Upside Down

iTunes Review

2012’s Upside Down brings together remixes of tracks by Jazzanova, a Berlin-based DJ/producer collective that’s been around since the mid-'90s. The album picks up where 2003’s Remixed left off. Ye:Solar’s take on “I Can See” features Brit vocalist Ben Westbeech backed by a swinging drummer, vibraphone interjections, and subtle horns. Midnight Marauders take on the same song and head straight to the dance floor. Westbeech’s vocals are broken up into shards, which are effectively used in an ever-morphing house workout. The Cologne outfit Motor City Drum Ensemble’s “Look at What You’re Doin' to Me,” with vocals by Phonte, is a funky wonder. Mr. Scruff’s “Boom Clicky Boom Klack” rattles with percussion and squelches that tickle and prod the cut’s fine singer. Another highlight is the delightfully discombobulated version of “Lucky Girl” by Neve Naïve (Jazzanova Live! band member Stefan Ulrich). Paul Randolph’s vocals are messed with—along with lots of other sounds—in delightful ways, and Alexa Voss’ smooth singing serves as an appealing foil.