VA - Chilled Ibiza Gold [3CD Set] (2004)

This is another track-packed three-disc box set from the Warner Dance label destined to go straight into the classic section. Chilled Ibiza Gold contains a mouth-watering selection of 50 sensual songs. Thankfully, this is not just another chill-out album filled with over-played, irritating hype like many other collections. In fact, the title is somewhat misleading as there are some altogether upbeat tunes in this collection that help keep the tempo flowing and ensure the chill-out doesn't turn into tune-out.

There are, of course, some great classics in this collection that music lovers will know well. Leftfield, Morcheeba and FC/Kahuna, for instance, all get airtime here. The album really comes into its own, however, with its less mainstream artists; DJ Food, Coldcut and Nightmares on Wax add some hip-hop beats to keep the music moving; the Herbaliser's overtly sexual "The Sensual Woman" and Goldfrapp's drippingly sultry "Black Cherry" help to incorporate that sexy element all good chill-out albums require; then there are some truly inspired gems too, such as the fantastically floaty "Falling" from Julee Cruise.

The production is tight, the mixes are smooth and, importantly, the track selection is spot on. The music just keeps rolling in like gentle waves lapping against the shoreline, never crashing and never completely subsiding. There's really something here for everyone and it's all put together very neatly. You'll be playing this one for many years to come.

review by: Jarrod Rendle