I've been following Worsel Strauss for some time now, and his music is oddly predictable: adventurous, experimental electronic music that has just enough shape to create stunning earworms. I can never remember the names of his noodly melodies, but they sure do stick to me.

Worsel Strauss & Schani Wolf Eigenwert (ANALOGmusiq)

This set is no different, except for the fact that there's enough structure on some of these pieces to actually imagine them being played on the dance floor. The creativity hasn't been stifled a bit, but the beats are just that much more conventional to provide greater access.

I'm sure some might not be pleased with that development, but I look at it as another level of fun. Music that moves your mind and your ass is always at a premium, and this set does plenty of both.

The loopy, almost demented techno feel also adds to the enjoyment. It's easy to hear how much fun was had creating these songs: Almost as much as it is listening to them. This set is very much grounded in the real world, one where it's okay to smile now and then. A real breath of fresh air.

Jon Worley