TURNTABLE LAB

Diplo
Top Ranking CD

diplo and santi mix action

Just as Diplo killed it on MIA's Piracy Funds Terrorism mix that dropped before her debut, he does it again with Brooklyn's own Santogold, mixing up jams off her recent debut album. Expect to hear exclusive blends and mixes of her singles, masterfully executed by Diplo himself. The styles flow smoothly from everything under the sun: dirty south, club, classic cuts, dance tracks, dancehall, dubstep, reggae and more. What's also cool is that although she's signed to a big label like Downtown, this is a Mad Decent pressing. So props to Diplo for making this happen. Expect to hear shit from Santi (duh), XXXchange, Ratatat, Richie Spice, Three 6 Mafia, B-52's, Kid Cudi, Switch, Radioclit, Benga, Tony Matterhorn, Skream, Warrior Queen, Barrington Levy, and more. The mix is 75 minutes, perfect for the summertime jams.
reviewed by C'mish

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Paper Route Gangstaz
Fear & Loathing In Hunts Vegas (Diplo & DJ Benzi) CD - FREE WITH PURCHASE

free mixtape collabo between new southern hip-hop label and Diplo, Benzi et al

FREE with any physical purchase. Limite one per customer.

Almost a year in the making, Mad Decent brings us the long-awaited first part of their collaboration with Huntsville, Alabama-based, independent rap label Paper Route Recordz. (And that's independent, not indy, ya 'stand me?) Label founder Diplo steps up with five exclusive remixes of tracks by Money Addict, Paper Route Gangstaz, Jackie Chain and Big P.O.P.E. with Wale, plus the sick Underworld-sampling production "Stuntastic" with Blaqstarr on vocals alongside PRGz' Jhi-Ali. Oh yeah did I mention these dudes can rap their asses off? Not a bad track on here, no joke. Also includes remixes from Emynd and The Knocks. 16 tracks; 58 minutes. Highly, highly recommended.
reviewed by Van Hammersly

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all / reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / and more

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Spinbad
80s Megamix, Pt.2 CD

There are tapes like "Demolition Pumpkin Squeeze" and "Reconstruction" that I rocked in my walkman a few times, and they're dope and everything, but the first tape that made me geek the fuck out and listen to it so much that I memorized the intros and could recite the tracklisting was this. If you haven't heard this infamous 80s Megamix, then consider yourself ignorant and cop it now. Spinbad developed and maintained his name on the battle circuit, then toured for Moby, and is now holding it down weekly on Power 105, but it was his always-sells-out-in-the-first-week tapes like this that have been bootlegged, burned and dubbed a million times over that cemented the man's reputation as the 10-track mixtape king. Back when mash-up was just a stupid idea and the concept of 80s revival was laughable, Spinbad was there doubling "Take On Me" while cutting in his trademark flawless rhythm scratching style. In 72 minutes, you get 40 quick-mixed tracks that are put over the top with tons of movie dialogue bits, brilliantly arranged interludes, and remixes that will forever ruin these songs for you (I still can't listen to "Roxanne" without hearing Spin doubling the chorus). Did I mention that the this is also funny as hell and only nine bucks?
reviewed by the Woodman

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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The Rub
It's The Motherfucking Remix #2 CD

Headed by the three man crew of Ayres, Eleven & Cosmo Baker, the Rub guys are back with an even bigger cast of friends and a wider range of remixes for the part two of their idea of a remix album. The first volume was one of our best selling cds of the last year (still going strong), so you guys should already know the deal with this. While there's a healthy amount of pure party material here, the selection goes well beyond the drunken kingdom of knee-jerk mashup, featuring original remixes (check Paul Nice's work on "Devil's Pie"), stuff that won't necessarily work in the club but sounds great (Dead Prez over "Cadillac On 22s"!), strange experimentation, etc. Includes remixes by the above mentioned plus A-Trak, Diplo, Low Budget, Mark Ronson, Nick Catchdubs, Max Glazer, DJ Platurn, Crooked, and Brendan Bring Em. 27 tracks, recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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The Rub
It's The Motherfucking Remix #1 CD

DJ Ayres' Brooklyn-based Rub party has turned into one of the longest running and most successful nyc club nights, garnering best club night awards in the local press and featuring top guest djs. For this project, Ayres gathered remixes from the Rub's resident DJs and some of those guests, giving you access to their "secret weapon" sure shot club blends (previously personal CDRs). Key contributions come from Mark Ronson, Diplo, Ayres himself, Cosmo Baker, Eleven, Zeph, DJ Crooked, and others. There's an excellent variation of material with "weird" mixes like Breeders vs. Rah Digga(1), Outkast vs. Franz Ferdinand(2), and "Got It Twisted" vs Ghostbusters(3) to nyc-style straight hip-hop blends like "Stunt 101" over Wu-Tang beats(4), "Bonnie & Clyde 03" vs. Arrested Development(5), and "Oh Sheila" vs the Coolie Dance(6). The 20 tracks plus are mixed by DJ Ayres, and ends up sounding a lot like the tronix kids (in a good way). In addition, each remix is tracked to appear in its entirety for all you CD DJs who actually want to use this for your gigs.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Gaslamp Killer
I Spit On Your Grave (Obey) CD

