Back catalogue: Techno (Alles)

Review: Fabric Presents Laurent Garnier is a remarkable 4xCD compilation that captures the legendary French DJs unmatched knack for selecting the finest in deep techno and house. With over 35 years in the industry, Garnier's sets have become synonymous with dancefloor transcendence and this collection is no exception. Here, Garnier focuses exclusively on fresh releases, reflecting his continued pulse on contemporary techno. Notable tracks include Deon Cole's infectious 'Where The Freaks At', the haunting atmospheres of Culoe De Song's 'Aftermath' and Anane's bold reinterpretation of 'Walking On Thin Ice'. Each vinyl side flows seamlessly, packed with standout moments, from the vibrant collaboration 'Shella Verse' by Sammy Virji & Flowdan to Equiknoxx's dynamic 'Urban Snare Cypher'. While Laurent's sets are known for bridging the genre's past and present, this collection highlights only new music, showcasing Garnier's enduring influence and impeccable taste. Fabric Presents Laurent Garnier is an essential snapshot of the genre's current sound, proving that Laurent's curatorial skills remain as sharp and relevant as ever. This compilation is a must for anyone invested in quality techno and house music.

Review: Those who've been paying close attention will know that Alex 'Omar' Smith has been mixing things up musically of late, veering away from the deep Detroit house he's famed for in order to explore a wider range of influences. New album "You Want" doesn't exactly reverse this trend, but it is far more rooted in his particular brand of seductive, off-kilter deepness and techno-tinged hypnotism than recent singles. That's undeniably a good thing, because nobody does crunchy, machine driven club jams better than the Motor City producer. There are nods towards Italian style piano house, disco, broken beat, jazz funk, Masters at Work and - more surprisingly - industrial techno (see the filthy closing cut) - but the resultant cuts don't sound like anything other than tried-and-tested Omar-S club jams.

Review: Swiss label Drumpoet has been one of those super reliable outlets that serves up good quality deep house. It has now been doing so for 15 years and marks the occasion with a bumper triple vinyl collection featuring 13 cuts from all the label's finest associates. There is brilliantly left-of-centre minimal from Roman Flugel and Frank Weidermann to kick off, then melody-rich deep house from Bubble Wrap, and an absolute classic from the one and only Herbert who supplies 'Air.' Plenty more lushness comes from the likes of Fred Everything and Ripperton to make this a fine collection.