pr0fane
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Artist: Antix
Title: Twin Coast Remixes
Label: Iboga
Format: CD (Jewelcase with 4 page inlay)
Released: November, 2005
Review:
Take one of the most successful progressive albums of 2005, ask some of the most well-respected artists on the scene to remix it, and you have Antix's "Twin Coast Remixes": A highly anticipated remix-release with appearances by artists like FREq, Phony Orphants, D-Nox & Beckers, Vibrasphere and Sun Control Species. The original release is Antix's critically acclaimed 2nd album "Twin Coast Discovery", and behind the remix-album is Danish powerhouse Iboga Records – the most active progressive label in 2005, and widely a label widely considered as one of the most important on the progressive labels on the scene today.
01. Antix - Le Lascard (D-Nox & Beckers Remix) [130 BPM]
First remix is from D-Nox & Beckers, the sizzling hot German duo with some truly stunning releases behind them the last year. As expected their remix of "Le Lascard" is groovier than the original, but isn't quite as dirty and funky as some of their later works. Their version never gets as euphoric as the thematic original, but is overall quite good - delicate and enjoyable.
02. Antix - Hiding Place (Phony Orphants Remix) [125 BPM]
The danish duo Phony Orphants is up next with their remix of "Hiding Place" - a track that already was a remix Antix/Fiord made of Rhian Sheehan and Jess Chambers track by the same name. Like on the latest Phony Orphants album, the sound here is very oldschool-inspired, with a very distinct 80's touch. While it worked pretty good on the album, this remix feels slightly awkward to me though - the epic vocals doesn't seem to fit very well with the dirty electro synths.
03. Antix - Cold Nights (FREq Remix) [130 BPM]
After the release of his monster-hit of an album, "Strange Attractors" back in 2004, FREq seemed to move towards the faster and faster progressive sound, but lately he has moved back in the groovier territory around the 130 BPM mark. In my opinion the slower tempo fit better with his sounds, and this remix of "Cold Night" is certainly no exception - laidback, but with a stunning big-room sound, big pads and delightful melodies. Excellent remix, and in my opinion FREq's best work for quite a while.
04. Antix - Little Honey (Fitalic Remix) [130 BPM]
Up next is "Little Honey" remixed by Robbin Fitter from Holland, better known as Fitalic. The groove is - as always by Fitalic - bouncy and upbeat, and it works fine with the melancholic theme from the original. Not a very original remix overall though, but I can't say that I didn't find it enjoyable.
05. Antix - Forever Changing (Vibrasphere Remix) [133 BPM]
"Forever Changing" was in my opinion one of the standout tracks on the original album, so a remix by one of my favourite acts, Vibrasphere was something I was looking very much forward to. Sadly the result was a disappointment: Vibrasphere left out their trademark; the big room reverbs and trancy pads, and instead the remix is rather flat and sterile - not necessarily bad, but not that noteworthy either.
06. Antix - Little Honey (Sun Control Species vs. Osiris Indriya Remix) [130 BPM]
Sun Control Species team up with the, to me, unknown artist Osiris Indriya from USA on the remix of "Little Honey". Their version is very close to the melancholic original, yet with a deeper and slightly gloomier atmosphere and embellished with delicious tribal percussion. A very pleasant track, but as a remix I found it to be too close to the original, and not really that interesting.
07. Antix - Le Lascard (Ohrsten Nors Remix) [128 BPM]
Ohrsten Nors from Germany isn't among the more well-known names on the progressive scene, but a few years ago he appeared on a few releases from labels like Tatsu, Nanobeat and Plastik Park. His remix of "Le Lascard" is certainly among the more daring on the CD - dark, rough and minimal, but despite the good intentions I didn't really connect to it. I especially didn't like what he did to the vocals.
08. Fiord - Hybrid [128 BPM]
The Strom Brothers themselves finish the remix-CD with "Hybrid", made under their new alternative project Fiord. It's a really delicious trancy breakbeat tune, and as the name slightly suggests, it's a hybrid of some of the tracks from "Twin Coast Discovery", like the theme from "Le Lascard" and the melancholic female vocals from "Cold Nights", plus some entirely new melodies. Delicate track, and a fine way to end the CD.
Bottom line:
If you liked the Antix-album, I am certain you're going to like most of this as well, as the sound is pretty close to the one on the album. That is perhaps also the biggest problem though - the remixes are generally a bit too similar to the originals, and I would have preferred if the release had some more diversity. That being said, the overall quality of the remixes was pretty good - the only true disappointment was the Vibrasphere remix, which didn't live up to my expectations.
So "Twin Coast Remixes" is a good package - it doesn't quite reach the same high level as the original album, but is certainly worth the money.
Favourites:
1, 3 (!!), 4, 6, 8
Verdict:
7,5/10
Link:
Iboga Records: http://www.iboga.dk
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Great set. Mixing was really tight this time, and trackselection was good as well. Especially love the Dre-Stortion track, and the Burt Banner remix of "Spam".
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"soopertrack" has been released on numerous mix cd's + compilations..
just check discogs: http://www.discogs.com/artist/Extrawelt
Yeah, well - all of these releases are mixed. I am guessing the Psychiatrist was asking when it would be released unmixed on CD
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Artist: Various
Title: Globalize - compiled by Yotopia
Label: Flow
Format: CD (Jewelcase with standard 4-page inlay)
Released: December, 2005
Review:
After 5 years in the scene, Flow is now undoubtedly one of the most influential progressive psytrance labels. In connection with the labels 5-year anniversary in 2005 the Portuguese label announced 2 new sidelabels; Hyperflow, focusing on more psychedelic full on, and Flow Vinyl, releasing progressive house on Vinyl. The main label Flow still stands strong though, and the newest release is the compilation "Globalize", compiled by the Israeli duo Yotopia, who impressed many with their surprisingly fresh and catchy progressive/full on crossover debut-album "Point Blank", released early in 2005.
