Firmly rooted in the past, the slow season for new releases is quickly drying my pool of new fodder for these mixes. No fear, I can keep the dredging equipment busy for at least a few more weeks, though my prediction is you’ll start to notice with this effort.

Fractals of Earth

Piano Magic – Bringing in former members of Dead Can Dance to participate on your new album either means you’re going through an unfortunate nostalgic streak or your target market has shifted to 35+ year old ex-goths. Either way, anything bearing the Piano Magic name on it deserves attention, regardless of the methods or level of desperation.

The Mary Onettes – My absolute favorite Swedish retro new wave rockers wander into another memorable group of romantic tunes that will keep you checking their lineage for that telltale stamp of British citizenship.

Bear In Heaven – Well not everyone needs to use their blazing synths for galloping stomps to the dancefloor, there were plenty of moody mid-tempo moments in Moog history worthy of evocation as well.

The Ghost Is Dancing – Hopefully not a Simple Minds reference in the title, because quite frankly they can’t possibly live up to it. Everything here feels a tick off, from the faux-stomping to the nasal vocals. A decent producer could perhaps tighten up their belts.

Karl Blau – And Karl Blau is not just a (more than) decent producer, he’s also a swell musician as well. Why he decided to meander into the realm of 80’s inspired sludge I’m not sure, but this effort is somewhat south of his most memorable moments.

The Invisible Kid – OK, those who felt like the last three track were a side-trip to purgatory … at least this tune has a beat. A bit too bland to really inspire a trip to the dance floor, but at least you’ll get to hone those “sorry I’m turning you down” skills.

Lovelock – There’s only one authentic 80’s moment available for your inspection tonight, and this one is worthy of the weight.

To Kill A Petty Bourgeoisie – For those who desire life-support beats, a torpid pace and heavy reverb on the vocals do we have a mix closer for you!