Finally, the highly anticipicated new mix from the Lab's dirty beat digger Gaslamp Killer! This is his third official mix and I'll have to say, it's a mind ringer. You should know his style by now - dark, swampy funk, with murderous drums and sounds from beyond. Heavy beat brother Kutmah also jumps in on the action, for a straight hour of neck breaking evil breaks. If you're into that late 90's deep funk, eerie Mowax cuts, and spaced out instrumentals, look no further. Tracklist? Sorry, the Killer's M.O. is always a barrage attack, leaving no clues at the scene(I can only name the Flying Lotus and DJ Vadim's Motion Man "Terrorist" instrumental). Definitely something to enjoy while blasted on good headphones. Also, the sick artwork by Shepard Fairey makes GLK look as twisted as ever. Super recommended for the true beat fiend.
reviewed by C'mish

file under:
reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / all / dance - lab recommended

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DJ Benzi, DJ Rashad & Chi Boogie
Juke Jams (Unmixed & DJ Friendly) CD

LAB EXCLUSIVO! 300 copies only! Holy chit, could this be any more perfect for the Lab? Not only is it wall-to-wall juke, but it's also totally unmixed and Serato-ready, plus the title is a pun on an office favorite (Jock Jams megamix anyone?) and the artwork's got plenty of curves. DJ Benzi has this shit down to a science - this time, he brings us 18 DJ-friendly juke edits from his Chi-town cousins, Chi Boogie and DJ Rashad, aka the Ghetto Teknitianz. You can tell these guys are Chicago natives 'cause the juke is strong within them, and it's no problem for them to flip any track large or small into some hype shit for the dancefloor - all at exactly 160bpm. The remix of Kanye West's "Flashing Lights(1)" is especially sick, putting those jacking house keys back into context and double-timing that hazy female vocal sample. Gucci Mane's "Pillz(2)' was always awesome, but I could never find the right time to drop it in a set - Rashad and Chi solve that problem with their sick edit. I could really footnote every track here, but just check these for yourself: T.I.'s "Top Back(3)," Soulja Boy's "Crank Dat(4)," Sean Kingston's "Beautiful Girls(5)," Project Pat's "Good Googly Moogly(6)," Lloyd's "Get It Shawty(7)" and "Yo Hips, Yo Thighs(8)," a nasty remix of 50 and Justin Timberlake's "Ayo Technology." 19 tracks; over 1 hour total. Highly recommended.
reviewed by Larri Byrd

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Brazilian Beat
Baile Funk, Vol.1 CD

There's a party I go to sometimes where all these gorgeous Brazilian women are packed into this little spot, dancing to tune after tune of incredible music that I have never heard before. I mean, no party filler, no hits you've heard a million times, just a world of great music that happens to originate in the southern hemisphere planet of Brazil. This mix CD was put together by the three DJs who select the songs for the night, Sean Marquand, Claudio Medusa and Greg Caz, who some might know from his contributions to the TTL review crew, and I can vouch that it's a fair representation of how they get down (...if anything about this set can be called fair, I mean it's really un-fair to tantalize me with these great records I have no chance of finding). The mix eschews pure samba and batucada to focus on fierce sweet and sour melodies and funky orchestrations that groove for days. This is the kind of stuff you wish would make a comp but never does. Records you might find if you dug hardcore in Sao Paulo. OK, I've heard of Gilberto Gil, Azymuth and Tim Maia. You seen their Brazilian releases around anywhere though? Didn't think so. How about Trio Esperanca(1)? Maybe Os Diagonais(2)? Uh huh, now you're getting the picture: these are special records. The disc flows like sugar from a diner dispenser, right from Cassiano's Mayfield-esque opening cut(3) through to a Tim Maia jam that bumps like Cutie Pie(4). Breakheads check out Carlos Dafe's offering(5). Blends are unobtrusive and right on, letting the songs breath. I like this CD a lot. And the party? Well you're going to have to get the CD for that info.
reviewed by monk

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Brazilian Beat
Baile Funk, Vol.2 CD

They've done it again! Greg Caz and Sean Marquand, resident selectors at the great Brazilian Beat party and two of NYC's top spinners of South America's sexiest soul, have put together the long anticipated sequel to their necessary Baile Funk mix. There's no weak spots in this collection of searing hot Brazilian funk, and in fact, if you get the impression that these guys could go on for days with this heat, you're probably right. The mix presents a feast of hooks, beats, grooves and melodies, as well as a collector's attention to obscure b-sides and forgotten album tracks (detailed in the informative liner notes). Picking highlights is as simple as hitting the "random" button on your CD player, but I'll try to narrow things down to a couple of my favorites. Os Incriveis get things popping right from the jump with their wicked dedication to Herbie the Love Bug(1), a cut that demonstrates the fun and funky elements that remain constant throughout (and really, how could you go wrong when the Love Bug's involved?). A few minutes later the boys turn up an unusual groover from legend Claudette Soares before moving on to "A Festa(2)" by Silvio Cesar, a slinky, mesmerizing cut. Breakbeat heads will not be disappointed either. Drum master Chico Batera has you covered with "Oxossi(3);" or perhaps the Boogaloo Combo(4) is more your style. The One Way/Al Hudson-esque jam "To Parado Na Tua" and Jorge & Olivetti's "Aleluia(5)," which could be a Rodney Franklin outtake, showcase a slick '80s West Coast funk feel that rounds out the summertime vibe of the set. I'm running out of room, and I haven't even mentioned the devastating Tim Maia jam(6), Wilson Simonal's amazing Bacharach cover, or the ridiculously rare Jorge Ben and Azymuth cuts. This is a mix that anyone could enjoy, and an absolutely essential chapter for fans of Brazilian funk.
reviewed by monk

