Although Phil K. hasn't yet reached the superstar DJ league in the UK, he's well established back in his native Australia.
He has released tracks under several names, including Dark Alley, Free Radicals, Hi-Fi Bugs and NuBreed and his first compilation release, 'Sound Not Scene', won the 'Best Compilation' category at the Australian Dance Music Awards 2000.
This is the fourth instalment in EQ's internationally recognised 'Balance' series. It features homegrown artists and labels, as well as music and mixes from more established names like Terry Francis and Luke Chable.
Some of the tracks may be unfamiliar, but Phil fuses them together in a mix that is totally world class. He's taken the opportunity to showcase his versatility, and split the album into two mixes, break beat and house.
Although the break beat mix is powered by a good shot of bass, it generally reflects the lighter side of the genre, never getting too dark or menacing.
The skater dude commentary on Smart n Pocket's 'Kickflip Manual' adds a bit of humour. Phil's own remix work shines on the Dark Alley 'Heavy Mental Breaks' mix of GT's 'Love Song (This Is Not A...)'. Scrambler's 'Free' is one of the few vocal tracks, and it works well within this mix of upfront backroom material.
The house mix is a thoroughly energetic romp through variants of progressive house.
There are plenty of tribal influences, including some outstanding percussion on Paul Jays' 'Spiritual Battery' and J & S Productions '1st Sessions'. Nathan Hawks' Latin-tinged Les Zoulous drops into a rhythmic clapping breakdown before letting the drums explode.
Terry Francis' re-working of Sarah Jane Morris 'Ever Gonna Make It' is straightforward deep, pumping house.
Phil adds his own twists to the mix to make it unique. A Sinead O'Connor acapella is mixed over Tribal Fusion 'Buddha's Groove' and Prince Quick Mix 'The Way'. It's not hard to imagine the incredible effect this would have on the dancefloor. It's so totally unexpected, and it's dropped into the mix at just the right time.
This is one of those moments where everyone on the dancefloor is sure to be blown away. Phil K. makes it sound easy.
As far as compilation CDs go, this is a cut above the rest. The selection is fresh and unpredictable. It may be a matter of personal preference, but the house mix is the one that really leaps out from the speakers.
Phil's mix rides the crest of the wave before it all rushes down, only to roll and gather steam again, leaving the listener breathless. It sounds like his time has come.
by Mimi Eclectic Electric