Elemental Chill 4: Water
Assuming that the world really needs another "chill" compilation, this fourth album in theElemental Chillseries offers a solid mix to accompany the late-night cocktail of your choice. In keeping with the first three volumes, the collection's title refers to an element: water, in this case. It's a suitable reference given the liquid nature of transitions like the one that joinsNuspirit Helsinki's "Orso" with "L'Energie Irradiait" byMum(not to be confused with Iceland'sMúm). Other highlights includeNicola Conte's Soft Samba Strings remix of Montefiori Cocktail's "Sofisticata," Kyoto Jazz Massive's "Eclipse," and the loose, acoustic rhythms ofMo' Horizons's "Bar Rumba." If you can squeeze room into your collection for another new-blue mix, complete with all the lounge clichés, downtempo dreaminess, and occasional surprises you've come to expect, thenElemental Chill, Volume 4should satisfy.--Matthew Cooke