Hed Kandi: Serve Chilled, Vol. 59 CD

With the seemingly never-ending issuing of Hed Kandi compilations (thanks in no small part to the recent purchase of the label by U.K. juggernaut Ministry of Sound), it's hard to differentiate at times which ones are quality and which ones are bargain-bin filler. This double disc starts off promising enough with two of the best downtempo acts around (4hero and Jazzanova), but from there it meanders into predictable, safe downtempo territory. There are bright moments here and there courtesy of Nouvelle Vague, Crazy P, and Rae & Christian, but over two discs these moments are few and far between. For those looking to create a relaxing atmosphere and who wish to use this as their audio wallpaper, this will serve its purpose well. However, more discerning ears should point their interest elsewhere. ~ Rob Theakston

UK two disc set, subtitled A Return To The Brighter Side Of Chill, featuring 28 euphoric chill-out tracks including 4 Hero's 'Conceptions', Jazzanova's 'Bohemian Sunset', Ganga's 'Sweet Morning', Frontera's 'Rouge', Defender's 'Bliss', Nouvelle Vague's 'This Is Not A Love Song', True Stories' 'Crazy Girls' and more.