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Rating: THE REVIEW
This guy exudes an effortless class, yet he doesn't let it weigh on you, staying almost in the shadows and allowing his talent to speak for itself. In 2003, his "DJ Kicks" debuted as part of the renowned mix album series released by K7, taking many by surprise. In reality, the Canadian Tiga had already built a solid underground reputation as a DJ and producer, and this album was his definitive consecration.
This "DJ Kicks" perfectly represents the kaleidoscopic imagination of this artist (yes, because even a DJ can be considered an artist...): 80s electro pop, 90s techno, acid house, and so much glamour, all expertly mixed with taste, skill, and elegance. The risk with compilations like this is to fall into tackiness or, even worse, the gaudy, but fortunately, the tracks selected by Tiga are highly refined and unique and have their own meaning even when listened to outside the club context. Featuring two of his stunning tracks ("Dying In Beauty" and "Man Hrdina"), confirming his prowess as a producer, and his remix of Felix Da Housecat's "Madame Hollywood" (remix called "Mister Hollywood", which is more than a remix but a cover as Tiga sings in pure Marc Almond style...); among others, I highlight the superb "The Biggest Fan" by the Martini Bros (electro pop in early Talk Talk style!), "Radio Jolly" by the Italian Jolly Music, and "You" by the also Italian duo Tutto Matto.
Beyond the quality of the tracks, what makes a difference is Tiga's technical skill, who, perfectly balancing effects, manages to craft an outstanding product. Highly recommended, even for those who have always viewed dance as something objectionable. A 4 and perhaps a little more, let's say a 4+, dedicated to anyone with preconceived notions.
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Summary by Bot
Tiga's DJ Kicks mix showcases his refined taste and technical mastery, blending electro pop, techno, and acid house effortlessly. The album highlights his unique productions and tasteful track choices. It balances underground credibility with broad appeal, recommended even for skeptics of dance music. Overall, a standout release in the DJ Kicks series.Tracklist Lyrics
01 Radio Jolly (Adult De-Funked remix) (02:25)
02 You're So Gangsta (Playgroup instrumental) (04:06)
03 Ich und Elaine (2raumwohnung club mix) (02:25)
04 The Big Fake (01:44)
05 You (Vocal version) (02:40)
06 Shemale (Blackstrobe remix) (03:11)
07 Deceptacon (DFA remix) (04:08)
08 ...So (02:25)
09 Dubby Disco (03:51)
10 Sacrifice (03:54)
11 Dying in Beauty (01:34)
12 Time Has Changed (01:58)
13 Devices (01:42)
14 Dirty Cash (Money Talks) (Red Zone mix) (02:40)
15 Rather Be (feat. Selfish in Bed) (01:34)
16 Shake a Leg (04:21)
17 The Unconditional Discipline of the Bastard Prince (01:13)
18 Lowrider (02:43)
19 Home Again (03:13)
20 Mispent Years (01:29)
21 Man Hrdina (DJ Kicks) (02:43)
22 Ikea (02:43)
23 Bang Bang Lover (dance mix) (02:43)
24 The Biggest Fan (Black Strobe mix) (04:39)
Tiga
Tiga is a Canadian DJ, producer, and label head from Montreal, central to electroclash and modern club music. He founded Turbo Recordings, broke out with singles like Sunglasses at Night and You Gonna Want Me, and released the albums Sexor (2006), Ciao! (2009), and No Fantasy Required (2016).03 Reviews
