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Various Artists - Kodama (Plusquam, February 2006)
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pr0fane
Multiphase
Started Topics :
418
Posts :
3816
Posted : Feb 20, 2006 17:18
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Artist: Various
Title: Kodama // Compiled by DJ SO
Label: Plusquam
Format: CD (Jewelcase with standard 4-page inlay)
Released: February, 2006
Cover: http://217.160.138.169/pic_b/plu1cd111_b.jpg
Review:
What originally started out as a progressive sidelabel for one of the biggest labels in psytrance history, Spirit Zone, is now considered one of the most important labels on the progressive psytrance scene. I am of course talking about the German-based Plusquam Records, a label who over the years has released a long list of compilations and albums with artists like Haldolium, Timetech. Buzzmonx, Hopefiend (Mark Allen) and Auricular.
Their newest release is the compilation "Kodama", compiled by the Japanese DJ SO, who's been touring the world lately, playing at the biggest festivals in Australia, Japan and Germany, and also recently compiled a progressive house/tech-house compilation on Groove Zones sidelabel Aqua.
01. Decoy - Cat Magic [136 BPM]
First track is by the Australian duo Decoy, who also just released their debut album on Dance N Dust Records. "Cat Magic" is, in my opinion, their strongest stand-alone release so far: deep and thoughtful, with a totally relaxed and laidback groove. An utterly excellent tune for the late morning-hours or the afterparty.
02. Sensient - Dissolve [138 BPM]
Following up on Decoy is another Australian; Sensient, who is also behind the label Zenon, and he certainly kicks up the tempo a notch or two. I am not a huge fan of his creations; some of his stuff I like, and some I don't like, but this is definitely not among the worst: the sound is quite techy, with a plethora of twisted metallic effects to keep attention focused, and the energy is very high throughout. High quality dance floor stuff.
03. FREq - Sunglider [138 BPM]
Up next is FREq, another act currently living in Australia. After some mediocre releases, his productions are once again getting better and better, and while I prefer his slower productions around 130 BPM, "Sunglider" is one of my favourites of his faster productions. The sound is pretty much trademark-FREq, but it works so very well - overall this is a very uplifting and loveable track with very thematic sounds, that is bound to be played outdoors at the major festivals. Can't wait for his new album.
04. Bitmonx vs Fabio - Deep Sense [136 BPM]
Two of the German Plusquam-regulars, Bitmonx and Fabio, team up on "Deep Sense" - a quite typical Plusquam-track to be found somewhere between the deep and the joyfull, and a track which might as well could have been released a few years ago. Despite that, it doesn't sound much dated, and I can't ignore the fact that it is very catchy and likeable. Good tune.
05. Earsugar - Foretaste [135 BPM]
Earsugar is a relatively new collaboration between Martin Knecht from the Labyrinth-club, and one of the biggest surprises last year, Liquid Soul - both are from Switzerland. "Foretaste" is certainly not bad, with hints of the high quality pumping festival-sound Liquid Soul has been developing lately, and slight elements of house as well - but it failed to really leave a really big impression on me.
06. Fitalic - My Destiny [130 BPM]
"My Destiny" is made by the Dutch Robin Fitter, better known as Fitalic, with releases on labels like labels like Vapour, Bedrock, 19Box and Plastik Park. It contains the Fitalic-trademark bouncy, upbeat groove, embellished by big, phat stabs and lush pads, and is overall yet another very strong tune from him.
07. Ryan Halifax - Chocolate [130 BPM]
Ryan Halifax is up next - to be honest I haven't liked much of his releases over the years, but "Chocolate" really took me by surprise. The groove is deep and incredibly phat, and the super-uplifting choir-pads are definitely a nice touch. Ok, the "Chocolate"-samples (hence the name of the track) are maybe a bit too dominant, but overall this is one hell of a deep, housey monster. Great stuff.
08. André Absolut - Lost And Found [127 BPM]
Last but not least is "Lost And Found" by one of my absolute favourite artists at the moment, the Swiss André Absolut. The track can best be described as a slightly electro-influenced, very pleasant landing for the compilation - grooving along nicely with a quite lazy groove, sweet stabs and subtly uplifting pads. Not with as much hit-potential as so many of his later dominant tracks and remixes, but nevertheless a good track on its own.