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Cosmo Baker & Scott Melker
Live At The Spotlite (New Jack Swing) CD

First off, this mixtape is THE SHIT, but I think you could've figured that out by just looking at the title. It's a full 74 minutes of classic New Jack Swing tracks, mixed by The CMB – aka The Rub's Cosmo Baker and his man Scott Melker, who you probably know from his Lab best-selling Sexual Chocolate mixtape. Anyway, yeah, do you really need to be convinced? "Rump Shaker" leads this thing off, and the boys never look back from there: "Don't Be Cruel," "Ain't Too Proud 2 Beg," "I Like It" (Dino!), "New Jack City," "Do Me," "I Want Her," "Poison," goddamn! If you need convincing, let me say one word you probably haven't heard in far too lon: "Motownphilly." Just buy it already! Here it comes... Recommended.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Ayres & Eleven
Glamorous Life #1 CD

What is the glamorous life? Is it some P. Diddy fashion show shit with flashbulbs poppin while you're showing off how many diamonds you got in your teeth? True playas know it's a state of mind - it's all about vanity and voguing, hairspray and hot pink. On this CD, white boys with flava Ayres and Eleven show their love for the worst (meaning of course best) decade, and rock you with some serious 80s R&B action. Not just memorable radio monsters like BBD, Janet Jackson and a ton of Prince-related groups, but also disco legends like Gap Band, Fonda Rae and Grace Jones who survived the transition to the 80s. Using his fancy shmancy high end Pioneer mixer, Ayres adds some light production touches (echoes, delays) and some low-key doubling to his mixes, letting most tracks play out but also cutting some short (I don't really need to hear all of "Jungle Love" anyway). The result: these two guys rip through 30 tracks and come off like a radio station without some guy telling you every 10 seconds about ladies night at Hunka Bunka in Sayerville. If you're afraid of drum machines, heavy synths, divas and catchy choruses, stay the hell away! Otherwise, get this mix and play it before a night of heavy drinking - this is some "I must beautify myself" music. By the way, Ayres spins like a robot: he doesn't move, each mix is on-point, and he insults people with requests (to their faces!).
reviewed by the Woodman

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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The Rub
The Rub Up 2CD

Damn, what to say about this one? It's pretty much automatic. The Rub's DJs Ayres & Eleven follow up their their solo reggae mixes (Sun Lovers & J.A. Goods) with this MEGA dancehall collab. Now, I thought I was up on my dancehall classics, but I feel like one of those fucking fratboys who only owns Legend when I look at the back of this CD. Even if you know a lot of the artists here, I betcha most of the tracks will be unfamiliar. 68 tunes spread over two CDs, so getting into names would be kinda foolish... but here's some anyway: Buju, Sizzla, Pinchers, Wayne Wonder, Ini Kamoze, Barrington Levy, Gregory Isaacs, Shinehead, Johnny Osbourne, Beenie Man, Super Cat, Cutty Ranks, General Degree, Spragga Benz, Shabba and lots (LOTS) more. Not to mention the Rub have stepped their duplication game up and these are two real (not CDR) discs in a jewel case... shrinkwrapped! Recommended.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Big Moe Jones
Live At RC's Place CD

From the Jones label, who brought you the head crushing classic "Chains & Black Exhaust," we now get this mix by old school Memphis dj Big Moe, live from R.C's Place. Big Moe was a former radio DJ for WJNS in Memphis and was known for playing the best in funk & soul from that region. Vaulted in somebody's house in South Memphis for over 30 years, this live concert tape was discovered in 2003. The concert was Joe Perkins & The Memphians featuring Big Moe as the dj, and he delivers a set of both common and rare unknown Memphis recordings. All these tracks are either Stax, Hi Records, or local pressings, and some of the highlights include groups like the Memphians, Wendy Rene, Gene Anderson, The Charmels, The Fabulous Caprices, Smithstonian and Transplant. No tracklisting though, so you'll have to go after that yourself. And best believe, same as with Chains & Exhaust, people in two years are gonna be scrambling both for copies of this disc, and the original cuts contained herein. A great tribute to the Memphis sound, and a valid piece of history. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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J-Rocc
Taster's Choice #3 (Classics) CD

If you haven't figured out already, J-Rocc mixes are probably the finest in the mixtape game. He's unparalleled when it comes to skills, track selection, and overall listener satisfaction. The Taster's Choice series is rather low budget in production (slim-line with a color-copied covers), but who the hell cares? This is volume three and explores J-Rocc's specialty sweet spot: old school hip-hop and classics. As expected, he absolutely destroys it with mix tricks, blends, and flow. Witness him kill doubles of Chuck Chill Out's "I'm Large" Instrumental (mental note: see if it's available on 12") or listen to him tease out the intros of "Juice" and "The Creator." He then moves into a breaks section starting off with 2 cut and paste classics from Double Dee & Steinski and Cut Chemist & Numark, followed by classics such as "Melting Pot, Let A Woman Be A Man, Tighten Up (a four minute doubled up cover version!), Honey Bee (Wu Tang samples stretched to perfection), DJ Shadow-sampled Buddy Miles break, and finally ending with some mellow comedown tracks (a wicked cover of Sunny and RAMP's "Sunshine"). 17 tracks in all. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
stones throw shop / reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Roctakon
Finding Directions CD