01. Yotopia - Bubbles [128 BPM]
First track is from the Israeli duo Yotopia, who also compiled the CD. While their album contained a fine mix of progressive and full on around 135-141 BPM, "Bubbles" is a lot slower and more housey, but still very much with the Yotopia-sound. A bit plastic some might say, but I certainly like it - especially the sweet, naive melodies towards the end of the track. Good opener - especially because of the funky intro which, to me, clearly sounds like it's inspired by Michael Jacksons "Thriller".
02. Flash Brothers - Past Will Be Future (D-Nox & Beckers Remix) [130 BPM]
The hottest German act at the moment, D-Nox & Beckers, take up the task of remixing "Past Will Be Future" by the Israeli trio Flash Brothers. Not necessarily a well-known name in psychedelic circles, but certainly an act with a lot of credibility in traditional progressive circles, with releases on labels like Hooj Choons, Bedrock and Release. The result is really enjoyable - not as dirty and funky as some of the German duo's later works, but with a more melodic and atmospheric approach. Great track.
03. Ace Ventura - Go With Da Flow [130 BPM]
With previous involvement in Psysex, Yoni Oshrat is definitely one of the most well-respected names on the psytrance scene. In later years he has moved towards the slower, groovier music though, with his electro-project Schatsi and his progressive psytrance project Ace Ventura. His "Go With Da Flow" seemed a bit sterile to me at first, but has really grown on me - a deep tribal monster running at 130 BPM, but still with a lot of psygressive flavour. High quality dance floor material.
04. B.L.T. & Morax - Implant (Perfect Stranger Remix) [135 BPM]
Yuli Fershtat is up next with a remix of "Implant", made by himself and Morax (one of the guys from Triac). Like most from Yuli, it has a really easygoing vibe with positive melodies, funky, bouncy rhythms and rich percussion, and I can imagine this would go down really well in the afternoon at a party in the outdoors. Well done.
05. Liquid Soul - Transmission [135 BPM]
With releases on Iboga, Plastik Park, DOMO, Sog, Plusquam and Sinn Tec, 2005 has really been a breakthrough year for the Swiss project Liquid Soul. "Transmission" has his well-known pumping outdoor festival-sound embellished with some bright, trancy leads and pads. Is it catchy? Yeah - but generally I found this tune pretty cheap and flat compared to some of his other releases lately. Disappointing track.
06. Ryan Halifax - Opposites [130 BPM]
Despite lots and lots of releases, Ryan Halifax never really impressed me with any of his works, and this doesn't change with "Opposites". What I mostly don't like about his sound is that it's extremely sharp and flat, and this track is no exception - it lacks depth and punch, and basically I just didn’t connect to it at all. A filler in my opinion.
07. Antix And Rob Salmon - Tame The Beast [130 BPM]
Next track is a collaboration between the famous Kiwi's Antix and their countryman Rob Salmon, one of New Zealands more well-known House-DJ's. The result is "Tame The Beast", and it's a real treat - phat and groovy, and with a laidback, yet very positive theme. Excellent stuff for the after-hours - and I can't wait to hear the much talked-about remix by André Absolut.
08. Spanner - Pagan Pulse [130 BPM]
"Pagan Pulse" is from a new project called Spanner. Behind the project is Wouter Thomassen, who, in my opinion, is one of the most promising producers on today's scene, with a very diverse sound ranging from outstanding chillout to progressive psytrance and full on - and now also more house-inspired progressive trance. "Pagan Pulse" is simply an outstanding track, despite the low BPM it has a very phat and rolling bassline, and the track is constantly evolving - with the amazing breakdown at 5 minutes as the ultimate highlight. A huge positive surprise.
09. Gaudium - Sonic Substance [134 BPM]
To close the compilation is the Swedish duo Gaudium, who late in 2005 released their debut album "Nordic Nature" on Spiral Trax. "Sonic Substance" starts extremely promising with a deep and atmospheric intro, but after that I get the same feeling as I did with most of their album: while it sounds ok, I find their music too tedious, and it never really gets interesting. Definitely not bad, but not great either.
Bottom line:
Despite a few mediocre tracks, my overall impression of "Globalize" is very positive. Looking at the BPM's, some psy-purists will probably get intimidated, but don't worry: while there is a good deal of house-inspired tunes, most of the tracks also have a very psygressive touch, making it appeal to both fans of progressive psytrance and progressive house. Overall it doesn't reach the same outstanding level as the cream of the crop from Iboga and Tribal Vision, but I still consider it one of the best progressive compilations released in 2005 - and a release that will definitely also hit among DJ's and partygoers well into 2006.
A great compilation overall, and in my opinion one of the finest CD's Flow has ever released. Well done.
Favourites:
1, 2 (!!), 3, 4, 7 (!!), 8 (!!)
Verdict:
8/10
Link:
Flow Records: http://www.flow-records.com/
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Soopertrack is stunning, and will also be released on the new Black Oracle compilation (sidelabel for Crystal Matrix/Digital Oracle).
Border Community is generally a really interesting label - don't miss Nathan Fake's epic "The Sky Was Pink", and especially not James Holdens mindblowing remix.
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Come on, the new section is dead. Get it into general please
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Overall I didn't like it. I especially have a major problem with the incredibly annoying voice-samples and vocals.
