Nu Breed 4
With this delicious double-disc investigating deep trance to the earthiest degree, Dutchman Sander Kleinenberg proves himself a rare and true gem in the ever-expanding world of DJs and producers. Every track he touches becomes imbued with an expert's sense of love and levity. But the real excitement here is supplied by Kleinenberg's ear for music. Subsequently, his track selection is never anything less than genuinely enthralling: Mike Vandenberg's "Spooky," a scintillating update onHarold Faltermayer; Virtuoso's almost tantric blast of energy, "Stay With Me;" and his own eerie Moroder-esque twister, "Hidden Agenda." Kleinenberg's enthusiastic energy on this seamless mix of trance, techno, and funky house also subtly complements the mood of the music. Witness the way Audiomontage's "Fly Baby" cruises before slipping into the fast lane withEast West Connection's punchy dance-floor motions on "Once I've Been There," or even the gleefully assaultive partnership of Marc O'Tools's "Stauffenberg" and Pariah's "Keep the Peace." Everyone knows names likeNick WarrenandJohn Digweed, but this guy is only just scratching the surface of mainstream fame. Buy this set, give him a year, and know that Sander Kleinenberg will be one of the world's top DJs.--Steffan Chirazi