Bottom line:
After a few slightly disappointing releases from the once so glorious label, Plusquam is really back on track with "Kodama". Compared to their later releases there is a much higher diversity, ranging from very housey grooves over more traditional german festival-progressive to slightly darker and techish beats - ensuring there's something for most progressive fans. The quality is overall pretty high - none of the tracks are downright bad, and there are a good bunch of tasty highlights.
Not an absolutely essential release, but certainly very good value for the money, and the best release from Plusquam for quite a while. Recommended.
Favourites:
1 (!!), 2, 3 (!!), 4, 6, 7, 8
Verdict:
8/10
Link:
Plusquam Records: http://www.plusquam-records.net
Read more reviews here: http://www.sunrisesupplies.com/?page_id=12
  DJ pr0fane (Iboga Records) | Multiphase
www.sunrisesupplies.com | www.iboga.dk | www.soundcloud.com/pr0fane |
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Mr.Hanky
Ace Ventura
Started Topics :
21
Posts :
1088
Posted : Feb 20, 2006 17:53
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Great review (as usual) from Profski 
i definitly agree with all your verdicts,although i do consider this an
essential release for every prog DJ...
So many blasters here,but to me the toppers on this cd are:
1.DEEP SENSE from bitmonx+fabio,a sneaky and groovy tune,no housish vibe
whatsoever but creepy crawly sounds and a swingy groove on top.Hoping for
more new stuff from this pair for sure.
2.FREq's SUNGLIDER - Every output from this man excites me, as it always has
top notch sounds and production, plus it's always psychedelic unlike many
prog artists.While this tune is not one of the best from his latest crop,its
still a freakin' FREq tune, and it rocks.It continues the tradition of solid
FREq/Nyquist tracks on the Plusquam compilations(who can forget SHORT LIFE
AGAIN on the Revive comp...his best tune to date imho).
3.Sensient's DISSOLVE,a more communicative track from the Zenon head
honcho,with a dark yet uplifting atmosphere and good sample work towards the
end.Strong tune and nice surprise on a Plusquam comp.
4.Ryan Halifax's CHOCOLATE,his pumpiest production so far,a laid back groove
but filled with an ultraphat bass.This track is pumpy halifax at his best.
5.Andre Absolut's LOST & FOUND is even more laid back, with a slower BPM
than the rest of the comp - It's a worthy ending for this cd,this one is for
ass shaking babes with a cosmopolitan in their hands !
All the rest is good stuff as well,which brings me to give a double thumbs
up for Plusquam and a solid 9/10 ! 
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aden
IsraTrance Full Member
Started Topics :
81
Posts :
212
Posted : Feb 21, 2006 19:41
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As usual, great review from Profane but I have a different opinion on this album, the artists and the plusquam releases. To my ears, the former Plusquam releases were more captivating than this one. The IM 4 compiled by Mapusa published in nov., and the Wireless were more top of the notch compilations. This one has good moments but not so many tracks seem, IMHO, essentials. My tops are the Bitmonx and Fabio, and the Ryan Halifax, a deep housey phat tune, but I still prefer the "Clementine" on the IM4. As for Freq, he is back with another good track, that makes me looking forward to listening to the new album he is preparing for Iboga. But I like his faster tracks as well as the slower ones. The ideas he develops in the latter are just different, more "psychedelic", as Mr Hanky puts it, than the slower ones, but I have hardly seen a Freq track around 130 bpm, rather 135 seems more his cruise speed. I like the collab between Liquid soul and Martin Knecht, but I still prefer the liquid soul project, when his melodies are not annoying. However, nice production here.
I have one major regret coming from a japanese DJ compilation : I wish there had been some Sativa material, since Steve Good works in Japan. It's been a while since I haven't seen a track published from him, and I really like what he does. If Laureth reads this, may be in the future...? |
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Dance N Dust
Dance N Dust
Started Topics :
83
Posts :
419
Posted : Feb 26, 2006 14:10
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got my copy of that from Plusquam
i like that cd very much, not like the other cds by this label, that 1 is more psy less cluby.
start with decoy track ,this is a great deep progressive ,i got this track for some time naw and i like it, flow. then after that come's the Sensient realy deep psy tune, love it .the freq track is cool too.
i say evry track from him is great .. its have the same style like his track on "dusty nation part 2" (Time stretcher )
tracks 6,7,8 are realy nice with nice melody and deep progressive mix with psy sound.
all in all i love thet cd.
