Record Review - 2 June 05 2003

Mix CDs are less an objective chronicle of a DJ's live set than they are like a souvenir, a postcard with a single iconic image. They distill an evening's worth of high and low points, dubs and duds, into a seamless montage, reflecting a "signature sound." Expectations sell them, which is why there's always anticipation whenever the Grammy-winning DJ duo Deep Dish drop a new compilation. They know the importance of promoting their brand, too: Recent high-profile mixes of singles by Justin Timberlake and P. Diddy helped whet appetites for their new house music compilation, Global Underground 025: Toronto.

Atmospherically soulful, Toronto offers muscled percussion, sinewy rhythms and lithe grooves that are almost as contagious as that city's recent viral visitor. Highlights include the funky strut of Sander Kleinenberg's "Work to Do," the whispered longing of Holden & Thompson's "Nothing," and the rugged blend of Julie McKnight's eloquent "Diamond Life" with Stephane K's chunky "Numb." Another nice offering is Situation 2WO's "Way2tite" with its healthy sampling of "Sunshine & the Rain" by Atlanta's underrated funk-rock queen Joi.

In addition to its choice selections, Toronto bubbles with a headphone symphony of subtle EQ tweaks that grow warmer with each play. True, Deep Dish is almost a corporate brand these days. But they make a damn good product.

Deep Dish performs at the Crescent Lounge Sat., June 7. Call for ticket price.