Justus Kohncke: Safe and Sound

Label: Kompakt

The release of last year’s album From Here We Go Sublime by the Field brought the Kompakt label some long overdue recognition (it even cracked the Village Voice’s vaunted Pazz & Jop poll!), and the third album from Germany’s Justus Kohncke should only solidify Kompakt’s reputation as the world’s premier techno label. Safe and Sound features some of the most sublime dance music you will hear this year, loaded with ready-for-the-club electro jams and irresistible mid-tempo grooves. Kohncke brings subtle flourishes to these songs that add spark and variety to the whole affair, with disco-inspired beats and plenty of lush, ambient tones. The ferocious opener, “Yacht,” sets the tone with its whimsical, synthy chords, while the album’s highlight “(It’s Gonna Be) Alright” features a terrific bassline (reminiscent of Madonna’s “Holiday”) and a steady, pulsating groove. (James)