eclectic mix of disco, house, techno

One wise DJ once said that Roctakon is the Kenny Powers of DJing. I like to think of him as the Hank Moody of the scene. He might even have a mild case of tourette's. No one quite understands where he's coming from... or how he found himself in the most ironic situation of being one of the biggest and best club djs for bottle-service meatheads and the tramp-stamp masses. This CD is the result of this pickle... Roc quit club DJing for a minute, locked himself in his stanky LES apartment, and came up with this mix of the music he truly loves. For someone known to throwdown personalized Fatman Scoop edits and Britney jams, it's unsurprising to see that this is all about disco, house, and techno.... but even I was taken back by how hardcore it is. If you need to know more, check out the writing by Roc on the back of the CD... he gets personal. Over an hour, expertly mixed. 500 copies only, full digi-pack by PH (that's me). Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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J-Rocc
Taster's Choice #2 (Hip-Hop & Soul) CD

If you haven't figured out already, J-Rocc mixes are probably the finest in the mixtape game. He's unparalleled when it comes to skills, track selection, and overall listener satisfaction. The Taster's Choice series is rather low budget in production (slim-line with a color-copied covers), but who the hell cares? This is volume two and gets into J-Rocc's soulful hip-hop set. When he's in this mode, J-Rocc goes all-over to find his sound. Within in the first 5 selections alone, he travels from J.Rawls to Fela to Pete Rock protege INI to old school Tribe to classic J.Dilla era Slum Village. He also sprinkles in some mean soul jazz from Eddie Jefferson, Horace Silver, and Roy Ayers. Extra bonus here is that you get four J-Rocc break edits and a cool as hell Madvillain original. 16 tracks in all. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
stones throw shop / reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Second Cousins
Rush: Special Edition CD

LAB U.S. EXCLUSIVO. Limited repress of #3 in the Money Studies mix series, now in a full-size digipak. What's left to say about this one? Blu Jemz and Roger Yamaha one of the finest mixes ever to pass through the Lab, and hands down my favorite in the MS catalog. The definition of a sleeper, too - when I first started working at Lab, the Diplo and Spank Rock mixes were flying off the shelves while this one languished, people all like "what the fuck is a Blu Yamaha Rush Cousin?" But once the word got out, so did the copies and this one went OOP with the quickness. We're happy to present Rush to you again, for the edification of those who were left wondering. Enjoy. Highly recommended.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red

file under:
reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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DJ Koyote & Cuizinier
Women Respond To Bass, Vol.2 CD

When Koyote's first mix - the now-infamous Diamond Grills CD, with partner DJ Goon - dropped last year, it flew off the shelf every time we got a handful of copies in (via an NYC-living, Paris-visitng CD mule friend of Koyote's). But we got our French connection firmed up now, and Koyote's got another mega dose of bass just in time for the warm weather. Women Respond To Bass 2 is hosted by Parisian rap superstar Cuiznier (of TTC) and is laced with the same genre-hopping party vibe that made Diamond Grills such a hit. Ghettotech, Miami bass, house, Southern rap, even a little drum'n'bass - the common thread here is BASS, and lots of it. Alongside classics like "Bounce Dat Azz" and "Baby Got Back," Koyote throws down sick blends, brand new remixes ("Throw Some D's," "Chain Hang Low") and exclusive tracks from Cuizinier, TTC, DJ Nasty and more. Oh yeah, and he gets drops and daps from just about every Ghettotech legend around, so you know this shit is certified! Recommended.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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The Rub
It's The Motherfucking Remix #3 CD

volume 3 of the lauded blends & edits mix series

The Rub's Motherfucking Remix CD series is an all-time lab best seller; we've moved a motherfucking ton of these things. Now, after a three-year wait, Ayres, Cosmo, Eleven and friends are back with another installment. Volume 3 contains an absolute ton of music, blended, edited and mashed up in ways that are scientifically proven to move your ass. DJs like A-Trak, Tittsworth, Diplo, Emynd, Catchdubs, Sammy Bananas, Ross Hogg, B.Cause, Skratch Bastid, DJ Day, Matthew Africa and the Rub dudes themselves all have contributions here, with almost every genre you can think of thrown into the mix. 67 minutes total, super recommended.
reviewed by Hires

file under:
reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Brazilian Beat
Brazilian Beats Brooklyn CD

Greg Caz and Sean Marquand gone legit! After years of holding down the "vintage Brazilian" flag at their weekly Brazilian Beat party in Brooklyn, hustling their excelsior Brazilian mix cds and all sorts of other cool stuff, Mr Bongo has given them carte blanche to put together this compilation. Whereas most of these Mr Bongo's "Brazilian Beats" comps pride themselves on representing all aspects of Brazilian music, this one is focused razor sharp on the sounds that rock their party. That means strictly vintage tropicalia, samba, baile funk, and whatever other categories define that 60s and 70s sound. And being the ultra discerning music collectors & djs that they are, Greg & Sean's selection is amazing- every single track on here offers something new, ear popping and best of all, dancefloor approved. Here's some of my favorites: Os Oncriveis' "Uma Rosa Pra Dita(1)," which I've been digging ever since I heard it on one of their mix tapes, the Willy Wonka influenced Noriel Viela's "16 Toneladas (Sixteen Tons)(2)," drum crazy "Beija Flor Suite(3)" by Chalo Eduardo, Ely Camargo's girl power "Taieras(4)," Os Novos Crioulos' "Mar Afunda(5)" and Quarteto Uai's "Marcas(6)." Also check the Rita Lee (original Os Mutantes member) on "Agora E Moda(7)" and let it play for a while. Starts out sounding like some simple kitsch Brazilian disco (which, let it be clear, I would be perfectly fine with at this point), but it evolves into something that reminds me of Debbie Harry, Diana Ross and Gary Numan all the same time. Considering their track record, I'm not surprised at how good this cd is, but dudes, I am impressed. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Ayres & Tittsworth
Balmer Loosies #3 (Baltimore) CD

