For the second year running the Technics ITM50 campaign is more than just a poll of Australia’s top jock. It culminates in the release of a double mix CD promoting some of Australia’s hottest DJ talent. Technics ITM50 is all about getting people interacting, talking, debating and promoting our dance music scene. Artists chosen to mix the CD are those seen to be pushing the scene forward in their respective genres, leaders in their respective fields. This year honours have been handed to former Canberra and now Sydney based DJ Robkay, and Melbourne’s Nick Thayer.

Robkay takes charge on the first disc and immediately gets things cranking as he launches into a deep and dirty electro vibe. The mix features 19 tracks from Dark Mountain Group, Bodyrox, Roger Sanchez, Latrice and more as it progresses to take on a more tribal feel. Throughout, Robkay drops in acapella’s from the likes of Afrika Bambaataa and Dirty South and adds a stamp of his own flavour with three of his own remixes. A stomping mix that will ensure a few more ears prick up to the sound of his name beyond the NSW borders.

Nick Thayer has enjoyed a higher national profile to date through more regular national touring and his recent international Breakspoll award with Basskleph. Accompanied by MC N’fa, over 26 tracks Thayer weaves a path from funky breaks through to drum’n’bass. He features tracks from heavy weights such as Plump DJs and Stanton Warriors through to Aussie locals such as Micah. Thayer also drops in a number of his own tracks and remixes. Thayer’s is a fast paced and energetic mix that explores the different flavours of breakbeat and has the feet shuffling in no time. Guaranteed fun.

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. Yet neither have a presence on the flooded market of dance music compilations. In keeping with tradition ITM50 is a must check out compilation for serious fans of Aussie dance music.