reviewed: Moodmusic pays homage to the past by moving into the future with “XV”

German tech/deep house label Moodmusic could’ve taken the safe route and celebrated their 15-year anniversary by dusting off some gems from their past. With a rich catalogue that includes artists like Freestyle Man, Martin Dawson, and label boss Sasse, that would’ve been more than acceptable. Instead, the label is commemorating its milestone with the release of XV, a solid collection of 15 exclusive new tracks from their talented stable of producers.

XV kicks off with “Jena,” a collaboration between Sasse and dynamic producer/remixer Henrik Schwarz. It features trippy percussion effects and strobing piano lines that swirl around a deep, rock-steady groove. The Geelong Breakfast Club contributes “Bank of Hours,” a brooding, atmospheric piece that will open any DJ set with a high-drama factor. Alex Maier’s “Stolen Phone” is a sexy, bubbling acid track, which exudes positive energy juxtaposed with a surprising deepness.

Dave DK delivers the compilation’s finest moment in the form of “Byway.” The latest in a long line of lush, melodic tempos from the talented German producer, dating back to his criminally underrated 2007 artist album, Lights and Colours. Craig Torrance and Finn Casey bring some twisted funk on “Your Mind,” and Nils Penner closes out the compilation with some fierce Funk D’Void-inspired techno on “Against the Wind.”

With XV, Moodmusic recognizes their time-tested veterans while shining a light on some lesser known up-and-comers. The result? An eclectic celebration of the label's past by moving into the future.

XV is now available on iTunes.