Freestyle review: Hi-Fidelity Lounge

V.A. Hi-Fidelity Lounge Guidance		We have come to expect high quality music from the Chicago based label Guidance ever since their first release but what this label has been releasing lately is absolutely stunning. Just when you think Guidance has reached its top, there they are with fresh releases that blow your ears. With this new compilation, Guidance records goes head to head with the "More space to dance" compilation on Alola for the title of best compilation of '99. Now, what's Hi-Fidelity Lounge ? Well, it's the slickest and smokiest acidjazz-funk-groove compilation on planet earth. Flywheel with "Slowdown" and Louise Vertigo with "Ou est la femme" immediately set the mood. A super warm and heavy bass sound on a relaxing tempo. Every musical ingredient balanced just right without any sharp edges. Marschmellows and "SoulPower" as well as AtJazz and "Wild Sea" go a little more uptempo for a groove with the first featuring an attracting bassguitar and a touch of garage, the latter nice atmospheric synths. Guidance goes Europe as well, with a selection from Extended Spirit and "Solid Water", the now well known and already classic Rainer Truby remix. Another noteworthy track is the one from Bobby Hughes and "Seasons".. A jazzfusion track with heave sixties influence and a remarkable female voice saying "hey wake up". Finally, the Guidance compilation closes with one of Guidance own most remarkable artists of this moment : Paul Hunter! Paul Hunter and "Paul's Pal" reminds us a little of an old Aretha Franklin track, it's acid jazz at its best. We are already eager for his forthcoming album ! All in all, the Hi-Fidelity Lounge is 60 minutes of pure musical pleasure! ez dec/99