V/A Mixed by Steve Bug - Fabric37

Steve Bug is without doubt one of the key pioneers of the minimal techno scene that has engulfed major clubs over the last couple of years. When he released a compilation called Da Minimal Funk over a decade ago, he clearly had an eye on the future. Here we find him creating another compilation, this time for the Fabric series, which has been going from strength to strength recently and is now seen as one of the strongest compilation series available. This one is no different, with a selection of minimal grooves and beats massaged together by Bug. The mix begins with a laidback feel on tracks such as Anywhere You Are and In the Wall by Peace Division. As the mix moves towards its centre, it is clear that minimal is not the only style on the menu. Swirling hypnotic riffs merge into ethereal melodies as the mix gathers cohesion. More minimalism returns in the likes of Mikael Stavöstrand and Lee Curtis before the album finishes with some synth-heavy, futuristic beats just as the 5am feeling takes over with final track Red Doggy by Gui.tar. [Sean McNamara]