Various Artists – Virtual Dreams II

Virtual Dreams II explores Japan’s distinctive ’90s ambient techno scene, a key part of early club culture and the global electronic landscape. While Virtual Dreams focused on Europe’s chill-out rooms, part two highlights Japanese labels like Sublime and Transonic, which embraced the worldwide techno scene while showcasing Japan’s inventive spirit. Palomatic’s “Flutter” is a cavernous, reverb-laced instrumental with pillowy rhythms and a magnetic three-note melody (see below). Yukihiro Fukutomi’s stellar “5 Blind Boys” skitters with bell-tones, a midrange synth drone, and what sounds like a sampled marimba. This bittersweet compilation marks the final project of Jamie Tiller, founder of Music From Memory, before his untimely passing. Co-compiler Eiji Taniguchi helped bring to life their vision of honoring Japan’s unique era and its hidden sonic worlds.

Check our favorite reissues and compilations of 2024: https://insheepsclothinghifi.com/in-sheeps-clothing-our-favorite-reissues-and-compilations-of-2024/