Azari & III – Azari & III

Without wishing to sound like an ambassador for Mixmag, it wouldn't be inaccurate to suggest that hedonism and intoxication are cornerstones of dance music culture. Tethered tightly to classicist strains of house, disco and 80s synth-pop with vocals at the forefront, Azari & III's debut album distills the euphoria and adventure of small hours reverie in a fashion that will sound strikingly familiar to anyone who's been in earshot of records from storied imprints such as Trax or Strictly Rhythm.

Even the tracklist reads like a caner's night out (Tunnel Vision, Manhooker, Manic); not that I'd know. Bookended by the timeless piano chords of Reckless (With Your Love) and the lascivious creep of Hungry For The Power, the album's dilated pupils betray a dark pop soul, of which Indigo and Manhooker are its blackest recessess. An effortlessly exceptional album, one that any discerning clubhead should have no hesitation in surrendering to.