One of the hard dance scene’s most respected DJ’s, Andy Farley, showcases his mighty talents with this debut release in the DMC Update series. The ethos is a simple one: a cutting edge live mix CD, with a soundtrack selected by the DJ. Andy has remained at the top of his game for some years now, and never one to rest on his laurels, his sound has become increasingly influenced by techno & tribal elements. With the recent success of his own event, Blue, his identity has never been stronger. On ‘Hard House Update’, Andy showcases the very best of the tougher dance genres… From the opening refrains of Paul Janes ‘Something Special’, the beats fizz with energy. Old school pianos pulsate, giving way to the hypnotic acid loops of Andy & Pagano’s future classic, Ritmo Acido’. Tracks from Tim Clewes, new label Tekelec, and the consistently innovate ‘Intec’ are fine examples of just how influential techno has become to hard house producers and DJ’s alike. Drums and percussion bang out a primal rhythm; the spirit will be moved! The mood darkens by the time BK & Andy’s ‘Cut Dat’ makes its presence felt, furious beats gain momentum against a backdrop of lush sound effects. The unmistakable hard house synths are ripping through the speakers by the time Ben Steven’s ‘Traumatic’ kicks in, giving way to the pummelling techno beats of Dave the Drummer & Guy McAffer – this mix is taking no prisoners. The pace continues to quicken with each track, before finally bowing out on a high with Defective Audio’s sublime remix of Glazby & Maddox’s ‘Tortured’. This CD will dispel any fears you might have about hard dance ‘not being as good as it used to’! Andy Farley has hand picked some of the finest examples of where the harder sound is heading right now, and if you love the tougher sounds, but with added groove and subtlety, this is the CD for you.
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Jacob Moss
