Search - Mixed by DJ Mike Traylor :: American DJ Volume 3: Boston

Third time does it, a smart mix of breaks and techno

Richard Diaz | 07/29/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"There's not enough breakbeat in dance music, fact. Here's proof of what you're missing, progressive sounds with some gritty funk and heavy beats mixed all the way live from Mike Traylor. Just try the opening opus "Daft Funk" by General Midi and the dirty bass of Blim & Katie. Check that, the next two are better: the underground sound of Japanese ambient producer Susumu Yokota are given a major re-rub by Si Begg, segueing to the smart groove cut "Starkiller" by Lunn & Latham. Ramping up to faster BPM and Timo Maas-style techno shows deft arrangement, locked in all the way through sharp closers by John Selway and Junkie XL. Only a tasteless piece by A2 mars the set, though let's also hope the near-mandatory inclusion of a big "whoosh, wub-wub" tune in every mix these days ("Dooms' Night", "Sputnik", and here, "Spaced Invader") fast approaches the expiration date. After two volumes so far of chart-topper roundups, it's good to see a different direction taken in the American DJs series. Volume 03, Boston, fills a void for those seeking a bit more sizzle in their sounds."

Buy this! Good underground mix....

Nick | New York | 06/27/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Opening with the twisted nu-skool of General Midi's "Daft Funk"
and touching on sexy techfunk, tough house, and even techno, this is a good cd for someone who likes variety in their electronic beats. Traylor did an excellent job of selecting tracks that don't get old after repeated listens, this is one of my most-listened to dj albums. All the tracks have a certain dark sexiness to them while staying funky. If you like Meat Katie, James Lavelle, or even Digweed, check this out."