(inthemix/Central Station)

The success of the Technics inthemix50 DJ Poll in Australia has been overwhelming to say the least, so much so it’s a wonder it hadn’t been done on such a scale before. With the poll having recently finished it’s third run (won nationally for the third time running by Kid Kenobi) it’s time for another first – an ITM mix CD.

Sydney house jock Illya and Melbourne electro fiend Boogs have been carving a niche in their respective scenes for some time now. Illya crept into the national top 10 on this years inthemix50 poll at number 8, whilst Boogs made it in at an also impressive 18. Throughout July and August Illya and Boogs toured nationally for the Technics inthemix50 wrap up parties to packed crowds and huge acclaim. The tour offered both DJs the opportunity to gain national exposure. These CD’s further this opportunity and offer dance music fans insight into these two stalwarts of their respective scenes.

Illya is responsible for the first disc, 18 tracks of deep and bouncing house. It doesn’t delve too deep, instead remaining upbeat and energetic. With Illya being a self-confessed Derrick Carter fan, Carter’s jackin’ “Chicagao” flavour is not too far a comparison. Illya includes two of his own collaborative (with Toby Neal & Julian Jason) productions in the mix, the opening track Pusstime as well as one of the highlights of the disc, the incredibly catchy Barnyard Announcement. This first disc is one to get people moving, certain to freshen up any party.

Boogs takes on mixing duties for disc two and it’s immediately obvious upon first listening that this mix is for the other end of the night. Boog’s mix of electro is a little dirtier and grittier, one for the late night stayers on the dancefloor. It remains well paced throughout, relying on energy from distorted melodies and often manic vocals rather than uptempo beats. From Soulwax to Futureshock, it’s variety is one of it’s strengths.

Between these two discs you’re given the bookends for a kickass party soundtrack. Hopefully we can see future releases uncovering and exposing DJs of similar calibre who week in, week out, are driving the nations dance scene. A quality debut release!