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Artist: Various
Title: Mountain High 2 - compiled by Alex Candy
Label: Candyflip
Format: CD (Digipack)
Released: October, 2005
Cover: http://217.160.138.169/pic_b/cfr1cd016_b.jpg
Review:
From one of Greece's most well-known labels Candyflip, mostly known for their releases in progressive circles, comes the 2nd compilation in the chilled out "Mountain High" series - compiled by the label-manager Alex Candy. The first chapter contained 11 tracks from artists like Vibrasphere, J.Viewz, Aes Dana, Nada, Solar Fields and Cell, and on the 2nd chapter Cell, Kick Bong, Aes Dana and Solar Field return - in addition to a bunch of newer artists.
01. Cell – The Gate
French Alex Scheffer, better known as Cell, has in a few years established himself as one of the most sought after psychedelic chillout acts, with his easily digestible form of ethnic influenced chillout. "The Gate" is pretty close to his usual formula, and it works like a charm - very deep and engaging atmosphere, with a slightly mysterious touch to it. One of my favourite tracks from him.
02. Max Maxwell & TKY - Twilight
Max Maxwell, known from releases on labels like Ceiba, Com.Pact and Zulu Lounge, team up with the Agitato-regular TKY on "Twilight". Another ethnic psychillout tune with fine male and female vocals, sweet piano melodies and some slightly shrill synths. Kind of nice but nothing more.
03. Kick Bong – Way Of Life
The French Franck Jousselin, better know under his Kick Bong project, with releases on labels like Spirit Zone and Peak, as well as an album on Ultra Vista, is up next with "Way Of Life". A uplifting, yet kind of melancholic tune with a beautiful vocal heavy on fx. It's slowly paced, but has a very catchy and bassheavy groove that will surely get people dancing in the chillout.
04. Lideres Band – Close (Chill Mix feat. Bede)
Lideres Band is a quite new trio from Barcelona, Spain (actually this is their first release), but it shines as a really impressive piece of work, and certainly not as something coming from newcomers. It has a laidback, funky feel, and with a nice dynamic touch with real instruments like strings and flutes. Very positive track.
05. Max Maxwell - Isha
The Kiwi Max Maxwell continue with his 2nd track on the compilation, "Isha", and once again it's a very ethnic tune with male and female vocals (which, in this case did get slightly on my nerves), although this time more energetic. Fine track, although it doesn't really stand out.
06. Lideres Band – Secrets Of The Truth
"Secrets Of The Truth" is the 2nd contribution by the Spanish trio Lideres Band, and it's quite different compared to the first one. Not quite as organic and chilled, but with a more upbeat feel, and sweet piano-melodies. Good tune, but doesn't quite live up to the first one.
07. Kick Bong - Ballad
"Ballad" continue where Kick Bongs first track "Way Of Life" left of - in danceable 4/4 chillout territory. "Ballad" has some distinct samba-influences, and the mood is uplifting, yet with quite mysterious undertones in forms of dark pads and gloomy vocals. Not quite as good as "Way Of Life", but a good tune overall.
08. I.X.Ω.P. - Forever
I don't know much about I.X.Ω.P., apart from the fact that it's a one-man project from Greece, and that he also appeared on Ibogas first "Floating Point" compilation a few years back. "Forever" is a quite enjoyable tune, with an atmosphere reminding me of walking through an oriental market, yet with a quite digital touch. The "Lord Of The Ring" sample seemed misplaced though.
09. Lideres Band – Duende (feat. Bede)
With 3 appearances the new Spanish trio Lideres Band certainly made a huge impact on this release. "Duende" is darker and more jazzy than their first two inputs though, but still, mainly use to the dominant use of real instruments, with a very organic touch. Not up there with "Close", but certainly has it's place on this release.
10. Aes Dana - Bam
Frances Aes Dana is one of the most well-respected acts in the psychedelic chillout-scene today, and "Bam" is indeed another great creation from him. It has a dark and mysterious atmosphere, and slowly raises in intensity, peaking with some amazing drones and deep 4/4 beats. Exquisite track.
11. Solar Fields – Good Times
Last but not least Swedens Magnus Birgersson close the compilation as Solar Fields with the track "Good Times". The sound is very ambient-trance'ish with absolutely beautiful yet simple guitar-melodies and stunning uplifting pads. A marvellous end to the compilation, and the kind of tune you'll wish to hear in the chillout when the sun is rising.
Bottom line:
First things first: "Mountain High 2" is a good release, containing mostly the delightful ethnic psychillout you hear at all festivals nowadays, and gloomier and deeper soundscapes. The flow is really nice, and it's obvious that a lot of thought went into it. It doesn't quite live up to its predecessor though - where the 1st chapter had a very high overall quality, and some truly amazing tracks in the bunch, this CD is more on the average, good-but-not-great side, with only a couple of tracks of spectacular quality.
So overall a chillout compilation well above the average standard - not a classic release, but certainly well worth the money.
Favourites:
1 (!!), 3, 4, 10 (!!) 11 (!!)
Verdict:
7/10
Link:
Candyflip Records: http://www.candyflip-records.com
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Yeah, the quality of reviews has definitely improved a lot in the last couple of years. It's a joy to read some of the spectacular in-depth reviews by people like you and GaySatanicHippie - and of course I'm signed up to Damions hilarious weekly dose of psyreviews as well
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All full on? Can't agree with that statement. Take for instance the top3 pics for album of the year: Jaïa, Shpongle and Ticon. The best CD-single is Sub6's "7th Son" remixes (all progressive), the best DJ is D-Nox, the best new label is Tribal Vision, and the best vinyl + the best track is Beckers' "Switch".
Did you even bother to look at the results before posting?
