The good folks at Strut shine some light on the dancier side of iconic Manchester label Factory Records for Fac Dance. Everyone knows the label's iconic acts like Joy Division, New Order and Happy Mondays, but here we get treated to some of the lesser known bands that graced the label during the early 80's when Factory was exploring jazz funk, experimental soul, and even reggae territories. House and boogie heads will want to check the 52nd Street material, especially "Can't Afford," while Fadela's "N'Sel Fik" delivers Eastern tropical funk vibes. Did you know Factory ever took it there? You also get minimal synth goodness from Minny Pops ("Blue Roses") as well as funky synth pop from Nyam Nyam, plus post-punk on the disco side of things from A Certain Ratio on "The Fox." There's also a good dose of no wave/new wave from Biting Tongues, The Wake and Shark Vegas, as well as dub reggae from Sir Horatio. An outstanding collection compiled by Bill Brewster (author of Last Night A DJ Saved My Life and DJHistory.com founder). Recommended.

• music label: Strut 2012

reviewed by snackmaster