Ministry of Sound Chillout Sessions XIII
As the year begins to wind up, the 13th Chillout Sessions album lets you wind back down into your happy place. The ethereal mix of alternative, folk/electro pop funk makes for a luxurious sound sure to keep you begging for more. Perfect as a soundtrack whilst driving, recovering on hung-over Sundays, lying beside the pool and generally transporting yourself to anywhere but here. The effortless, soulful mix has been carefully constructed with a variety of different genres that come together quite seamlessly.
For those of you who are expecting the usual from Ministry of Sound, prepare yourselves for something different. While Groove Armada and The Chemical Brothers represent the big house names, they stand alone against an array of new alternative artists, including Gypsy & the Cat, Smoove & Turrel and Ernest Ellis.
The seasons biggest indie hits are featured; Florence’s ‘Raise It Up’, Temper Trap’s ‘Sweet Disposition’ and Miike Snow’s ‘Animal’ – mixed in ways you have never heard them before. An unexpected but welcomed hip-hop sound comes from British Wonky Pop artist Dan Black with ‘Symphonies’ and Outkast’s own Big Boi in ‘Turns Me On’. Another important aspect not to be forgotten is the soulful sound from the likes of Space Invadas and Breakbot, these alternative elements adding to what is a truly successful and comprehensive mix.
Notable standout tracks include the haunting ‘Runaway’ from The National, Aria winner Washington’s divine lyrics in ‘Lover/Soldier’ and Jonathan Boulet’s touching and melodic, ‘A Community Service Announcement’. It is nice to see the strong presence of Australian artists on an international album, paying tribute to the talent down under.
Overall, this surprising album is a successful compilation of artists and genres from around the globe. It’s distinct two part nature means the first disc is home to down tempo, relaxing jams that calm and settle whilst the second disc possesses more colour with heavier beats to really soothe and ease, all while maintaining a consistent ethereal atmosphere.
There is something for everyone in the Ministry of Sound Chillout Sessions XIII, a purchase that is sure to help slow your heart rate and keep you relaxed …
Samantha Gee