(EQ/Stomp)

The mix, recast

Even as French clubland crumbles around him, Agoria’s foray into the world of Balance is all-encompassing mix that displays the sheer talent that fights on. The first disc begins as a sombre piece, with traces of digital sampling against a backdrop of reverberated vocals and warm synthesis that launch like a glass elevator into space; it’s impossible to not get lost amongst the artistry that Agoria has included into the mix. When the beats do get started, it’s as an occasional, low-tempo affair until the disc’s mid-point, when a solid minimal-tech foundation is finally built into the mix. On the swap, things get swinging far quicker, brushing across nu-jazz, indie and pop while keeping the beat on and tech percussion always within reach. The sheer scope of music on display here puts most other Balance attempts to shame; Agoria’s ability to combine all things of all genres in one cohesive piece would make him a sorcerer in certain periods of history. Of course, this remains the main drawback of the compilation - many of the intricacies and tangents are special, but they’re often interrupted by comparatively lengthy plod sessions; while acceptable in the lexicon of techno, you can’t help but think that maybe the attempts to keep things running straight has ironically derailed an otherwise supreme leftfield mix. Even so, the reach of Agoria’s musical mind as demonstrated on Balance 016 is beyond question, and on depth alone is an early contender for mix of the year.

****

SCOTTY HARMS

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