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Artist: Various
Title: Joyride – compiled by Stratus
Label: Candyflip
Format: CD (Digipack)
Released: January, 2006 (December, 2005 in Japan)
Review:
After 3 years, Candyflip is certainly among the most well-known Greece labels on the scene, releasing a wide variety of releases, ranging from progressive psytrance compilations and albums from artists like 12 Moons, Wizzy Noise and Tegma, as well as chillout compilations and albums from artists like Kukan Dub Lagan and Healer. The new compilation "Joyride" is a move into the more club-oriented territory though, compiled by Stratos and consisting of a few 12"-rereleases and a handful ofexclusive tracks from some of the scenes biggest progressive house/progressive psy crossover names at the moment – and a few up-coming artists from the Candyflip roster.
01. James Monro - Locked In [128 BPM]
Opening the compilation in style is James Monro – former label-manager of the late Flying Rhino Records, and one of the worlds most sought after psychedelic DJ's. "Locked In" is a bit different from what I expecting, starting as a very strong breaks-tune, heavy on pads and with an epic big-room sound. The tune slowly rises in intensity, before going into more standard 4/4 territory in the last couple of minutes. Very solid opener.
02. FREq Vs. B.Hartless - Even & Odd (Antix Remix) [125 BPM]
Antix continue with a remix of "Even & Odd", originally made by FREq and his fellow kiwi friend B.Hartless (Ben Hartley). The sound is to be found somewhere between the dark, melancholic atmosphere of "Lull" and the housey grooves of "Twin Coast Discovery". A fine track: Not as impressive as some of Antix's best creations, but some of the people complaining about "Twin Coast Discovery" being too commercial, will probably like this more.
03. Gio Red - Blue Shape [130 BPM]
Giorgos Kokkinos from Drone is up next with his solo project Gio Red - one of the Candyflips new hopes for the future. "Blue Shape" is pretty close to the style in the last Drone album "23 Days", meaning deep, tribal progressive house/trance crossover – definitely likeable. What I didn't like so much, was a male vocal-sample repeated way too many times in the last half of the track. Slightly annoying, and certainly drag down on my overall opinion about the track.
04. Drone – The Last Score [130 BPM]
Gio Red team up with his Drone-partner Dimitris Magglaris on "The Last Score". The electro-inspired intro is actually a quite promising, but the rest of the track is destroyed by a very weak, accented, and way too dominant male vocal. I have liked a lot of Drones music in the past, and it's not that I per definition dislike vocals in music, but to me this just wasn't enjoyable at all. By far the weakest track on the compilation.
05. Motion - Hesitation [128 BPM]
The French Vincent Courcot from Tetraktys and Solead do a noticeably better job than Drone with the vocals in "Hesitation", released under his housey solo project Motion. The rough, yet sexy groove sounds a bit like Infusion, and some heavily reverbed stabs and bells give the track a very trancy touch. Definitely a very enjoyable tune, although not the best from Motion.
06. D-Nox & Beckers - My Number One (True To Nature Remix) [132 BPM]
Up next is the Danish duo Tom Von Rosen and Jokke, better known as True To Nature, with one of their interpretations of one of D-Nox & Beckers' biggest floorhits so far, "My Number One" - yep, the one with the corny Ali G sample. They haven't included that sample in this remix though, but although that was the high point of the original, I can't say I really miss it, as this is a very competent remix. Maintains the electro-sound of the original, yet not as naughty, but with a more delicate, trancy touch. Exquisite remix.
07. Atmos – Raumwelt Signal (H.Cattaneo & J. Tonks Remix) [128 BPM]
Hernan Catteneo perhaps isn't the most well-known artist in progressive psytrance circles, but on the global progressive house scene, he's at the top of the game, being in the top10 of DJ Mags list of the worlds most popular DJ's. Here he teams up with John Tonks remixing "Raumwelt Signal" - the opening-tune from Atmos' "2nd Brigade" album. The main focus of the remix is the intro from the original, and it has really been reworked to perfection, making it a true outdoor anthem.
08. Influq - Joyride [129 BPM]
Influq is the new clubbier sideproject of Wizzy Noise – undoubtedly one of Greece's biggest acts in the psytrance scene. "Joyride" is a pretty fine tune; heavily disco-flavoured, tribal beats with a super elite production level – nice to hear. The musical content doesn't quite reach the same level though, and although it's a quite enjoyable tune, I must say I didn't really connect to it – it was too empty in a way. Waiting for more Influq stuff though.
09. Flame On Fire – Vintage Strain [114 BPM]
The closing-track is from the Greek local talent Tasos Dimomeletis, whose first appearance was on the last Candyflip compilation "Levitation". "Vintage Strain" is, like the opening track by James Monro, a change from the 4/4 stuff – a breaks-tune, where the arpeggiator-melody sounds a lot like the one in Holm & Andersens "Cityrain". The sound is very electronic, with a tight beat making it just a bit too aggressive for a downbeat set, yet not strong enough for the dancefloors. Quite closure though.
Bottom line:
For most part "Joyride" is a great compilation. The flow is quite good, and there's a great deal of diversity, with a sound ranging from progressive house/trance crossover to breaks and a hint of electro – and some of the track are really spectacular. Where some of the tracks are great, others sadly disappoint though, with the Drone-track as the ultimate lowpoint on the compilation for me.
So overall it's a good release. It could have been amazing, but there's still a considerable amount of high quality tunes, making it a recommended tool for the progressive CDJ's.
Favourites:
1 (!!), 2, 5, 6 (!!), 7 (!!)
Verdict:
7/10
Link:
Candyflip Records: http://www.candyflip-records.com
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Lineup has just been updated.