T&A Records is back at it with another compilation of unmixed club jams. Ayres and Tittsworth always enlist talented producers on these CDs, but the latest one looks like it was pulled directly off of the Lab bestseller list. Ayres starts things off by teaming up with the Nadastrom boys for a track called "Fired Up(1)." DJ Sega chops up one of the most classic party breaks around on "Everybody Handz Up(2)," while Tittsworth gets his own productions remixed by both Bird Peterson(3) and Sammy Bananas(4). Top Billin' gets in on the act with "Willing(5)," as does the legendary DJ Technics, who contributes his moody remix of Radiohead's "Everything In Its Right Place(6)." Also includes Ayres' remix of James Brown's "Give It Up Or Turn It Loose(7)," which was originally released as part of Gamm's JB remix collection. 16 tracks in all, definitely recommended.
reviewed by Hires

file under:
reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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J-Rocc
Syndromes, Vol.2 CD

Deluxe reissue in digi-pack! Soul Strutters and cassette heads, this will flash you back to the good ol' days. Sequel to the original Syndromes mix, where J-Rocc gets all record nerdy, applying his mix skills to a rare, sampled tracklist that includes: Phil Ranelin, Archie Whitewater, Junior Mance, Bill Withers, Electric Prunes, Lou Donaldson, Monk Higgins, Les McCann, Ramsey Lewis, Ahmad Jamal, and others digger catch phrases. And when applicable, he throws in bits of the modern sample-using track; but in a really creative manner (like scratching "Alchoholic Vibes"; into "Vibes From the Tribe"). People just don't make crafted, finessed mixes like this anymore (did they ever?). Another one for the library. RECOMMENDED.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
stones throw shop / reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Spank Rock
Fabric Live #33 CD

Ever since we put out his first 12" here at lab, Spank Rock has been making some serious power moves - Big Dada, tours, and now Fabric Live. Their mix series is as official as it gets when it comes to tastemaking in the DJ world. Although this mix isn't rare or obscure it's clear they're all about the jam. The whole crew comes out for this one: producers and DJs XXXchange, Chris Rockswell, Ronnie Darko, Tyler Pope on guitar, MC's Spankrock, Pase Rock and Amanda Blank. They take practically every hot song from last year and mix it into one killer set that's an hour plus. Check some of the selections: CSS' "Let's Make Love And Listen To DFA - Spank Rock Edit," Dominatrix's "The Dominatrix Sleeps Tonight," Zongamin's "Bongo Song," Yes' "Owner Of A Lonely Heart," Yello's "Bostitch," Para One "DunDun Dun," Simian Mobile Disco's "Huslter," Bonde Do Role's "Melo Do Tobaco - XXXchange Remix With The Ford Granada," and Gaz Nevada's "I.C. Love Affair." Although, I know practically all these cuts, I'm not really hatin' that much. For anyone that doesn't live in NY, care about music blogs and the creme de la creme of what's new, it's a sureshot. Plus they mix it so clean with Spankrock and XXXchange remixes and Spankrock and Amanda blank spittin vocals, it's hard to believe it's all done live. Recommended for drunk dancin' in the summertime.
reviewed by C'mish

file under:
reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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J-Rocc
Taster's Choice #5 CD

J-Rocc's Taster's Choice series is an underground phenomenon, you just may not know it yet. Each volume targets a different genre (previous volumes included Brazilian, classic hip-hop, dance classics etc.); and each genre gets dismantled as J does what only he can do. Number 5 (possibly the final chapter?) in the series focuses on jazz records, and it sounds as if you're sitting in J's room as he masterfully mixes his way through his favorite crates, playing records that you've never even seen before. Dictated by the genre (and probably market value), J keeps the tricky stuff to a minimum and focuses on selection, interesting transitions, and the occasional break blend. 22 tracks, ridiculously deep. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
stones throw shop / reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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DJ Soulscape
The Sound Of Seoul (Korean Funk) CD

Internet celeb Mr. Kim introduced me to this mix by Seoul's DJ Soulscape. You should pick this up on principle alone; I'd bet a Luger porterhouse that you'll won't find a mix of Korean rock, soul, disco, and boogaloo anywhere else (of this caliber too). From Korean heritage myself, this definitely reveals a side of motherland that I've never experienced. Thanks, Soulscape. Over one hour, untracked. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Gaslamp Killer
All Killer: Finders Keepers Records Mixed By The Gaslamp Killer CD

rare psych gems from the Finders Keepers catalog mixed by GLK

Who better than the motherf*ckin' GLK to tackle the insanely deep Finders Keepers catalog for a mix? Nobody, that's who! Our man Gaslamp does a seriously sick job mixing up tracks from the first 20 Finders Keepers releases. Only the rarest and most potent psych, fuzz, and folk rock from around the world gets handpicked and repressed on Finders Keepers so you can bet GLK was positively amped at the chance to dive in and do his thing... and the outcome is nothing short of masterful! Psychedelic breaks for days, spooky interludes, dubbed-out synth madness, trippy experiments in sound, plus dope scratching to boot for just about an hour to blow your mind. Includes tracks from Ersen, Vampires of Dartmoore, Sarolta Zalatnay, Bruno Spoerri, Selda, Mustafa Ozkent, and much much more.
Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Idjut Boys
Press Play CD

