Nu-Clear Visions Of Israel 1

Compiled by Astrix, Nu-Clear Visions Of Israel 1 represents an attempt by TIP.World to profile the best of contemporary Israeli psytrance. The relationship between the Ibiza-based label and the warm shores at the other end of the Mediterranean is not new; TIP has had an ear for the exuberant Israeli style ever since 1995, when the original crew introduced Astral Projection to European audiences via Trust In Trance. What is this special fascination with Israeli trance all about? In their words, “Israel has the spirit: the top parties, the most parties, and the highest energies and smiles.” Some may disagree—Israeli psytrance is notoriously divisive amongst fans and critics online—but the focus of this review is the release itself. Let’s see if TIP.World’s high aspirations pan out.

Sub6 opens the compilation with Pounding, a killer track featuring tough synthetic rhythms, sophisticated effects, and a deadly drive. Alongside early releases such as To Experience, Teder Beseder (with Pixel), and El Novasion, Pounding established Sub6 as one of the most promising artists rising from the depths of the Israeli psytrance scene. No wonder—it’s a solid tune.

Astrix himself contributes Disco Valley, a seemingly formulaic piece of Israeli full-on psytrance. It sounds like nearly any other full-on track released over the last few years, but wait! It is immensely important to recognize that Astrix was instrumental in developing the template that so many others have beaten into the ground over the years. The sharp hooks, rolling bass lines, and snarling melodies take on new life when context is taken into consideration. Nice one!

Psysex (Udi Sternberg AKA DJ Goblin) takes us back with a modern remix of an old classic—Alien Cop—originally released on a vinyl single with Krembo Records in 1998. For me, this is the essence of psychedelic trance: plenty of layered hooks, memorable leads, killer builds, surprising twists, and solid production. Five years after the fact, Alien Cop still kicks ass.

Hujaboy provides insight into the darker side of Israeli trance with Flake. Enshrouded within eerie atmospheres and rippling layers of synthetic noises, this track simply oozes hallucinatory excess. It digs deep into the psyche—is this an attempt at brainwashing the listener? Substantial work.

Cosma passed away shortly before the release of this compilation. Some might say that we are more likely to elevate the work of the dead to greater heights than their art deserves, but I don’t feel this is the case with Avihen Livne. Cosma truly was the brightest star to rise from Israel in a long time, and his loss is unfortunate to say the least. As for Nonstop—the title track from his posthumous album of the same name—it’s simply brilliant, in my opinion. I am swept away any time I hear it. And that is all I shall say about this modern classic.

Xerox & Illumination released an album by the name of Temporary Insanity in 2004. Strangely enough, the track of the same name is not on the album—it is exclusive to this very compilation. I happen to think Xerox & Illumination are some of the most consistent Israeli producers but this song is merely mediocre. It will work well on the dance floor but doesn’t possess the depth many of the previous tracks exhibit.

Dynamic Force by Delirious is about as close to the Israeli norm as this compilation gets. Although it is well-produced and—as is the case with most full-on filler—sure to have made an impact on the floor, there really isn’t much to it.

PsyCraft’s blissed out morning anthem Top Gun blends sultry female vocals, a funky groove, and plenty of skillful guitar work. An intricate blend of acoustic and electric riffs manifests a tropical atmosphere that is surprisingly nuanced. Understandably, this song was licensed for release on no less than four other compilations—a rarity in the modern era. Another favourite.

The final track is something special; Sub6 provide a remix of Valirus by Astrix that can only be described as a progressive gem. Fat beats and deep bass weave a compelling tale as the deliciously slow and thoughtful arrangement develops. The melodies are obscure yet tangible, emphasizing the subtle strength of deliberate reserve. The final climax yields an excellent return that floats the compilation to a satisfying conclusion.

Nu-Clear Visions Of Israel 1 is an exceptional compilation that defies all the stereotypes. Astrix comprehensively covers some of the best and brightest full-on artists from Israel in 2003 without running across a single bad Hollywood movie sample. There are a few dull moments—more toward the latter half of the work—but this compilation is nonetheless a creative success. Cosma, Psysex, and Sub6 provide the best moments, and most of the rest manage to satisfy in their own way. This release might not appeal to listeners with no taste for full-on at all, but I would maintain that it is highly representative of what Israel has to offer in the high-energy department. Recommended for full-on fans.

Purchase Options

Saikosounds // Physical mail order shop based in Hong Kong.
Wirikuta // Physical mail order shop based in Austria.

More Information

Discogs // Detailed release data.
Isratrance // User-based review forum.

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