Verve Remixed 2
The sequel to 2002'sVerve Remixedfollows and improves upon the original's formula; take material from the storied vaults at Verve Records and let top DJs of the modern era have at them. Featuring an impressive roster of dance artists likeMiguel Migs,Koop, andFila Brazillia, the trick is matching DJ with jazz standard in a way that compliments both. It's a tough chore, given the classics involved and the need to do them justice. OnSarah Vaughan’s "Whatever Lola Wants,"Gotan Projectmanage the task with distinction, filtering rustic and romantic accordions through the song's lusty machinations. Astute choices are required, likeMondo Grosso’s decision to build a solid thump out of just the central melody ofArchie Shepp's "Blues For Brother George Jackson." Sometimes, the best thing to do is get out of the way;Mr. Scruff's Soul Party Mix of "Do What You Wanna" only adds some background party noise toRamsey Lewis’ ripping keyboard solo.VR2doesn't hit the mark every time, but the combinations that work accomplish what only the best dance music does--they crumble the walls between genres and encourage us all to get down together. --Matthew Cooke