One of the most acclaimed and well executed compilations of 2005. The Idjut not only select an incredible, vinyl junkies' set, but they also re-edit, tweak, and customize the selections. Lab heads will dig the diverse styles ranging from the balearic disco of Lindstrom, the new school soul of Plant Life and The Rebirth, classic funk from Etta James and Cedar Walton (the latter provides a synthesizer cover of the War classic), electro from Harry Thurman, blues rock from The Willis (a hilarious cover of Cameo's "Word Up"), rock from Haircut 100, HGSOB from Kathy Diamond and Arsenal, plus several tracks from artists we've never heard of. Reminds me a bit of our original Monk's Dream mix. Super DJ bonus too, as the tracks are not fully mixed, so you can play these versions out. 17 tracks in all. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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DJ Jayceeoh
Super 7, Vol.1 (Benzi, Platurn, Eleven, Morse Code, B.Cause, Steve1der) CD

An ambitious mix concept from the BK-residing Jayceeoh, one half of The Masters who brought us last year's Ace In The Hole CD. Super 7 combines the talents of Jayceeoh with a half-dozen other forward-thinking producers/DJs from the east, west and middle bits of our great nation (most of whom we've actually carried mixes from here at das Lab). Representing Cali, we got LA's Morse Code and Steve1der, plus the Bay's Platurn (of Oakland Faders crew) and B.Cause. For NYC, there's The Rub's starting center DJ Eleven, and holding it down for Michigan is the mixtape don DJ Benzi. Each dude contributed a 10-minute megamix of their own blends, remixes, edits, etc., which Jayceeoh then wove into this 52 track, 73 minute beast. The styles are all over the place with a healthy dose of rap as the anchor - I'd list out all the artists, but with the names attached, you know you can trust their ears. Recommended.
reviewed by Van Hammersly

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Edwin 'Stats' Houghton & Jamal Ali
48 Hours In Transit CD

The Lab's own Jamal Ali and FADER contributor Edwin "Stats" Houghton (collectively, Stats & Black) team up to present us with 68 minutes of globe-trotting goodness in support of Triple 5 Soul's Subscript imprint. This mix was recorded live back in 2002, pre-Ableton days, and the disc itself comes housed in an ornate red-and-gold faux silk sleeve - real classy, just like these two gents. The diverse selections are mixed flawlessly, moving without effort between samba and rap, jazz and dancehall, etc. No info, no tracklisting, just pop the CD in and let the dudes take you on a trip. Features artists like Q-Tip, Carl Craig, D'Angelo, Metro Area, Dave Kelly, The Juan Maclean, Mos Def, Beenie Man (as remixed by Panjabi Hit Squad), Jay Dee, Sly & Robbie, Gilberto Gil... 28 tracks; 68 minutes. Recommended.
reviewed by Van Hammersly

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James Pants & Dam-Funk
Chart-Toppers (Dam-Funk) CD

import boogie + electro-soul mix

Firstly, we had to import these from overseas, thus the higher than usual retail price. With its xeroxed cover, hand stamped CDs, and unique tracklist of boogie and electro-soul gems, this is sure to be one of those sought-after Stones Throw offshoot releases. Tracks from: Johhny Burt, Clear, Thunderflash, Bobby G, Charles Earland, Silk Satin & Lace, Together Band, Antwafunk, Prophet, Ish, Dark Star, Code 3 & Smokin DJ CC, Emerson, James Pants, Bohannon, Paradise, Sybil Thomas, Firefly, Purple Gang, Second Image, Future World Orchestra, Savanna, and Software. 1 hour, recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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stones throw shop / reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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DJ O-Dub
Deep Covers #2 CD

Our old homie O-Dub back at it again! Mr. Wang keeps rolling with his "covers" obsession (see also: Deep Cover #1, Soul Sides V.2: The Covers) but this time he's taken it international with versions of everyone from Iron Butterfly to Fatback Band, from just about every corner of the planet. Can you imagine what a Polish cover of Bill Withers' "Use Me" sounds like? Or a Peruvian stab at Ballin' Jack? How about a Guyanese reggae band doing "Sweet Caroline?" If, like me, your answer to all the above is "no, but I'd like to," you need this mix in your life. O-Dub keeps it simple, tasteful and on-point with the mixing, no need for fancy wicky-wicky. (Though there is a Colombian cover of "Wicky Wacky.") 20 track mix, plus three bonus tracks from some fallen idols (Jimmy McGriff, Bo Diddley, James Brown). 71 minutes. Recommended.
reviewed by Van Hammersly

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Edan
Echo Party CD

old school disco rap, dance, and punk funk rarities mixed and freaked

Crazy fresh mixtape project from Edan for fans of old school disco rap/dance and analog effects wizardry. Edan was given access to the back catalog of classic old school labels like P&P, Chocolate Star, Magic, etc. and was asked to make something new out of it - basically whatever he wanted! The result is Echo Party, a funky dubbed-out trip through old school rarities, freaked and funked with plenty of moog, tape echo, turntables, guitar, and even kazoos. Basically Edan kills it in a major way. He even goes so far as to obsessively jot down every single detail of the mix (i.e. moog note echoed out at 0:49, sample chopped at 1:33, etc.) madman style so you can recreate the mix (yeah right buddy!). These liner notes are included in the fancy 12 page book the CD comes packaged in with original art by Edan himself. What a talented MF'er (but you already knew that)! Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

