Belgian New Beat: The Compilation CD

Like many sub-genres of dance music, New Beat was created by accident when influential Belgian DJs started playing A Split Second's "Flesh" at 33 instead of 45. Over the years that followed, the style became huge in Belgium, offering a druggy and slow motion alternative to Chicago house. This four CD set, released to mark 30 years since New Beat took Belgium by storm, does a brilliant job in chronicling the influential genre. While there are some killer obscurities missing, you'll find almost everything you need within its 50-odd tracks included. This includes scene anthems, pitched-down acid workouts, chugging EBM throb-jobs and even a clutch of B-side instrumentals and wild drum tracks.