Various Artists

Freshly Composted Vol. 3

Subtitle: Compost Dreihundert
Contributors: Marbert Rocel, Eddy Meets Yannah, Karma, Beanfield, Robert Owens
Label: Compost
US Release Date: 2009-01-27
UK Release Date: 2008-10-27
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The third volume is Compost's Freshly Composted sampler series is a special one. First, it marks the label's 300th release,no small feat for an electronic-oriented indie. Second, the tunes are exceptional. Over half the 13 selections are previously-unreleased on CD, and most are remixes. You get the spunky spy-jazz of Marbert Rocel's "The Pack" and Sepalot's "Go Get It". You get the immaculate yet personable soul of Eddy Meets Yannah's "Solid Ground" and Robert Owens' "Never Give Up". And the techno-funk of Muallem's "Cheerleader". And the more experimental electro-jazz of Wojtek Urbanski's "Violet Violin" and Beanfield's "Tides". You get the idea. While the approach may vary, it's all very Compost, that is, tasteful, sharp, and listenable. Standouts will depend on your subgenre of choice, but to these ears the heavily atmospheric, soaring synths of Karma's "Beach Towel" are tough to beat.