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stones throw shop / reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Matthew Africa
Hard As Fuck #4 CD

This is one of those cases where the title really says it all. Serg of Beer & Rap / So Many Shrimp enlisted one of our favorite mixtape dudes, Matthew Africa, for the fourth round in the "Hard As Fuck" series and the man from the Bay sure delivered. Matthew crams over 30 rugged (mostly) Dirty South tracks into this mix, from the likes of Project Pat, David Banner, Al Kapone, Trick Trick, Lil Jon, Grandaddy Souf, Too $hort, Geto Boys, Criminal Manne, Yo Gotti, 404 Soldierz, Jeezy, UGK and on and on. If you've heard Mr. Africa (his real name, btw) via his Kells or $hort CDs, you know this man doesn't half-step on his mixes. Bump this. Highly recommended.
reviewed by Van Hammersly

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Unabombers
Electric Chair Saved My Life CD

I had to pick up the mix of this full length mix after the 12" sampler became a surprise Lab bestseller. Electric Chair was an acclaimed party that ran for 10 years straight in Manchester, England. Helmed by the Unabombers, the party was known for its surprise guests and super-eclectic selection. Just imagine how good this mix is going to be? The best tracks from 10 years of parties? Judging by the first five tracks alone, I'm taken. The gem of the aforementioned sampler, Shut Up And Dance's "Blackmen United" sets it off, followed by a Fila Brazilia remix, going into a Larry Levan mix, into a Human League instrumental, into Metro Area... sick. And it's all seamlessly blended. The selection only gets more diverse and record nerdy... it's deep. 18 tracks, over one hour. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Mayer Hawthorne
Soul With A Hole, Vol.1 CD

rare soul nuggets mixed

First volume in the second series of Stones Throw's 45 mix CDs (the first ones were the Yo! 45 Raps by PBW & J Rocc) this time focusing on rare soul as implied by the title (Soul With A Hole). 24 rare original 45s are hand picked and mixed by Mayer Hawthorne (aka DJ Haircut) and you can bet this thing is just oozing with pure, vintage soul. If you like Mayer's contemporary productions, you're gonna love these cuts as they are the real inspiration for his sound. Includes tracks from Brothers Of Soul, Otis Leavil, Continental Four, Frankie Karl and the Dreams, Final Decisions, Sly Slick And Wicked, The Tenth Dymentions, Four Mints, The Admirations, Jimmy Clark, and others you haven't heard of before. Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

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stones throw shop / reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Peanut Butter Wolf
45 Live: A Classic Rap Mix CD

classic rap mix by Stones Throw's head honcho

Super rare old school rap vibes being served to you by Stones Throw honcho PB Wolf! Expect only the best in the killer kuts. The mix features old school legends like Fearless Four, Just-Ice, Spoonie Gee, Busy Bee, Universal Two, Sweety G, T La Rock, Mantronix, Stezo, Bug Daddy Kane, Dimples D, Marley Marl, JVC Force, and many more. Solid freaking by Wolf on the tables too - rockin' doubles, sweet mixes, etc. The insert also shows the full tracklist, with all the proper production credits, and small personal notes by PB Wolf himself. Recommended.
reviewed by C'mish

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stones throw shop / reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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DJ/rupture & Matt Shadetek
Solar Life Raft CD

quality dubstep/bass mix from Brooklyn

When two established Brooklynites like Matt Shadetek and DJ Rupture put their heads together, you can already predict the end product will be eclectic, dubby, heavy, and most excellent. On Solar Life Raft the two work out a wonderfully bass-heavy mix of original tracks and remixes (most of which this reviewer has never heard before) and the result sounds outstanding. The vibe doesn't bash you over the head with the monotonous bass either thanks cool tropical and reggae elements present in most of the selections, but when it comes time to bring it hard, the duo deliver like aces. Plenty of surprising twists and turns too, far from your average bass mix. Includes remixes of artists like Gang Gang Dance, Pumajaw, Shackleton, Jahdan Blakkamore, Telepathe, Matty G, and more. One of the better dubstep/bass mixes I've heard come through here. Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Metro Area
Fabric #43 CD

The long awaited Metro Area installment of the Fabric mix series. The NYC duo gives up all the goods here. Rather than the easy route of Environ and NYC new disco selections, they really show us what they're about, selecting the rare, novel, and unexpected. Save for a handful of tracks, the 23 tracks are mostly new to my nerdus knowledge. These guys always give it their mental all. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Izza Kizza & Nick Catchdubs
Kizzaland CD

A New Jersey transplant and product of Valdosta, GA, Izza Kizza recently signed to Timbaland's Mosley Music imprint. But before he drops the o-fish-al major label debut, he's teamed with Fool's Gold co-founder and all around good guy Nick Catchdubs for this little preview of things to come. If you haven't heard Kizza's hyperactive, stuttering rhymes, you're in for a treat - I can't really think of any reference for dude's style, it's just that unique. (Closest comparison would be those other two "eccentric" guys from Georgia, I guess...) The beats are better than your average mixtape too, mostly thanks to Kizza's NJ collaborators Souldiggaz, as well as Koolade and hyphy maestro Trackademicks. There's even a lil cameo from Missy Elliot, and a nice freestyle over a slew of Timbo beats. 19 tracks total. Recommended.
reviewed by Van Hammersly