LIVE Trance Stages:
Absolum - 3D-Vison
Ajja - Peak
Alternative control - Spun
Andromeda - Milenium
Antidote - GBU Recs
Apex - Peak
Astrix - Hommega
Atmos - SpiralTrax
AtomicPulse - B.N.E.
Azak Syndrom - 3D-Vison
Bon - Digital Psionics
CPU - 3D-Vison
CCL - Doof
ChemicalDrive - Utopia
Chromosome - Milenium
Deedrah - Spun
DeeperInZen - Solar
Digital Talk - Acidance
Dissosiative - Acidance
DMMT - Free Fall
Domestic - Hommega
Double Impact
D-Tek - Maia
Echoteck - Timestech
Eraser Vs Yojalka - Exogenic/Sonic-dragon
Eskimo - Phantasm
Etnica - Etnicanet
EVP - Wild things
Fatali - B.N.E.
Fungus Funk - Acidance
GMS - Spun
Grapes Of Wrath - Parvati
Hallucinogen - Twisted
Haltya - Exogenic
Hilight Tribe - Kosmik Hoboes Rec
Hux Flux - Spiral Trax
Hydrophonic - Nano
Hyperfrequncies - Mechanik Records / Acidance
Ibojima - Spliff
Infected Mushroom - Hommega
InnerAction - Procion
Jellyheads - Trishula
Kindzaza - Parvaty
Kiwa - Exogenic
Lani - Kairoo
Lish - Compact
Loopus in Fabula - Loopus in fabula
Lunaspice - Bus
Mekkanikka - Spirit Zone
Menog - Spectralrecords/PlanetBen/Timecode
Midimilz - Boshkebeats
Naked Tourist - Parvati
Neuromotor - Acidance
Ocelot - Drop Out
Oforia - B.N.E.
Para HaLu - Parvati
Penta - Spectralconcept
Phatamatix - Acidance/Redcells
Phony Orphants. - Iboga
Pixel - Hommega
Popstream - Spun
Protoculture - Nano
Peaking Goddess Collective - Peak
Reality Grid - Wild things
Rinkadink - Alchemy
Shanti - Spun
Son Kite - Digital Structures
Squaremeat - Exogenic
S>Range - Spiral Trax
Star Sound Orchestra
Sub6 - Hommega
Terraformers
Texas Faggot - Exogenic
Ticon - Digital Structures
Timelock - B.N.E.
Total Eclipse
Tribal Tul - Tribal Records
Wizzy Noise - Harmonia
X-Dream - Boshkebeats
Yab Yum - Peak
Yotopia - Flow
DJ's Trance Stages:
Alex Boshke - G+ / Boshke Beats
Ans - Nano
Antaro - Spirit Zone
Anti - Spiral Trax / ACDC
Arturo - Maia
Baba D
Beauty & Beat - Synergy Tribe
Beckers - Sprout
Bog - Compact
Chris - Fullmoon
Cosmic Serpant - DMT
Dhira - Body and Mind/ Dragon Hunter
Dica - Doof
Dimitri Nakov - Spun
D-nox - Sprout / plastik park
Don Ziggy - stardustcreations
Dris Hadra - Hadra
Edoardo - Nurobiotic
Eyal - Hommega
Feio - xxxperience
Goetz - Synergy Tribe
Greg - Mandala
James Liquid - Liquid Connective
John 00 Flemming
Kemix - Psy 16
Ketamind - Doof
Kodomo
Kristian - Antiworld
L'elf - TurboTrance
Arch 070 - Arche Of Alliance Project
Mars - Acidance
Mat Mushroom - Mushroom Magazine
Mindsphere - Psyturk
Moonchild - Intelligent Monkey
Mute - Saklikent
Nirmalji - Noise Poison Rcds
Zefer - Neutronix
Ozzie - Tribedelic
Pan - Etnicanet
Paul Tylor - Spun
Pena - Flow
pr0fane - Dance N Dust
Raptor - Australiens
Redax Mental - Interzone/Psytronic
Sal - Stargate
Sally Dollaly - Plastic Park
ShaneGobi - Alchemy
Slater - Tribal Vision Records
Stella Nutella - Sweden
Taka - Mother
Trip Tych - TurboTrance
Triptamine -
Universal - Saklikent
Vanja
Young - Etnicanet
Zen-g - Groove Meditation
Chillout lineup:
Bon - Digital Psionics
Deeper in Zen - Soular
Dica - Doof
Digital Mystery Tour -
DJ Kris "Elysium"
Dymons - Peak
Electrip-Dub
Flooting Grooves PearceVan - Peak
Fundeela - PeaceCenterCorp/NovaTekk
Ghost - Nano
HideyoBlackmoon
Ishq - Aleph Zero
James Liquid - Liquid
Jon - SangitaSounds
Liese - Mushroom Magazine
Mauxuam
Michele Adamson - Spun
Mouss
Nova - Ultimea/Antiworld
Peaking Goddess Collective - Peak
PKS - Chill Tribe
pr0fane - Dance N Dust
Ramses - Mad Hatter
Serra
Shahar - Aleph Zero
Shulman - Aleph Zero
Simon Spongle - Twisted
Slater - Tribal Vision
Soul Surfer - Millenium
Sundara
Tajmahal - ElectrikDream/Ultimea
Tripple Distilled - Boshke Beat/ G+
Vanja
Vataff - Vataff Project
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Yeah, move to general
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Artist: Various
Title: Lift Off - A Journey Into Psychedelia - compiled by Diogo
Label: Hyperflow
Format: CD (Jewelcase with standard 4-page inlay)
Released: December, 2005
Review:
After 5 years with progressive psytrance as the primary focus, the Portuguese label Flow Records, has entered a new era. While the main label Flow Records continue as before with Pena behind the wheel, two side labels has been opened: Flow Vinyl for progressive house releases on vinyl, and Hyperflow with psychedelic full on releases, with Pena collaborating with Diogo Gomes - also known as label-manager for the progressive house/trance label Feed Me Records.
