Nick Warren: Balance 018

Over the last decade, the Balance series of DJ mixes has made a name for Balance Music, the Australian electronic dance music label. This 18th entry, mixed by English veteran Nick Warren, will only enhance the series’ reputation. Over two discs and 22 tracks, Warren spins expansive, thinking person’s techno. But there’s plenty of rhythm and melody to satisfy casual clubgoers as well. There’s a hint of old school house music here, a touch of dubstep there, and Warren handles it all deftly, never pandering. There’s nary a dud among the lot, but Spieltape’s sweeping, melancholic “Morning Paper” might be the highlight of a very strong set. The vibe is a bit chill, yes. But has Warren gone soft? Hardly.