Renaissance Presents Transitions
John Digweed has kept busy in recent years, with everything from remix records (like last year'sFabric 20release) and Podcasts to collaborative projects with his Bedrock partner Nick Muir.Transitionsis taken from his globally syndicated radio show of the same name, and is just the first in a promised series of discs. Digger's expansive approach to dance music has led him down both light (theNorthern Exposurecollaborations with Sasha) and dark (Global Underground: Los Angeles) paths, and whileTransitionscan be sparse, it’s mostly an up trip. The beats are exceedingly solid when they kick in, scattered with the DJ’s usual patience and dance floor sense. A welcome melodicism floats in and out of the mix, as Popnonname's "On The Run" winds around a kind hook while Rocco’s "Roots 4 Acid" goes for theatrics. There’s an airy feel to the record, mostly in the texture and tinges of electro on tracks like On Spec's "Knights of Columbus" with its wiry little bassline grabber. It could use a bit more variation; the thing ends just when the vibe really starts to settle in. A 2-cd set may have worked better, but that's more quibble than criticism. Enjoy.– Matthew Cooke