The compilation "Lift Off" is the first release on Hyperflow, containing 9 tracks compiled by Diogo - tracks from both well-established artists, and a few upcoming producers.
01. Broken Toy - Uh Oh [144 BPM]
First track is from the South African artist Broken Toy, who previously this year released his debut album on Alchemy Records. The ICQ-inspired "Uh Oh" is another quite good tune from him, starting with some slightly corny ICQ-sounds and bouncy bassline, before kicking in with a mean, full-throttle pounding bassline in the middle section. Fine, joyful daytime track - although not the best from the Broken Toy.
02. Basic - Basic Technologies [145 BPM]
Basic is a rather new duo from Israel, with one of the members previously being involved in the duo Diablo. "Basic Technologies" is their 3rd release, and has a very bright and morning-oriented sound. The sound is also rather cheap and plastic-sounding to my ears though, it has a quite annoying repeated voice-sample, and I must say it didn't leave a big impression overall. One of the weaker tracks on the compilation.
03. Elec3 - Exchange [145 BPM]
Roman Brisker and Igal Magitman from Israel are starting to get noticed in the progressive house and trance circuits, but in the psytrance scene they are wider known under the name Elec3. Here they are featured with "Exchange", which is quite groovy (actually the groove is very similar to the one in their "Lost Souls" house-tune released on Digital Oracle earlier this year - pitched up to 145 BPM of course), yet still with a very energetic drive. Nice dance floor track.
04. ManMadeMan - Cromatic (2005 Edit) [145 BPM]
The UK duo ManMadeMan has been around almost since the beginning of the psychedelic trance scene, but I can't say it's an act that ever really appealed to me. The 2005 edit of "Cromatic" is an ok track though - it doesn't sound too generic, and contains a nice mix of the dark and the light; on one hand it's quite twisted, with noisy aggressive synths, but on the other hand bright pads and subtle uplifting melodies bring a hint of sunshine.
05. Bio-Tonic - Just A Dream (Black Series Pt2) [146 BPM]
With 3 album-releases on Solstice records, Bio-Tonic is definitely among the most prominent French acts on the psytrance scene. "Just A Dream" is apparently the 2nd track in their "Black Series", but I didn't find anything black about it to be honest - it's pure morning stuff, catchy, yet maybe a bit too heavy on voice-samples. Ok track, but doesn't really stand out in my opinion.
06. Aphid Moon - Protocol [145 BPM]
Aphid Moon was the man behind one of the most pleasant surprises on the full on scene for me this year, the album "Global Culture" released on Nano. "Protocol" is another great track from him, consisting of some really tasty and uplifting pads, some well-chosen, though overused "I, Robot" samples, and a really dance floor pleasing drive. Good stuff.
07. Man With No Name - String Theory [143 BPM]
The legendary Martin Freeland aka Man With No Name is up next with my personal highlight on the compilation. "String Theory" is basically your everyday Man With No Name track - an epic, engaging highly atmospheric tune with a totally relentless, straightforward drive, as this is completely devoid of those disturbing breaks every 30 seconds we've come accustomed to in modern full on. This is pure high energy trance - marvellous.
08. Rinkadink And Mike Modular - Blacklight Star [145 BPM]
The wacko South African producer Rinkadink teams up with his countryman Mike Modular on "Blacklight Star". It's a bit more pumping than the last few tracks I've heard from him, with less focus on the funk and humour, and more on the rolling bassline and energetic leads. It's still a great track though, and still has that liberating and not-to-serious Rinkadink touch, which, to me, is one of the strong points of his music.
09. Dizzy Mind – Scream For More [145 BPM]
The final track is from one of Brazils most promising young talents, Dizzy Mind, and with releases on labels like Spun, TIP.World and Mind Control Records, he has already achieved more than most Israeli teenagers can only dream about. "Scream For More" has a very Spun-influenced sound to me, meaning cheesy "hands-in-the-air" hardtrance-like leads, which might go down well on a dancefloor, but doesn't really appeal to me. I also think the overused "Fight Club" samples where unnecessary, and overall the track didn't do much to me.
Bottom line:
With "Lift Off", Flows entry will surely be noticed by a lot on the full on scene. Like most of the releases on the flooded market at the moment, it's overall quite morning oriented, but the general quality of the tunes inside isn't as mediocre as the general market standard. For home listeners it's a fine release, but like most full on releases, it has better use on the dance floor, where it will surely be used by plenty of DJ's in the coming months.
Good release overall, yet it doesn't quite reach the same level as the best releases from labels like Nano, Neurobiotic, Exposure and Alchemy.
Favourites:
1, 3, 6 (!), 7 (!!), 8
Verdict:
7/10
Link:
Hyperflow Records: http://www.hyperflowrecords.com
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Artist: Various
Title: Soul Glider - compiled by DJ SO
Label: Aqua Recordings (Groove Zone sidelabel)
Format: CD (Double Digipack)
Released: December, 2005 in Japan (I don't know about the worldwide releasedate)
Review:
The Japanese progressive label Groove Zone recently launched their new sidelabel Aqua Recordings with the release of the OMB album "Flying Over Tokyo". The 2nd release from Aqua Recordings is a compilation compiled by the well-respected Japanese DJ SO - A DJ also signed on the German Plusquam records, and with bookings on some of the most important events worldwide, from VooV Experience in Germany to Rainbow Serpent in Australia - and of course all the major events in his home country.
