- What started way back in 1997, True Playaz' (the label founded and run by drum'n'bass pioneers Hype, Zinc and Pascal) "In The Mix" series has finally reached volume number 3. This time it features Pascal rinsing out the breaks, a man responsible for producing tunes for the label since 97 and has virtually appeared on every label-centric compilation/showcase since the label's inception. Tunes-wise he's been responsible for putting out several of his own EPs for the label including and not limited to Cool Manouvre (97), A New P-Funk Era (2000), Versions (01) and the Watershed (02).
The tune that was used to signal an end to "In The Mix" volume 2 has now been updated for 2004, given a new remix by Moving Fusion and now used to start volume 3. Pascal's P-Funk 2004 features a funky synth hook, hard razor bass lines, sweet female vocal samples, tough hip hop samples and rolling drumbreaks to set the mood of the CD - uptempo, uplifting and charging beats.
Robocop from DJ Friction and Nu Balance features snippets from the movie (so you better "stay out of trouble"!) accompanied by triplet style breaks and drum fills and a massive bass line. Feels so retro and ravey in a way taking it back to the days when putting a wicked movie sample in your tunes got everybody on the dancefloor going nuts.
Pascal's Johnny 2003 gets featured here with a remix done by Bad Company (UK) who take their signature "start off with a dark, drawn out bassline and progressively add percussion elements to it with a movie sample on top" sound before ripping into a monster bassline and hard hitting breaks. DJ Hype brings out a new remix of the ragga Peace, Love & Unity (originally released back in 97 and was the first release on the label) featuring steppy kick drum beats, militant hardcore snare rolls while a ragga man sings on top.
Can't forget Zinc, the Super Sharp Shooter ("the S, the H, the A, the R, the P"... OK I'll stop) who offers up a new remix of Ska which has been getting caned by all the DJs including Andy C, Grooverider (who signed it to their mix CDs) and who can blame them with its melodic wobble bassline that's just catchy. Hive offer up the string laden Last Call with a lovely string melody that feels like its been lifted from some 50's movie.
Finally the mix takes a ride through chilled out drum'n'bass with Pascal's Hustler. Mellow synth floatings, bird noises, funky bass and eardrum friendly tech noises make a perfect closing tune for the CD.
Pascal continues the "In The Mix" series with good results. Nothing really groundbreaking or outstanding here, just good party drum'n'bass tunes that the Playaz are typically known for. Perhaps they can consider going back to their old skool routes and do a Ganja Records or Frontline records mix set for those who are just starting to see what all the drum'n'bass buzz is all about.