he does best, and clearly, what has brought him such great success. Deservedly so too, this is a wonderful collection of beats – with an immaculately timed release – just on the cusp of an Australian summer. Perfect.