Mixed Live

by David JeffriesMoonshine's series of DJ sets captured with microphones in the audience and presented on stereo on the CD and 5.1 surround on accompanying DVDs has been interesting in concept but rather predictable as far as material. Choosing Gus Gus DJs Buckmaster and President Bongo for the newest volume of Mixed Live is an inspired and exciting choice, and the band uses the opportunity to be as subversive as possible. Recorded at Iceland's small Sirkus club ("the closest tropical bar to the Arctic Circle"), the DJs present a funky and smooth set of oddball house tunes with the common theme of freaky sex. It's amazing the Gus Gus DJs could find such a likeminded set of tunes, spin them so seamlessly, and get the licensing rights for them all. One of the biggest surprises is Captain Comatose's "Price Gun Baby," where the protagonist uses some cheeky double entendres to seduce a grocery store clerk. Gus Gus' own lustful "David" fits just right next to the lewd moments in Louie Austen's "Grab My Shaft" and Aaron Carl's "Switch." The overall naughtiness of the CD makes it a risky choice for a first-date soundtrack but it's a fantastic set that mixes the cerebral and the sexy. The DVD's 5.1 mix isn't as obvious as the screaming crowd that surrounds you on the series' trance releases, but mumbled conversations and clinking glasses are noticeable. Two Gus Gus videos and a surreal electronic press kit for the Attention album sweeten the deal.