Kompakt: Total 11

iTunes Review

Techno fans look forward to Kompakt’s annual Total compilations for good reason: some years are better than others, but these collections are always worth checking out. 2010’s Total 11 isn’t as striking as Total 10, but it’s still a must for fans of the Cologne-based label. Jazzy piano and strange, boozy vocals mark DJ Koze’s “Der Wallach,” a spare track animated by whooshes and great drum machine sounds. Ada & Heiko Voss are represented by the effective mechano-disco of “Walk Over;” It’s A Fine Line surprises with “Eins Fine Grind,” a cut that chugs along on a rockabilly rhythm; and the Field’s “Caroline” updates ‘70s Krautrock. Thomas Fehlmann’s “Wasser im Fluss (Soulphiction Mix)” starts off with the sound of water drops but later, drone and wah-wah create a suspenseful mood. Gui Boratto’s “Plié,” which features ex-Sepultura drummer Iggor Cavalera, displays a sense of tasteful grandeur that evokes post-rock. On “Power,” Pachanga Boys create a groove that never wears out its welcome, and Superpitcher’s “Lapdance,” with its loose, edgy vocals, might be the catchiest thing here.