Album Review: Cocoon Compilation 'O'

It’s that time of year and world renowned techno institution Cocoon are back again with another alphabetically themed compilation release on their label and this August will see the series reach letter ‘O’.

This edition of the alphabetical series plays host to a whole spectrum of different sounds from thumping beats, visits to both acid and techno right through to mesmerising euphoria which really encapsulates what Cocoon and Monday nights at Amnesia are all about.

The compilation opens up with ‘The Messenger’ (above) which is brought to us by German producer Roland M. Dill. The track itself is of epic proportions which emits a classical vibe; not surprising based upon Roland’s musical upbringing of piano, trombone and alphorn training.

Tripmastaz’s ‘Grindin’ and Dana Ruh’s ‘If You Don’t Know A Name’ offer up deep minimal house vibes and a grooving tech-house track with a hypnotizing bassline respectively.

The compilation picks up momentum with track four ‘Jungle Book’ from German duo youANDme epitomising the Cocoon vibe that so many have come to expect from the label and club nights. Tom Demac’s monstrous track ‘Axel Foley’ (below) really puts O into full swing with its meddling bassline and glimpses of subtle euphoria.

Reset Robot provide ‘She’ which is without doubt the most inspiring and emotionally engaging track of the 12. The deep lumbering bass along with the exquisite layering of the synth pattern has won us over.

Other highlights from the compilation would have to be the accelerating beats of Lee Van Dowski’s powerful track ‘WWW’ and Steve Parker’s minimal masterpiece ‘Brian’s Lullaby’ which both do the release proud.

O is rounded off by Italian underground producer and DJ Luca Ballerini beautifully with ‘Hanami (Armonia Rosa)’ which could gift any crowd and DJ with the perfect closing track to the night.

Despite many of the tracks being perfectly suited towards a night within a club – they are also hold their own when listening day-to-day. The quality is there to be heard and 'O' is a true representation of Cocoon as a label, party and illustrious clubbing brand. 

Cocoon Compilation O is out on Monday 31st August.

You can be part of the Cocoon Ibiza action at Amnesia every Monday. 

Cocoon also comes to Liverpool this Halloween for a showcase at the abandoned mental asylum in Newsham Park.