The fact that Soma can celebrate 15 years as one of the best dance music labels in the world is not only impressive but inspirational. I can count the number of independent UK dance music labels that have survived this long on my wedding tackle. The fact that they’ve chosen to mark the occasion with a gem-studded nine-track compilation of their key artists is the icing on a very large birthday cake. You’d expect a new track from the omnipotent Slam, who’ve provided so many golden moments over the years. Thats here in the epic Looking North, a cascading flow of interacting melodies and their trademark emotional twang. But there are also belters from stalwarts Vector Lovers, subterranean bass-crawling Alex Smoke, an on-form Funk DVoid, floor-mashing Silicone Soul and Percy X shaking it savagely with the new Separatists project. Repeat Repeat increase the demand for their debut album with the scuzzed-up freakery of Bombardier while recent departure My Robot Friend takes Kraftwerk from behind with I Am The Robot. Just to show there will be no letup, new project Mirror Music debut with the jaw-dropping psychedelia of The Redemption Of Taylor Nash, which could be responsible for Ibizas first earthquake. Soma Records has always been a rare and unique beast plugged into the pure essence of electronic dance music. Heres nine reasons why the 20th birthday should be no problem at all. We salute you!
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Kris Needs
