audio review : LTJ Bukem and MC Conrad performing at the Electronic Beats festival in Cologne

“If you don’t know what to do,” MC Conrad suggests, “learn learn learn to boogie.” That’s easy to do at the Electronic Beats festival, especially during this gorgeous DJ set by LTJ Bukem. It’s a compilation of drum and bass tracks mostly from his Good Looking record label, but it’s Conrad’s signature vocals over the top that make it special.

The way he addresses the crowd, by shouting echoed commands to the beat, should be annoying. It isn’t. In fact, it’s exhilarating, especially when he goes from rhythmic to melodic, making the songs he’s singing over sound even better than they did as instrumentals. He also seems to be freestyling, which makes it even more impressive.

my rating : 4 of 5

2002

audio review : Aruba Prelude ( song ) … Bass Syndicate

I don’t know what the Prelude bit is about. Perhaps you’re supposed to play this on your way to Aruba, arguably one of the most beautiful islands in the world; certainly one of the most popular tourist destinations.

The song, mysteriously described as German Musik on Bass Sound Off USA, seems to fit the occasion; the best part being the chords that start it. When they stop near the middle and at the end, the quality takes a deep dive.

my rating : 4 of 5

1997

a DM Records compilation : Bass Sound Off USA [ Volume 3 ]