Search - Nils Hess :: London to Ibiza: Roadtrip 2001

Deeper tech-house, a sound that works quite well

Richard Diaz | 04/04/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Since Nils Hess and his Eukahouse/Eukatech labels put out a disc every three months or so, it's hard to get too worked up over any particular title; inevitably they'll share similar artists and tracks. Yet when you want that tech-house sound (2/3 speed techno with a dollop of warmth and soul), they probably deliver the most consistent output around. London to Ibiza is a deeper take on the Euka sound, Hess's proof that tech-house can stretch to fit other moods. There's equal measures of sullen, swooshy synth numbers ("Angel Dust, "Communication to None"), some lively, swooshy synth numbers ("The Key"), and bass-heavy, swooshy - you know. Similarities aside, quality control here is rather high, with enough tricks to keep your brain engaged. "Lovely Flight" and "That Music," for example, work in sly vocal samples to fine effect. The only stumbles are Hess's own, the grating "Moving On" and "Talibujoua." Surprising, as he's one of the best producers in the field.But Ibiza-material? Just possibly. An hour of uncompromisingly hypnotic beats proves irresistible, and you'll be ready for sleep long before the music stops."