808 STATE レコード& CD

Review: For those that don't know, Ex:El was the third LP by British electronic pioneers 808 State released in 1991. The album features guest vocalists such as New Order's Bernard Sumner on "Spanish Heart' and Bjork on "Qmart" and "Ooops" which would result in the Icelandic singer having a continued working relationship with Graham Massey over the years. Their teaming up with figures of the alternative music scene of the time started a trend that many other electronic music groups would become to follow. Perceived by many to be one of their finest albums, this one will be a welcome edition to any 808 State fans collection on vinyl.

Review: With Lone currently being feted by all for channelling the best of 808 State in his recent output, this reissue of some of the Manchester band's rave classics can be seen as timely. Whilst "Pacific State" will always remain one of their signature tracks - with its impact softened so much you can hear it bursting out of your local EAT - there's no denying the simplistic techno glee of "Narcossa", all twisting acid flourishes and skeletal 808 hits over a backdrop of menacing machine funk. Also included are the timeless Eurobass Mix of "Olympic" and future Latin techno freakout of "Reaper Repo".

Review: Here’s the long awaited 2nd Saga Of House: Serious Beats 50. After the huge success of Serious Beats 25 in 1999, Serious Beats 50 is again a 4CD with ultimate house classics. On the playlist: classic tunes, totally forgotten floorfillers, tracks that have never been compiled, rarities... Serious Beats 50 is the retrospective that covers the whole house period (from the very start of Serious Beats, early 90's) Have a look at the tracklisting of Serious Beats 50: you'll agree it's a "must have" for all dance, club lovers.