William Orbit Best Of Strange Cargo CD

Before he became one of the most sought-after producers in pop music, lending a winning touch to recordings by Madonna, Blur, and others, William Orbit put out a series of three releases: STRANGE CARGO 1, 2, and 3. These largely instrumental recordings mine various trends in the dance and electronic music of the 1990s, incorporating elements of ambient, techno, and electronica, without falling into any particular genre. Orbit's production is clean and spacious, with acoustic guitars, strings, and other touches replacing the music's inherently artificial edge with an organic warmth.

Orbit's sense of playfulness and penchant for odd sounds transforms these recordings into something well beyond merely pleasant (i.e. forgettable) electronic music (although the gentle tropicalia of "Via Caliente" and "Riding to Rio" would not offend a stodgy visiting aunt). One of the finest moments is "Water From a Vineleaf," a heavenly dance track with vocals by the talented English songstress Beth Orton. The tune approximates a legal Ecstasy trip better than most songs ever could. Two versions are offered here, the original and a remix by Underworld. Other highlights include an interesting cover of the Psychedelic Furs' "Love My Way" and the hypnotic, dub-style "Harry Flowers."

Recorded at Guerilla Studios, London, England.

Personnel: Christine Leach, Divine Bashim, Cleo Torres, Beth Orton (vocals); Rico Conning (strings, piano).

Audio Mixers: Underworld; William Orbit.

Audio Remixers: Darren Emerson; Rick Smith.

Recording information: Guerilla Studios, London, England (1983-1992).

Personnel: William Orbit (various instruments); Beth Orton, Cleo Torres, Divine Bashim, Christine Leach (vocals); Rico Conning (piano, strings).