Right from the start, Swayzak's 2003 contribution to the Fabric mix series makes a concerted attempt to separate itself from the production crew's 2002 contribution to the Groovetechnology mix series. While a handful of this disc's inclusions have the familiar slinky rhythm-pulse, the keyboard-generated vapor-trail coating, and little else in the way of decoration, most of the tracks lean toward oddball strains of house that don't have a whole lot in common with Swayzak's own sleek work of la   [ read more ]

CD $17.08

Despite minimalist techno sets like their Groovetechnology mix from 2001, Swayzak are still largely pop producers, and Dirty Dancing also shows them more conscious of their strengths than on their last standard LP, the sprawling Himawari. Right off the bat, the opener "Make Up Your Mind" -- an atmospheric house track with vocals by Clair Dietrich -- lays out exactly what makes Swayzak so special: impossibly crisp production, impeccable interplay between rhythm and effects, and    [ read more ]

CD $15.18

CD $15.18

Retired to a chateau in the French Alps (the Grande Bergerie of the title), Swayzak peered down from their high perch and presently gave the world a record that sounds much less dirty than Dirty Dancing, much less detailed than Himawari, and much less sublime than their debut classic, Snowboarding in Argentina. Encompassing several vocal collaborations with Richard Davis of the band's 240 Volts label (as well as two vocals from Swayzak's own David Brown), {^Loops From the Berg   [ read more ]

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CD $16.13

Named for the group's dream vacation if their album was successful, Snowboarding in Argentina showcases Swayzak's clean, minimal blend of dub, jazz-house and ambient. The album features tracks from the group's singles as well as new Swayzak pieces. "Bueno," "Fukumachi" and "Low-Res Skyline" are all highlights, featuring the group's knack for making danceable comedown music. [A seven-track reissue appeared in 2009.] ~ Heather Phares, All Music Guide

CD $17.08