Various Artists: Kono Loop Select 006

(Herald rating: * * * * )


Just in time for the season allegedly called summer, Wellington label Loop have delivered another hamper of stuff that swings stylishly between get-up and lie-down. They've raided across genres (pop, hip-hop, reggae, dub, drum'n'bass, electronica) and labels (Sugarlicks, Central, Bounce, and themselves, among others) assembling a 29-track package that feels a little earthier than past parts of the series.

That's especially with its emphasis on high-fibre offerings from the likes of Jahlicious, TrinityRoots, Tommy and the digital soul of Del Rey System.

It does acquire more voltage on the second disc with the likes of Pacific Heights, Rhian Sheehan, Audiosauce, and the aptly frantic Upbeats all helping to raise the ambient temperature.

Add a couple of acts thought missing in action - Dam Native and Emma Paki on the lush soul of Century Sky - and it's a compilation that shines brightly enough to require its own SPF rating.

Label: Loop