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Optimo
In Order To Edit (R&S Classics) CD

mix of re-edits of the classic R&S catalog, techno + electronic

This is a super ambitious mix concept as Optimo edits its way through the R&S back catalog (legendary Belgian techno - rave label). Each track has been re-edited, and in some cases remixed (which is great cause some of these early techno records are unlistenable in original form). There's genre classics from Joey Beltram (Energy Flash!), Aphex Twin, Mu-Ziq, Jaydee (Plastic Dreams), CJ Bolland, and others; plus all those obscure single-only releases. Optimo has done a top notch job making the material digestible and re-shaping the sounds for modern ears. Bravo. 22 tracks, recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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DJ Soulscape
More Sound Of Seoul (Korean Funk) CD

recommended mix of rare korean rock, soul, jazz

Incredible, never thought I'd see a volume two, but Soulscape just had someone hand-deliver these from Seoul! The first volume of this Korean diggers' series sold out very quickly, and with good reason, you're not going to find this stuff anywhere else (still have my Peter Luger porterhouse bet open). Soulscape gives us a little background: "The Postwar Korean Peninsula was a melting pot where different cultures from the east and west collide. The music business grew significantly as clubs were founded around the US military bases and musicians playing for the clubs had interpreted and localized rock, jazz, soul, and boogaloo in various styles. However, such unique music was suppressed and vanished for the political interests of the military regime in the mid 70s an it still remains discontinued and underestimated." DEEP! Essential for Koreans and record heads. 40 tracks mixed, one hour, recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Phoreyez
Found In Translation CD

intricate mix of funk, hip-hop, soul

Number 15 in the Mochilla mix series. This is definitely one of my favorites from the series. Cali's Phoreyez (mixtape master, white label producer, resident of LV's Get Back party) gets super-involved here, cutting, pasting, blending, and pulling out the occasionally WTF record (what's that Indian one?). Sure to elicit many brain pop moments, this mix is intricate, balanced, and smart. DJs will love this. 52 minutes, recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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The Amorphous Androgynous
A Monstrous Psychedelic Bubble Vol.2: Pagan Love Vibrations 2CD

mind blowing psyche mix

Second helping of sublime cosmic psych to blow your mind from the Amorphous Androgynous (aka Future Sound Of London). The first volume flew of the shelves when we had it and you can expect the same with this one. This volume (subtitled "Pagan Love Vibrations") follows the same structure and formula as the first - it is a MASSIVE double disc mix, 44 tracks deep covering vintage psych and rock from the 60's to today. Artists include everyone from Hawkwind, Dzyan, Ultimate Spinach, Bo Diddley, Jean Claude Vannier, Faust, Ananda Shankar, and Grover Washington Jr. to contemporary artists like Dungen, Oasis, Holy Fuck, Bright Black Morning Light, and Animal Collective. A truly psychedelic experience that bridges gaps and breaks down the walls of time. Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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C.O.M.B.I.
Chill On My Buttas!: C.O.M.B.I. Tour 2008 CD/DVD

2008 Japan Tour DVD with a live mix CD by Eric Duncan

C.O.M.B.I.'s on a roll! Eric Duncan of the Rub N Tug crew has been quite a name for himself in NYC. He DJ's with the city's finest, presses up some of the tastiest Disco Edits which always sell out and are in high demand(a friend sold C.O.M.B.I. A/B for a $100!) and now this. This is the CD/DVD celebrating Eric's Japan Tour 2008. The CD is 1hr 20 min mix of his live set at Mugen in Hiroshima and the DVD is a 40 min video of all his tour footage(basically adventures of a disco hesher in Japan) edited by Eric featuring a live mix by KZA(who's disco rarities mix I still hold on high) and DJ Kent from Force Of Nature. For anyone wondering what being on tour in Japan might be like, now's your chance behind the scenes. Recommended.
reviewed by C'mish

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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DJ Mehdi
Red, Black & Blue: Some Remixes by DJ Mehdi CD

mix CD consisting solely of Mehdi remixes

New full length from your boy Mehdi! Well, not really... but this mix CD of remixes will have to hold you over till the next album drops (which is scheduled for sometime in 2010). For Red, Black & Blue, Ed Banger's resident hip-hop turned electro producer gives shine to some his excellent remix work by mixing the creme de la creme together in one continuous mix. Fans will recognize most of the tracks on here, but there are a few unreleased joints that get to see the light of day. Artists remixed include Holy Ghost, Chromeo, New Young Pony Club, Architecture in Helsinki, Cassius, David Rubato, Etienne De Crecy, CSS, and label head Busy P with Murs. In all it's a great listen, and truly a testament to his skills as a producer and DJ. Best thing about this fancy book-style CD package are the revealing liner notes by Mehdi chronicling his DJ/producer origins and the stories behind each and every remix. Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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Tom Noble
Liger Music Vol.1 CD

vintage boogie and funk mixed

Excellent mix CD filled with vintage boogie and disco, mixed by Tom Noble (one of the most respected rare boogie collectors out there). It's short and sweet (only 32 minutes) and the mixes are quick and clean. Features tracks from acts like JBC Band, Initials, Vernon Cheely, The Prophet and many others. Fans of PPU Records and Dam Funk will definitely dig this. Recommended.
reviewed by Hires

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reviewer recommended / reviewer reccomended / dance - lab recommended

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