The CD contains 8 tracks - all of them are previously released on vinyls or mp3 by labels like Vapour, Sprout, Proton and Fokused.
01. Fitalic - Fields Of Motion [129 BPM]
First track is a rather old release by the Robbin Fitter, also known as Fitalic. "Fields Of Motion" was originally released on Pangea UK back in 2004, but it doesn't sound dated at all; it has the usual upbeat Fitalic groove, but the atmosphere is a bit deeper and more simplistic than I've come accustomed to from the Dutch producer - a deep and delicious tune, with a sound to be found somewhere between progressive house and tech house.
02. Formulate - Abbreviated Funk [128 BPM]
Formulate is, to me, a completely unknown artist with the name Justin Humber, so "Abbreviated Funk" is my first encounter with his sound. The groove is fine, but maybe has a bit too lazy or grumpy feel, and although some of the slightly uplifting melodies work fine, I can't see any real development in the track - it's over 10 minutes, and that's too long for a track that didn't really catch my attention.
03. Minilogue - Little Sisters [127 BPM]
Like everybody probably knows by now, Minilogue is the alternative sideproject of the Swedish Son Kite duo. "Little Sisters" is a re-release from Sprout records (and was also previously released on CD on Plastik Park), and it's surely a mighty sweet track. The sound is certainly very much electro, but also contains a great deal of trancy layers, giving it a wonderful, sunny vibe. Yep, I still love this tune.
04. Baggage Handlers - Vaportrail (Chris Micali's You Win Mix) [128 BPM]
Chris Micali has slowly evolved into one of my personal favourite producers in the progressive area - especially as a remixer, where he made some outstanding reworks of tracks by artists like Space Safari, Kasey Taylor, Habersham and Hiratzka. His "You Win Mix" of the Baggage Handlers trio's "Vaportrail" is a real treat as well, with a very catchy groove and uplifting, yet never too cheesy trancy melodies. Not his best remix, but definitely enjoyable.
05. Murat Uncuoglu - Jamfull (André Absolut Remix) [130 BPM]
Murat Uncuoglu is a Turkish producer, who already appeared on a CD in the legendary "Global Underground" series. "Jamfull" is from the last release on Fokused records, and it's been remixed to perfection by the Swiss wonder André Absolut. This guy certainly has a golden touch, and the atmosphere in this remix is just out of this world; mellow, yet still quite dancefriendly, and with stunning, dreamy pads. Amazing.
06. Madoka - Drift (Roel Mix) [128 BPM]
The New York based producer Madoka's track "Drift" is up next in a remix by the young, upcoming Dutch producer Roel H. It has a quite minimal click-and-stratch groove, but the real beauty is in the strings, trancy pads and especially the fascinating female vocal. To me it feels very inspired by the sound coming out from Border Community at the moment - and that's certainly not a bad thing. Very pleasant tune.
07. D-Nox & Beckers - Day After [127 BPM]
Germany's no doubt most talked about duo at the moment, D-Nox & Beckers, is up next with a re-release from Vapour Records. "Day After" (or "The Day After" as it was originally titled) has a quite typical D-Nox & Beckers groove, although slightly more laidback than usual, and the theme seems really optimistic. A fine track, although not on par with their strongest productions.
08. Motion 040 - Timmy's Turn [128 BPM]
Last but not least we have the german upcoming talents Motion 040. "Timmy's Turn" is a super phat and funky electro groover that revolves around a modified sample of Timothy Leary's classic "Turn on, tune in, drop out" quote, which gives the track a great and definitely not to serious vibe. Quite different track, and certainly very funny - a well-chosen track to finish the compilation.
Bottom line:
DJ SO did a really good job on "Soul Glider", and the quality of the tracks on the compilation ranges from good to amazing. The sound is focused on progressive house, but is actually quite varied, containing strong elements of trance and electro. The flow also seems really well done, and although the Formulate-track didn't impress me, I guess it's SO's long experience as a DJ that shines through.
As I mentioned in the beginning, all of the tracks on the compilation have previously been released on vinyl or mp3, but all sofa listeners and the CDJ's, interested in the more club-oriented part of the progressive scene, could certainly do worse than check this out.
Favourites:
1 (!!), 3 (!!), 4, 5 (!!), 6, 7, 8
Verdict:
8/10
Links:
Aqua Recordings: http://www.aqua-recordings.com
DJ SO: http://www.djso.jp
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WoWoWowowowoW let me tall u all someting babu!!! I now DJ MeGaRaVAr for 2 huors and he is kiler babu for shure !!!! Tihs rilies is very kiler inzzzzzane and wil killlllllll soem brainssssss for shure!!!!!! God lock wiht tihs rilies babu!!! BOOOOOOM Shankar peace to all!!!!
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Artist: Various
Title: Street Art
Label: Tribal Vision
Format: CD (Jewelcase with 16-page inlay and DJ-inlay)
Released: December, 2005
Review:
In only one year and with 5 releases, Czech label Tribal Vision have already established themselves as one of the most impressive progressive labels at the moment. After a couple of more traditional psychedelic progressive releases, they are back with a new compilation focusing on the more house-influenced club-grooves – just like on the labels 2nd compilation "Lime Light", which in my opinion is the labels masterpiece so far.
Before starting on my track by track review, I would also like to mention that, like on all the other releases from Tribal Vision, the whole package just oozes with quality – the artwork is stylish, and the inlay is extensive like always, featuring background info about all the artists involved and a useful case-insert with BPM's for the DJ's. It's a joy to sit with a high quality product like this in the hands, and in my opinion more labels should follow Tribal Visions example – especially in these mp3-days, where it's essential that labels provide something extra for those who actually buy their releases.
