Anjunadeep Vol 13 - Mixed by Jody Wisternoff & James Grant

[Exodom]

The sweeping drone shots of moody European scenery is back, this time only with 2 CD's, but now we get to watch the DJ's twiddle, push and dance there way through the experience. Jody Wistenoff looks rather cold, not helped by the timid bpm's and frequent extended 'organic' emotional moments, but does get a jiggle for some breakbeats that seem all the rage with the label right now

“Jody and I have been spoilt for choice compiling Anjunadeep 13. Our growing label family has been on fire lately, with more amazing music than ever in the release schedule and a tantalising wave of new talent coming through. We’re delighted to have them all on board, and to showcase their music in the mix.” - James Grant

I don't share the same feelings at the moment, but I still love to follow the label. I really liked 2020 releases. This year not found much of anything interesting, but today I give both CD's a good listen through to make an opinion. I find there is always something to appreciate. What do you guys make of this latest addition?


CD 1 & CD Mix

 

[MDD]

A couple few seems ok on first listen. Warung - division was nice, chilled driving vibes. I noticed a tinckler track I hadn't heard before but I don't think it's good as his prior releases.


Still not sold on the open space setting of these types of sets. Just feels awkward for me like rubbing my face in it because I want to be in that amazing location too but I can't.

 

[Dmoore]

CD2 is actually good casual home listening experience and I think a nice job. Icarus - Only was really cool and I liked the Marsh track. Them ending with a Drum & Bass track was a nice though although shame that its the only tracks with real energy. I know its a deep mix but still want something more moving. Need to spin both mixes again in all honestly to know if it's gonna be a keeper.

 

[Quethas]

I used to like Anjunadeep compilations more than Anjunabeats compilations before, but the last few Anjunadeep's have been pretty meh.

I gave this one a try. It is not bad or anything, but it feels like the whole compilation immediately goes to background and then it just stays there. While in general I have no issues with more chilled and relaxing sounds, I cannot point out the highlights over here and that is a main problem. If everything is just "okay" the compilation eventually becomes flat and insignificant.

 

[Exodom]

I gave this one a try. It is not bad or anything, but it feels like the whole compilation immediately goes to background and then it just stays there. While in general I have no issues with more chilled and relaxing sounds, I cannot point out the highlights over here and that is a main problem. If everything is just "okay" the compilation eventually becomes flat and insignificant.

I understand your point of view, and I feel the same. But on my more positive days I also look at the compilation as still something unique to dance music and that without this yearly compilation it would be a shame because no one else assembles these styles of tracks in a thoughtful mix. And some days I really do just want house music with more background and chill experience. I think its better than OK, just not offering anything incredible. Somewhere in between.