8/10
dj so have a great test of music.
the cd he release jast 2 month ago was super good too.
good luck from dance n dust
out now:
Aumrec – Before The Beginning ,EP
V/a Beat Wins , Compiled by DJ Asherun
Embargaa - Slova . EP
www.myspace.com/dancendustrecords |
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guy cohen
IsraTrance Senior Member
Started Topics :
417
Posts :
2871
Posted : Mar 5, 2006 14:22
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This cd force me to write some comments, so let's start  :
01. Decoy - Cat Magic
Ian & Philip are the artists which open this compilation. It is start with deep-proggy beats and a slowly building for next tracks. The track is very relaxed and calm and thats why you musy pay attention to every singel element/effect in. A good begining which make me move the head with the tempo of the kick.
02. Sensient - Dissolve
Tim Larner is the king of the "night progressive" . The first 50 seconds are unclear, but the kick's entery is awesome ! very danceable baseline which followed by intersting effects and together all create a night harmony with a scary atmosphere. The track is running all the time and when it's go down for a short time, the track is back with new power.
03. Freq - Sunglider
Mr. Gallgher is next to come. Freq's style is always suprising and fresh, so you don't know how to prepare your-self for a new tune. This one is going to the deep direction with fat kick and slow baseline. I really fall in loce with this track without any special reason, just because it's music with heart and emotion like it should be. 'Sunglider' will fascinate you for sure.
04. Bitmonx vs Fabio - Deep Sense
Sascha Haske and Fabio Fusco are the minds behind this excellent track. This track is build slowly and safety...you must focus on the track otherwise you will lose your interest very fast. 'Deep Sense' is creating an intersting story of groovy basses and attractive elements which go hand by hand with the kick's tempo.
05. Earsugar - Foretaste
Nicola (Liquid Soul) is one of my favorite progressive-artists, this time he is release a track with Martin Knecht under the project Earsugar (which is very sweet name for a project). It's start with a nice melody and few seconds later join the kick also..on 01:30 the track acatually open offically . Nicola's touch is very noticeable here so for me it's definitely the hit of the compilation.
06. Fitalic - My Destiny
Robin Fitter is the name behind 'Fitalic' project. This track is prove to me that also on low BPM you can dig like a crazy. Happy track with some positive vibes and good feeling which the listener feel when he hear 'My Destiny' (at least for me).
There is many melodies and playing which fill the track with hapiness and and joy. I like it a lot, keep it up Robin.
07. Ryan Halifax - Chocolate
Ryan is also a honorable guest in the comp. He is show me here that he control the groove and can do everything with it...this time it's more slowly but bery groovy and sexy like we all like to hear.
08. Andre Absolut - Lost And Found
Last (but definitely not least) is dear Ander Absolut. This artist is so colorful and unexpected, and here he present a slowly-groovy master-piece...beautiful melodies and rare atmosphere of developing. This tune is close the compilation and leace the eat with taste for more...
I almost forget to thanks DJ SO for compiled for us eight progressive track which selected carefully and tastely
Buy it now, don't hesitate :
http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/plu/plu1cd111.html |
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DeathPosture
IsraTrance Full Member
Started Topics :
142
Posts :
547
Posted : Mar 9, 2006 00:42
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V/A – Kodama
Cover: http://tinyurl.com/e8wjv
Artist: Various
Title: Kodama (Compiled by DJ So)
Format: CD (jewel case)
Label: Plusquam Records (Germany)
Cat. #: PQR 111 CD
Distribution: twohandsdistribution.com
Date: 11 February 2006
Track listing:
01. 07’19” Decoy – Cat Magic
02. 08’50” Sensient - Dissolve
03. 06’32” FREq - Sunglider
04. 07’44” Bitmonx vs. Fabio – Deep Sense
05. 07’59” Earsugar - Foretaste
06. 09’47” Fitalic – My Destiny
07. 08’07” Ryan Halifax - Chocolate
08. 07’45” André Absolut – Lost And Found
Review:
Nature Spirits
In Japanese folklore, the komoda are the nature spirits that live within all aspects of nature, primarily trees and rocks. Subsequently, it’s also the new Plusquam compilation compiled by DJ SO – godfather of the progressive Yakuza in Japan… Plusquam has fast become one of my fav’e labels within rich, danceable progressive trance, and judging by the tracklist here, we’re in for another treat… Will this live up to the expectations? … The answer is blowing in the wind!
