The Fabriclive series of CDs have a reputation for pushing the boundaries and ‘Fabriclive.05’ from Howie B (Bernstein) is no exception. Taking an open-minded approach to the mix, Bernstein doesn’t spare any DJ tricks in creating a raw sounding blend of hip-hop, breakbeat and electro with a smattering of tech-housey sounds. It seems that the only essential criteria for inclusion in the mix is that each track oozes funk and soul, which is obviously something important to Bernstein.

The first few tracks are trancey, hard-edged electro sounding numbers with an excerpt from Lydia Lunch introducing a nice dark and dirty feel, as an almost robotically emotionless voice talks over a track. However, as soon as you have begun to get used to the darker feel of these first few songs, Bernstein pulls out a big change in mood with a hauntingly sweet mix of Garbage’s Cherry Lips. This track is a highlight of the album, and it serves as an introduction to some of the more uplifting and housey tracks, like the bouncy bassline-driven Clone The Clowns from DJ Lopis. The last track winds things down perfectly with the chilled out jazzy sounds of Prince Far I’s Foundation Stepper. Perhaps the most impressive thing about this CD is how well Bernstein has shown the connection between such a seemingly diverse bunch of tunes.

Although it’s difficult to use the phrase without sounding cliched these days, listening to this CD really is a journey through some of the body of electronic music that hasn’t yet bowed to commercialism. If you are at all interested in the more eclectic and funky side of dance music then this is essential listening.

Tim Fischer

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