Various Artists

Uncanny Valley 020

It’s time to celebrate! At catalogue number 20 Uncanny Valley extends its compilation-concept to 12 tracks spread over three records, one CD or as a bundle if you prefer digital. With new music by label-regulars like Jacob Korn, Cuthead and Credit 00, friends like RVDS & K’Alexi or Filburt and fresh talents like Götterkreis & Steve Kasper it is an exciting ride along the winding roads through the Uncanny Valley. The three records are visually linked with distinctive artwork by the ever-reliable Paul Waak.

Part 1 starts off in style with “Art Of The Track” by RVDS & K’Alexi Shelby. On their debut track for Uncanny Valley the Hamburg-Chicago duo created a classic tribute to the drum that evolves into a BIG track with a killer acid line and floating synths. After that, Credit 00 shows off his newfound love for catchy sample choice once again. “Obsessed” is a killer track that also persuades with its catchy bass line. Sneaker delivers a bouncy remix for “Function” by Dresden’s Optokoppler. With extra vocals by himself and Ewa Smyk they play with sexual stereotyping in a fun and very danceable way. “2×4” by CV30X instead is dubby chords and spooky sounds with an easygoing vibe that extends CVBox’ much beloved sonic palette.

Part 2 sees the long awaited return of Jacob Korn whose “Der Don” is his first production for Uncanny Valley since his acclaimed album “You & Me” in 2012. With overlapping strings and thrilling beats it’s an epic dance floor banger and Jacob Korn at his best. Dresden’s Götterkreis and Steve Kasper put their focus on percussions and dub techniques. Their “Puli Kali (Rooted Dub)“ is a well-executed combination of dubby Techno and funky UK bass music. Also new to the label is Lounge 44 who works up a Soul tune into a climatic House track in best cut-up fashion. Kornhead aka Jacob Korn and Cuthead throw together their preferences for pumping beats and jazzy samples which results in a laid back House track that actually wanted to be Hip-Hop jam.

Part 3 starts with a bang and “In der Weltraumdiskothek” by mysterious Dresden based producer DC Production. If you’ve ever wondered what music would be played at the night club of the Ewoks this tune might be the answer. “Nuthin Wrong Here” is Scherbe to the bone with his stumbling beats, dirty synths and heartbreaking samples. We also have a big heart for Disco here at the valley and this is proven by Sandrow M & K_Chico who put a smile on our face with catchy guitar licks, bouncy bass lines and cheesy vocals. “Space Dancer”, what more could you desire? Finally, Filburt from Leipzig brings things down to a peaceful end with his slightly melancholic “My Time”.