Let me take you thru the tracks…
#01: Decoy - Cat Magic [136 BPM]
The Australian duo Decoy (Philip Rex & Ian Chaplin) recently released their debut album Not Responding To Light on Dance N Dust… And this opening track is very similar to the sound of the album, with its smooth, silky-soft, progressive trance… ‘Soft’ is both the keyword, and the ultimate drawback, as I’m afraid this is a little too cheesy for my taste… It’s not bad; it’s just a little tame… Your mileage may vary though…
#02: Sensient - Dissolve [138 BPM]
But do not despair – Sensient is here! Aussie producer Tim Larner has an impressive roster of releases, and especially his compilation tracks on Groove Zone Records have impressed me a great deal… And yes, this is another corker! The pace has quickened and gone are the slightly boring, cheesy tendencies from the opening track… This is full-blown party trance to be played during the peak hours of a nocturnal progressive party… Rich, edgy and dirty-as-hell progressive trance… The psychedelic influences are just right and basically I *have* to move to this amazing tune… Brilliant!
#03: FREq - Sunglider [138 BPM]
The third consecutive Aussie act on this compilation is none other than my personal hero FREq… Despite his rather hefty output, Mr. Gallagher always delivers the goods… And this track is no exception – this is trademark FREq = Awesome, rich, deep progressive trance soaked in reverbs! Maybe it’s not exactly reinventing the wheel, but who cares when it’s this good? Pure dancefloor fodder… Another instant FREq classic!
#04: Bitmonx vs. Fabio - Deep Sense [136 BPM]
And now for some hi-quality German progressive trance… Sascha Haske (one half of Buzzmonx) teams up with country man Fabio Fusco (one half of Fusi & Johnson)… These guys rarely let me down, and especially Mr. Haske has produced some of the grooviest progressive trance Germany has to offer… And groovy is just what this track is – it’s unmistakable Plusquam sounding and what it lacks in innovation, it makes up for in sheer groove-magnitude… It’s a phat wall of rolling progressive sounds which is as deep as it is bouncy… Brilliant!
#05: Earsugar - Foretaste [135 BPM]
Earsugar is a new collaboration between Swiss producers Nicola Capobianco (DJ Loudness/Liquid Soul) and Martin Knecht (Mikrokosmos). Especially Liquid Soul has released some real sweet compilation tracks, and I’m happy to report that this is indeed ‘ear sugar’… It’s not as massive as the previous three tracks, but it’s easily as uplifting… The first thing I noticed when sampling this track, was the very impressive vocal work – those distinct voice samples work really great! A solid, laidback progressive cruiser…
#06: Fitalic - My Destiny [130 BPM]
Dutch producer Robin Fitter has an impressed number of releases under his belt, but for some reason I only know his slightly boring, epic remix of Antix’ Little Honey… And yeah, this is indeed one of the most epic, fluffy and melodic tunes here... But at least it’s got *some* edge and for the most part I find myself enjoying this quite a lot… It’s nice to have some uplifting melodies that don’t cross fully over into club-trance… It’s good, but it’s not a stand-out track…
#07: Ryan Halifax - Chocolate [130 BPM]
The few tracks I’ve heard from Alexander Schaumann have been very diverse, but all very, very bouncy… And the bounce is bouncier than ever here… This is bottomless-pit-deep progressive trance with very distinct house- and electro-influences… Very lush and instantly head bob friendly… I’m totally digging it!
#08: André Absolut - Lost And Found [127 BPM]
André Absolut from Switzerland is well-known and respected progressive/tech house producer and DJ with a bunch of releases on various labels… I really like his deep, mysterious tech-house style and though this track isn’t among his darkest, it’s still pretty damn banging… The rhythm section is impressive with all its groove appeal… It may appear simple, but dig a little deeper and this track will keep you entertained for long enough… Nice indeed!