01. Absolut & Greed – The Other Side [132 BPM]
The two Swiss masterminds André Absolut and Greed team up on the opening track "The Other Side". It starts with a relentless, crisp kick, before a phat, growling bassline is added after one minute and from then on the track just lifts and lifts. Not in the hyped up "hands in the air" way, but with a more delicate and sophisticated touch. A very solid opener for the compilation; simple, but deep and rocking as hell.
02. Rai – Let’s Dance [129 BPM]
The Czech producer Rai really got his breakthrough with the first 2 releases from Tribal Vision, which where incredibly smooth and pleasant house-groovers. "Let's Dance" definitely has a little more bite than his earlier tracks on Tribal Vision though, with a super catchy joyful groove, a hint of uplifting melodies and nice, clubby vocals. Another fine creation from this promising Czech producer.
03. D-Nox & Beckers – Jet Lag Slave [128 BPM]
2005 was really the year of D-Nox & Beckers. Beckers was the man behind one of the biggest hits of the year, "Switch", and D-Nox has further improved his status as one of the most recuested DJ's and producers on the progressive scene. "Jet Lag Slave" is a re-release from Baroque Records, and is a tight, electro-inspired funky piece of music, It doesn't contain any easily recognizable vocals like on their biggest hits, but is definitely a great tune nevertheless – rocking dancefloor material.
04. Minilogue – Spam [130 BPM]
Sebastian Mullaert and Marcus Henriksson of Son Kite fame is up next with "Spam", a tune made with their Minilogue project, and previously released on the new Swedish label Frosty music. It's a quite special tune, with electro-minimal influences in the sound, but also with definite trancy elements in the pads and melodies, while the big breakdown in the middle of the track is accompanied by a sweet, thoughtful sample. The production is of course phat as always, and this is another marvellous track by the Swedes.
05. Sonify - Sonifunk [130 BPM]
One of Israel's most hyped artists at the moment is Andy Yakolev, being involved in projects like ProSect, Sound Field and ICO. "Sonifunk" is a new track from his more club-oriented Sonify-project, and while it has a nice pounding groove, to me it definitely fails in living up to his "No More Silence" hit-collaboration with Threshold Productions. Some way it just feels way over the top (especially the aggressive MC-samples), and doesn't fit with the rest of the compilation.
06. SAN & Sebastian Moore - Inceptor [128 BPM]
SAN is one of the bigger artists in the non-psy progressive circles, and my first encounter with his sound was a fantastic remix of Lemon 8 a few years ago. On "Inceptor" he's collaborating with Sebastian Moore, and while the production seems pretty nice, I must say this track was a disappointment compared to the rest of the compilation. Not bad in any way, to me it just seemed too repetitive and lacking focus and a general "story".
07. Sonic Cube – Cloud Buster (André Absolut Remix) [128 BPM]
André Absoluts 2nd contribution to this release is his truly outstanding remix of Sonic Cubes "Cloud Buster". I already reviewed it when I received the 12"-version, and I've been playing it ever since. This track is simply a delight to hear; an ass-shaking straightforward groove sets the pace, while trancy pads, beautiful strings and a wonderful, optimistic melodic theme set the atmosphere. Hands down, this is an outstanding remix.
08. Flowjob – Life Extensions [129 BPM]
The Danish duo Flowjob perhaps isn't among the biggest progressive acts at the moment, but relatively unnoticed they have already appeared on compilations from labels like Iboga, Midijum and Tribal Vision. "Life Extensions" is another typical tune from them, somewhere between the housey tempo around 130 bpm, but still with a very psychedelic progressive theme of sounds. Very sweet and loveable, uplifting morning tune
09. Vibrasphere – Manzanilla (Jaïa Remix) [135 BPM]
Last but not least is the track that I was looking forward to the most, Jaïa's (who in my opinion made the album of the year) remix of Vibraspheres classic downbeat tune "Manzanilla". I must admit the track felt a bit awkward at first, but it has really started to grow on me – the adaptation of the memorable guitar-melody to Jaïa's crystal clear melodic trance-sound is really something special, and this track is certainly a gem.
Bottom line:
Tribal Vision did it again. While the psychedelic progressive "Inner Circle" and Meller's "Rockable" where quite good, Slater and Schwa simply do an outstanding job on their more house-oriented releases. Ok, there where a few tracks here that didn't impress me that much, but it's amazing how a label only 1 year old, can release music of such outstanding quality overall – with half of the compilation being absolute winners.
It's hard not making this sound like a promotional text, but in a time where new labels start almost daily, Tribal Vision is one of the few new labels that truly stand out. Not only with superb music, but also in being professional in almost every aspect of their release – it's labels like these that people should support by buying their releases.
For the DJ, the home listener and everyone in between, "Street Art" is one of 2005's essential releases.
Favourites:
1 (!!), 2, 3, 4 (!!), 7 (!!), 8 (!!), 9 (!!)
Verdict:
9/10
Link:
Tribal Vision Records: http://www.tribalvision.cz
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I voted for Psychedelic Tuning.
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Damion psyreviews and basilisk.
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Really enjoyed the chillout mix. Union Jacks "Water Drums" is still an incredible track
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Yeah, it's amazing. I'm definitely going to use it in a set sometime - the problem is finding a suitable crowd
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By the way, Madonnas "Justify My Love" has to be the sexiest track ever made. EVER.
i would walk into a room of kompakt minimal techno snobs and proudly proclaim my utter love and appreciation of that song 
dark stuff, but the way I want it plz
in General Psytrance
Posted
MOS (Mittelstandskinder Ohne Strom) - Meter
Spirallianz - Stereopark
... maybe