BnB Review: Various - Forward To The Past (Poker Flat)

Written by Youri Jozee

Steve Bug and his Poker Flat buddies pay homage to the '85-'92' house sound on this label compilation featuring only brand new and exclusive tracks...







The typical late 80s and early 90s sound of acid and Chicago house seems to be relevant more than ever as the charts are flooded with tunes that refer to this era in terms of stripped-down, acid bass-fueled house grooves. This Forward To The Past compilation amasses some of Poker Flat's most skilled producers to add their own spin to this era, with the result being a very enjoyable release jam-packed with 12 jack tracks. Whereas some tracks have a subtle hint of 21st century production techniques, most tunes are produced and structured according to the laws of 80s house, including the nervously rattling tambourines, 808 kicks, Detroit-ish strings in the back and -yay- analog tape mastering.

It must be said that the majority of the producers have done a great job in re-interpreting the classic house sound, with highlights including KiNK and Neville Watson's Night Time Raw, The Revenge's Elements Of Fife (Main Mix), and Cle's Feel It (Don't Cha Know). Any weak moments too? Well, we do question the inclusion of Ribn'Pancake and Deetron's The Maze. Both are great tunes but lack the vintage touch that make the other tunes on this compilation more interesting.

Our verdict:
Forward To The Past is a brave and succesful attempt to recontruct the classic sound of acid, house and techno. Apart from a few daft moments here and there, this collection delivers a load of quality acid house oldschoolism crafted by producers that know their classics.

Rating: 7.5/10
Label: Poker Flat
Release date: April 4th, 2011 (CD, vinyl pack, digital download)

Tracklist
1. Steve Bug - Jack Is Back (Album Edit)
2. Martin Landsky - V2U (Album Edit)
3. KINK and Neville Watson - Night Time Raw
4. Sasse - Hot For You
5. The Revenge - Elements Of Fife (Main Mix)
6. Ribn - Pancake
7. Polus - Patterns In The Dark
8. Deetron - The Maze
9. Cle - Feel It (Don't Cha Know)
10. TJ Kong & Modular K - Jack Shit
11. Cab Drivers - Shoulder Pad
12. Redshape - Funny Green Hat (Altered Mix)

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