Well I’ll be damned, if Plusquam hasn’t gone and released another essential compilation… With the exception of a couple of pretty-good-but-not-great tracks, this compilation is packed to the rim with stellar choons… DJ So sure knows what he’s doing and I’m really impressed with the track selection here… Well done! Also, this is the perfect tool for both sofa-trancing and for trancefloor dancing… Easily worth the money!
The cover is simple, but has all the relevant information you’d need… All in all, this is a great package and so far it’s the best compilation of 2006! Yeah, that’s right! Plusquam fans needs to get off their asses and buy this – and fans of groovy, dancefloor friendly progressive trance in general should definitely look into it! It’s brilliant! …Enjoy!
Favourites: 2(!!), 3(!!), 4(!), 5, 7(!), 8
DeathPosture
External links:
Plusquam Records: http://www.plusquam-records.net
Discogs: http://www.discogs.com/release/628925
MusicDock: http://tinyurl.com/fwh62
TranceShop: http://tinyurl.com/fryl8
Discobole: http://tinyurl.com/eef4p
Wirikuta: http://tinyurl.com/zsbhu
Psyshop: http://tinyurl.com/kxlal
Wakyo: http://tinyurl.com/kddj7
Tower: http://tinyurl.com/fhuoz
Saiko: http://tinyurl.com/h4qvq
Cisco: http://tinyurl.com/zdp3d
Ajuca: http://tinyurl.com/g8l2p
On really romantic evenings of self, I go salsa dancing with my confusion... |
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DJ SO
Started Topics :
0
Posts :
2
Posted : Mar 16, 2006 02:24
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Slater
IsraTrance Full Member
Started Topics :
131
Posts :
306
Posted : Mar 16, 2006 13:11
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In my opinion, the best Plusquam release in a really long time. Highlights for me are the tracks by Fitalic and André Absolut...congrats So & Laureth!
Out now:
*V.A. - Vanguard vol. 3 compiled by Duca & DJ Slater |
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Pavel
Moderator
Started Topics :
312
Posts :
8646
Posted : Apr 1, 2006 12:30
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Stunning release. No weak tracks here. Favorites: Decoy, Sensient, FreQ, Fitalic and Andre Absolut.
Everyone in the world is doing something without me |
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Acidhive
IsraTrance Full Member
Started Topics :
76
Posts :
2014
Posted : Apr 1, 2006 14:34
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I agree. A stunning release and a great selection of tracks. I especially like the Fitalic, Andre Absolut, Ryan Halifax and Decoy tracks. Just as good as Wireless and Irresistible Meltdown 4 IMO. Good work SO!
"Subconscious unravels at the point of death, and all time it has known erupts into a moment. As death extinguishes us, so we become it."
[Esoteric: Subconscious Dissolution Into The Continuum] |
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Acidhive
IsraTrance Full Member
Started Topics :
76
Posts :
2014
Posted : Jun 29, 2006 15:12
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Just listened to it some more and that Sensient track is kickass. Especially on a good soundsystem. Oh yeah baby!
"Subconscious unravels at the point of death, and all time it has known erupts into a moment. As death extinguishes us, so we become it."
[Esoteric: Subconscious Dissolution Into The Continuum] |
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klaxer
Koan / Vacuum Stalkers
Started Topics :
11
Posts :
380
Posted : Jul 3, 2006 09:53
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Sensient is very good! |
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psypras
IsraTrance Junior Member
Started Topics :
26
Posts :
569
Posted : Aug 20, 2006 22:02
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Quote:
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On 2006-03-16 13:11, Slater wrote:
In my opinion, the best Plusquam release in a really long time. Highlights for me are the tracks by Fitalic and André Absolut...congrats So & Laureth!
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Quote:
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On 2006-03-16 02:24, DJ SO wrote:
Hello all,
nice to have feedback.
thank you.
yes
i wanted to make difference
between past releases from PQ and my one.
hope to see at TSHITRAKA FESTIVAL in July
http://www.tshitraka.com/tshitraka/index.htm
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hey guys. you really rocked the show @ voov this year. awesome sets! and you dj so, you must be the one who had the hardest bass this year. lol, had to use my earplugs.
but bitmonx & fabio's set was the most impressive i have heard in a very long time. and fabio are a killer live  really looking forward to that album |
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