Twenty electro-(etc.) tracks from Aaron Mader, also known as Lazerbeak. A little house, a little funk, a lot of 80s (though not too much 808) and nods to just about every other electronic trend that has swirled around in forever.

Lazerbeak Lava Bangers II (Doomtree)

Mostly uptempo, though. If you're hosting one of those "sexy Christmas" parties, this would serve as a fine soundtrack. Plenty to enjoy, and groove after groove to get people moving. Few vocals; just Mader's impeccable taste.

Something of a follow-up to his 2012 Lava Bangers, this set is more wide-ranging and confident. As it should be, given his success as a producer and beatmaster. I suppose this might also be seen as a (entirely appropriate) victory lap.

The timeless nature of the sound is a testament to his ability to blend ideas and sounds seamlessly. In the end, I think the reason for this massive set is to simply download pieces that have been swirling around in his mind. No matter the inspiration, there are enough grooves here to exhaust just about anyone. Drop the needle anywhere and prepare to move.

Jon Worley