Balance 023: Radio Slave

Though the era of mix CDs and compilation discs has most certainly hit its peak, the prestigious Balance series has not slowed down at all. For their

Not Available Lead
Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

Not Available Lead

Though the era of mix CDs and compilation discs has most certainly hit its peak, the prestigious Balance series has not slowed down at all. For their 23rd installment, Radioslave stepped up to the decks to offer his own expression of sounds. Following the likes of Nic Faniciulli, and Jooris Voorn, Radioslave knew that the mix was not something to pass up. Matt Edwards, the man behind Radio Slave, explained his thought process behind his mix, the dichotomy of the two discs: “The idea of a double disc is something that totally suits me down to the ground,” he explains. “I'm interested in so many types of music. So with the Balance compilation I knew I'd have to take one mix in a clubbier direction and then the second disc would be all about showcasing tracks from my favorite producers and creating an environment for home listening that isn't just wallpaper.”

Edwards continued, adding “I'm constantly trying to always find the right balance of music for DJing and dig that bit deeper. I hear so many underground DJs who think they're so cool but they don't even scratch the surface, and it makes me crazy as these people make so much money out the scene but don't invest anything back. So with the Balance CD I wanted to bring something different to the mixing desk.”

And after multiple listens, I can confirm this is not just wallpaper, and it is definitely different. While the first mix leans in a unconventional yet still traditional house way, the tunes are nothing like what you'll be hearing on any main stage. Between the eerily shamanistic vocal bits to the atmospheric soundscapes Edwards creates a dream world in which you can't help but be an active participant. Whether you're grooving along existing in the balaeric inspired nirvana, or laying on your couch letting your mind follow the beats as you dissect the subtle complexities of the undulating rhythms, Radioslave has surely lived up to the mix's lofty heritage.

With the second disc, Edwards continues with a spiritual vibe and perhaps in an even more expressive way with his break from straight beats taking on the oft-forgotten yet so important and sonically interesting side of downtempo and ambient. For many, downtempo and ambient is a bit too abstract, but Edwards avoids this almost inherent esoteric aspect with a liveliness that few are capable of.  A glitchy jazz, a fidgety elegance, perhaps this mix might be your first foray into the sounds of beatlessness.

You can buy the mix from the Balance website.

Latest in Music